For commercial operators contemplating newbuilds, the QSC8.3 will begin production in April of this year with two power levels. The QSC8.3-540 (540Mhp @2,600rpm) will be available in both GS (Government Service) and HO (High Output) ratings while the QSC8.3-490 delivers 490Mhp at 2,500rpm in INT (Intermittent) specification.

For those requiring fewer horsepower and more torque, the QSL9 series is now in production with the QSL9-405 in MCD (Medium Continuous Duty) specification delivering 405Mhp at 2,100rpm, the QSL9-330 HD (Heavy Duty) producing 330 Mhp at only 1,800rpm, and the QSL-9-285 offering a CD (Continuous Duty) rated 285 Mhp also at 1,800rpm.

Central to all Quantum Series engines is a new high-pressure common rail fuel system which improves fuel economy, reduces idle noise and virtually eliminates smoke and odour. The system results in significantly reduced white smoke at start-up without the aid of air heaters.

The QSC8.3-540 engine offers a 15% increase in rated power and a 17% increase in cruise power over CMD's existing 480C-E. The combination of a wastegated turbocharger, a 24 valve cylinder head and a high efficiency aftercooler will allow a craft to accelerate quickly onto plane as the common rail fuel system delivers more torque to the propeller without increased smoke.

Genuine consideration has been made for installers whether for newbuilds or repowers.

Raising the turbocharger reduces the complexity of exhaust connections while handed fuel and lube filter locations are easily accessible. Front engine mounts have been redesigned allowing multiple location choices for a QSC package size that is very close to the 480C-E and weighs only 57kg more.

The aftercooler has been relocated higher on the engine allowing easier access to the zincs and aftercooler service.

Expectations of a longer engine life were a major objective during the development of the QSC engine. This is evident from the use of a gallery cooled alloy piston, a high temperature alloy cylinder head, a strengthened block to handle higher cylinder pressures, high temperature intake and exhaust valves and valve seats, a fuel cooled engine control module (ECM) protected from overheating, a water in fuel sensor that ties directly to the engine protection system, a low coolant alarm that will notify the operator of an engine coolant leak, and a more efficient aftercooler which reduces intake manifold temperatures increasing power cylinder life. Stainless steel tubes have been utilised in most of the sea water plumbing instead of hoses and sea water leaks have been minimised by using 'O' seal connections in many of the sea water plumbing connections instead of hose clamps.

All new Quantum Series engines, including the QSC, will use the SmartCraft multiplexing control and communications system.

Transfer of information between the engine and vessel sensors to the helm is accomplished over a datalink. This significantly reduces the amount of wiring in the engine room and at the helm, easing installation and increasing reliability.

The SmartCraft system combines inputs from the engine with those of other boat systems such as fuel tank levels, GPS, steering (rudder position), water depth and temperature.

SmartCraft constantly monitors engine performance, providing instant diagnostics and operations data at the helm.

MJ Information No: 19016