Cummins displays its defence capabilities

Electrical switching & drive systems & components

4th Quarter 2012 Electrical switching & drive systems & components

Guests at the 2012 Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo were introduced to the benefits of a range of advanced military grade engines that were displayed by the South African division of Cummins – a leader in the manufacture, sales and servicing of diesel engines and related technology.

The AAD Expo, which was hosted at the Waterkloof Airforce Base in Centurion from September 19 to September 23, 2012, is recognised as the largest exhibition of air, sea and land capabilities on the African continent and one of the world´s premier aerospace and defence events.

Cummins SA relationship manager Ian Stoutjesdyk points out that the company displayed its range ISF 2.8 and ISB 6.7 engines not only to show support for local defence OEMs, but also to display its advanced capabilities. “The technologically advanced engines have proven to be popular in the local market, especially among troop carrier manufacturers,” he says.

Advanced thermal engineering has made the ISF engine capable of running at higher operating temperatures, thereby reducing the size and cost of the vehicle cooling package. The superior analysis LED design makes the ISF range the lightest and strongest engine in its displacement class, while the modular architecture enables easy upgrade for the future.

Despite sophisticated protection and enhanced firepower, armoured fighting vehicles and personnel carriers still need to rely on speed and concealment to ensure survivability. He adds that the Cummins range of highly advanced engines provides outstanding power density for higher speeds, with exceptional fuel efficiency and sustained operations. To meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions with clean combustion techniques, Cummins engines reduce both thermal and visible smoke signature to low levels, which ultimately assists in preventing detection.

Stoutjesdyk notes that the ISF range of engines is available in 2,8 litre and 3,8 litre models, with key features including a stiffer block; composite oil pan and valve cover; and a rear gear train which results in lower noise, with reduced harshness and vibration. In addition the high pressure common rail system works at extremely high pressure and provides precise control of the combustion process, while in-house Wastegated Turbocharger technology provides excellent performance across the rpm range and an improved response through higher low-end torque.

To help unleash the full driving potential of the vehicle, the Cummins electronic technology reaches out from beyond the engine to fully integrate with other electronically controlled systems on the powertrain. “While a new generation of military vehicles may offer improved operational capabilities, military forces are also looking at cost-effective methods of upgrading existing vehicles,” he continues.

Stoutjesdyk believes that the AAD exhibition was an overwhelming success for Cummins SA, and he is optimistic of the future outlook for the company in the defence sector. “Cummins has been a tried and trusted name in the global defence industry and we are currently in talks with the South African military to expand our presence locally through the repowering of the fleet of Ratel infantry fighting vehicles,” he concludes.

For more information contact Ian Stoutjesdyk, Cummins SA, +27 (0)11 421 9906, [email protected], www.cummins.com

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Cummins displays its defence capabilities

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