CCEC KTA38 Generator Engine — V12 38L Heavy-Duty Diesel Power, 560–1220 kW
23 ratings for 50 Hz / 60 Hz generator sets · Made by Chongqing Cummins (CCEC)
The CCEC KTA38 series is a V12, 38-liter heavy-duty diesel engine purpose-built for generator drive applications. Manufactured by Chongqing Cummins Engine Company (CCEC), it covers a prime power range of 560 kW to 1,220 kW across 23 distinct ratings, serving both 50 Hz (1,500 RPM) and 60 Hz (1,800 RPM) markets. With its proven Cummins PT fuel system, robust cast-iron block, and replaceable wet cylinder liners, the KTA38 has earned a reputation for dependable performance in the world’s most demanding power generation environments — from data centers and hospitals to mining sites and offshore platforms.
KTA38 Engine Specifications at a Glance
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4-Cycle, 60° Vee, 12-Cylinder Diesel |
| Displacement | 37.8 L (2,300 in³) |
| Bore × Stroke | 159 mm × 159 mm (6.25 in × 6.25 in) |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged + Aftercooled (TA) or Air-to-Air (TAA) |
| Fuel System | Cummins PT Direct Injection with STC |
| Governor | Cummins EFC Electronic Governor |
| Rated Speed | 1,500 RPM (50 Hz) / 1,800 RPM (60 Hz) |
| Prime Power Range | 560 – 1,220 kW |
| Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 – 14.7:1 (model-dependent) |
| Dry Weight (Engine Only) | Approx. 3,600 – 4,540 kg |
| Engine Oil Capacity (Total System) | 135 L |
| Coolant Capacity (Engine Only) | 118 L |
| Firing Order | R1-L6-R5-L2-R3-L4-R6-L1-R2-L5-R4-L3 |
| Emission Standard | Euro II / CPCB II |
Complete Model Lineup — 23 Ratings
50 Hz Models (1,500 RPM)
Fifteen ratings cover prime power from 560 kW to 1,195 kW, suitable for generator sets from approximately 700 kVA to 1,500 kVA.
| Model | Prime Power | Aspiration | Comp. Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| KT38-G | 560 kW (750 HP) | Turbocharged | — |
| KTA38-G1E | 605 kW (811 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G1 | 634 kW (850 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G1B | 634 kW (850 HP) | TA | — |
| KT38-GA | 647 kW (867 HP) | Turbocharged | — |
| KTA38-G2 | 664 kW (890 HP) | TA | 14.5:1 |
| KTA38-G2B | 711 kW (953 HP) | TA | 14.5:1 |
| KTA38-G2E | 715 kW (959 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G5E | 825 kW (1,106 HP) | TA | 14.7:1 |
| KTA38-G5 | 881 kW (1,180 HP) | TA | 13.9:1 |
| KTA38-G2A | 895 kW (1,200 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G7E | 935 kW (1,254 HP) | TA | 14.7:1 |
| KTA38-G9E | 990 kW (1,328 HP) | TA | 14.7:1 |
| KTA38-G9 | 1,195 kW (1,602 HP) | TA (Air-Air) | 14.5:1 |
| KTAA38-G9A | 1,195 kW (1,602 HP) | TAA (Air-Air) | 13.0:1 |
60 Hz Models (1,800 RPM)
Eight ratings deliver prime power from 679 kW to 1,220 kW, supporting generator sets from approximately 850 kVA to 1,500 kVA.
| Model | Prime Power | Aspiration | Comp. Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| KT38-G | 679 kW (910 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G1 | 769 kW (1,030 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G2 | 809 kW (1,085 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G2B | 830 kW (1,112 HP) | TA | 14.5:1 |
| KTA38-G1B | 847 kW (1,135 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G2A | 1,007 kW (1,350 HP) | TA | — |
| KTA38-G4 | 1,007 kW (1,350 HP) | TA | 13.9:1 |
| KTA38-G9 | 1,220 kW (1,635 HP) | TA | 14.5:1 |
Engine Architecture — Built for Continuous Heavy Load
V12 Cylinder Block
The 60° Vee configuration delivers exceptional power density and inherent balance. High-strength alloy cast iron provides rigidity, while cross-bolted main bearing caps resist the torsional forces of 12 cylinders firing under load. Wet, replaceable cylinder liners simplify overhaul — no block boring required.
Individual Cylinder Heads
One head per cylinder (12 total) means faster service and lower repair cost. Each head features four valves for optimized air-fuel mixing, improving both fuel economy and emissions. A single camshaft actuates valves and PT injectors with precision.
