Compound 110 on test in US
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• Cummins looks set to launch a full-production turbo compound version of its popular L10 straight-six diesel in the US before the end of 1991, though its arrival date in the UK remains a mystery.
The turbo compounding system uses energy escaping through the exhaust pipe which is harnessed and converted into mechanical drive at the flywheel via a second turbine mounted downstream of the main turbocharger.
According to the US engine builder, pre-production 10-litre turbo compound engines are already running in trials with a number of operators based close to its main plant at Columbus, Indiana. The engines have power ratings around the "high 300hp mark" — although Commercial Motor understands that the turbo compound L10 engine is capable of being tuned to a higher rating close to 298kW (400hp).
Cummins UK director of automotive marketing, Rick Kleine, says that the turbo compound units are intended for long-haul operators running at sustained high speeds who would otherwise be specifying a bigger Cummins engine. By using the turbo compound L10 instead of the 14-litre Super E, weight savings of up to 225kg can be achieved.
Full production release of the engine is expected near the end of this year.
Few details are available on the turbo compound engine. It has Cummins' CELECT electronic fuel injection system (CM 8-14 November) as standard and maximum torque ratings are around 1,760Nm (1,3001bft). Engine response, particularly in mid-range acceleration, is believed to be noticeably superior to that of existing charge-cooled L10 engines.
Last month Scania revealed its own 299kW (401hp) turbo compound engine (CM 29 November-5 December) based on its 11-litre, straight-six block. Like the Cummins L10 turbo compound engine, it features electronic fuel injection, but in the form of Bosch's EDC. However, Scania's 113 400 turbo compound tractive unit will not be available in the UK before 1992.
O Cummins Engine Company is firmly defending its leading British market share with more agressive sales and improved products, according to Ken Sanford, Cummins' newly appointed UK managing director. Among new engines known to be in the pipeline is a 261kW (350hp) version of the charge-cooled L10.