IN LINE with its reputation for offering innovative power solutions, Caterpillar and its local dealer Mohamed Abdulrahman Al Bahar have recently launched the new Cat C175-20 diesel generator set in the region.

The 20-cylinder C175 produces the largest power output of any single high-speed diesel generator set available on the market, producing up to 4 MW of power, and has already been selected for several multiple megawatt installations in the region, according to a spokesman for Caterpillar.

“An extension of the industry-proven C175-16, the C175-20 offers the same class-leading efficiency delivered from a high power density that generates more power from a smaller footprint than competing generator sets,” he says. “This high power density is a key benefit for standby power at large, mission-critical installations where reliability, durability and dependability are essential, such as data centres, hospitals, airports, and black start applications for utilities.”

A single 4 MW C175-20 represents a 55 per cent reduction in footprint when compared with two high-speed 2 MW 3516B generator sets, significantly reducing installation costs and freeing up floor space for other uses.

“Recognising the harsh conditions and critical need for reliable power faced by customers in the region, Caterpillar stands behind the C175-20 and every other diesel standby generator set above 1 MW with extended four-year platinum coverage available in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Russia and CIS that covers 100 per cent of parts and labour and helps customers avoid unexpected costs for unscheduled repairs,” says the spokesman.

The C175-20 package is built on the proven C175 platform, which has demonstrated its reliability in Cat machines and other power generation applications. The C175-20 is built with the same core engine parts as the C175-16, which has been in use across the globe in a variety of applications since 2008. Because it is built with the same basic engine design and to the same engineering targets, the C175-20 is as reliable and durable as the current C175-16 generator set.

For a data centre, using the 4 MW C175-20 can reduce the ancillary equipment required, particularly when integrated with Cat switchgear, automatic transfer switching (ATS) and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) products, resulting in a more cost-effective installation,” the spokesman continues. “The larger single unit allows hospitals to carry larger life safety loads. In addition to large, mission-critical applications, the C175-20 generator set can be used for peak shaving/grid stiffening as the sole source of power to remote communities and as prime power for remote work sites.”

Certified to EPA (Environment Protection Agency) stationary emergency Tier 2 emissions limits, the C175-20 is a sustainable option for power generation. Cat after-treatment solutions are available to further reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx), hydrocarbons and particulate matter.

The C175-20 reduces owning and operating costs by extending maintenance intervals. For prime and continuous power generator sets, the oil change interval is 600 hours. For standby generator sets, a three-year oil change interval option is available. The first major overhaul for the C175-20 will be at 22,000 hours for the 60 Hz units and at 27,000 hours for the 50 Hz units.

Available with a full range of factory designed and tested attachments, the C175-20 offers flexible packaging options for easy installation and optimal performance. To back this expanded line of generator sets, Cat dealers and technicians are factory trained to support the C175 generator sets, switchgear, UPS, and ATS products.

The new Cat C175-20 was displayed for the first time early this year at the Middle East Electricity. Held in Dubai, UAE, the event is one of the region’s largest trade shows dedicated to the power sector.

Founded in 1937, Mohamed Abdulrahman Al Bahar offers customised solutions for power system requirements; high spare parts availability; and best-in-class service support that includes workshop and field service, fabrication, maintenance and repair contracts, and training. Together, Al Bahar and Caterpillar meet project engineers’ needs to properly configure, install and operate complete, integrated power solutions for large-scale infrastructure projects – utilities, hospitals, airports, rail stations – as well as other applications.

Caterpillar is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. Supported by its global dealer network, the company offer total power solutions, which include a comprehensive line-up of generator sets from 10 kW to 14,000 kW, UPS systems, containerised and critical power modules, controls, and switchgear to meet any and every power need.