Cummins PT Fuel System with STC
Like its smaller sibling the KTA19, the KTA38 uses Cummins’ legendary PT (Pressure-Time) fuel system — a mechanically governed design with no high-pressure external fuel lines. Fuel is delivered at low pressure through internal galleries, and injection pressure (up to 120 MPa / 1,200 bar) is generated by the camshaft-driven injector itself. The integrated STC (Step Timing Control) adjusts injection timing based on load and ambient temperature, improving cold-start performance and reducing light-load fuel consumption.
For generator set operators in emerging markets, the PT system’s tolerance for variable fuel quality is a major advantage over electronic common-rail engines that demand ultra-low-sulfur diesel and sophisticated filtration.
Dual-Loop Cooling
The KTA38 employs two independent coolant circuits — one for the engine jacket and one for the aftercooler — each with its own water pump. This design delivers denser intake charge for maximum power while keeping engine metal temperatures consistent. A gear-driven water pump and high-flow channel design ensure effective heat rejection even under continuous full-load operation.
Lubrication System
The 135-liter total oil capacity includes a full-flow filter plus a secondary bypass filter (Fleetguard LF3000) that continuously removes microscopic soot particles the full-flow filter cannot catch. This dual-stage filtration significantly extends oil life and reduces wear on bearings, rings, and cylinder liners. Oil consumption is approximately 0.5 g/kW·h under normal operating conditions.
Power Output & Fuel Consumption
Fuel consumption at rated load averages 200–210 g/kW·h across the series. In practical terms, this translates to approximately:
| Representative Model | Rated kW | Est. Fuel Consumption at Full Load |
|---|---|---|
| KTA38-G2 (50 Hz) | 664 kW | ~164 L/hr |
| KTA38-G2A (50 Hz) | 895 kW | ~225 L/hr |
| KTA38-G5 (50 Hz) | 881 kW | ~217 L/hr |
| KTA38-G9 (50 Hz) | 1,195 kW | ~295 L/hr |
| KTA38-G9-B (60 Hz) | 1,220 kW | ~301 L/hr |
Fuel consumption varies with alternator efficiency, ambient conditions, altitude, and load factor. Figures above are engine-side estimates; actual genset consumption may be 3–5% higher due to alternator and cooling fan losses. The 225 L/hr figure for KTA38-G2A is from published CCEC data; other figures are derived from the 200–210 g/kW·h brake-specific fuel consumption range.
Applications — Where KTA38 Engines Work
Data Centers
1,000–1,500 kVA standby units powered by KTA38-G9 engines provide critical backup for server farms where downtime costs thousands of dollars per minute. The V12’s smooth power delivery and fast load acceptance meet ISO 8528 G3 transient response requirements.
Hospitals & Healthcare
KTA38-powered silent-canopy gensets deliver reliable emergency power for operating rooms, ICU equipment, and life-support systems. Low fuel consumption and long service intervals minimize operational cost for facilities that must test generators monthly.
Mining & Quarry
Open-type and trailer-mounted KTA38 generator sets provide prime power for excavators, conveyors, and processing plants in remote locations where grid power is unavailable. The engine’s tolerance for harsh dust and high-altitude operation is well proven.
Oil & Gas
From onshore drilling rigs to gas processing plants, KTA38 engines deliver continuous power in hazardous and remote environments. Salt-spray-resistant radiators and heavy-duty air filtration options support coastal and desert deployments.
Generator Set Packaging Options
BLSH supplies KTA38 engines as standalone power units or integrated into complete generator sets with the following configurations:
| Package Type | Typical Use | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Open Type | Plant room / permanent installation | Steel base frame, anti-vibration mounts, radiator, exhaust silencer, control panel |
| Silent / Sound-Attenuated | Urban, hospital, residential | Acoustic enclosure achieving 65–75 dB(A) at 7 m, weatherproof |
| Containerized / Super-Silent | Data center, rental fleet | 20 ft or 40 ft container, integrated fuel tank, exhaust treatment, 60–70 dB(A) |
| Mobile Trailer | Mining, construction, events | Road-towable trailer, quick-connect terminals, rugged enclosure |
Alternator Pairing & Control
KTA38 engines are commonly paired with Stamford, Leroy-Somer, Mecc Alte, or Marathon alternators rated from 700 kVA to 1,500 kVA. Typical pairings include:
| Engine Model | Freq. | Typical Alternator | Genset kVA |
|---|---|---|---|
| KTA38-G2 | 50 Hz | Stamford S5L1D-H41 | ~800 kVA |
| KTA38-G2B | 50 Hz | FDK / Stamford PI series | ~880 kVA |
| KTA38-G5 / G2A | 50 Hz | Stamford S6L1D series | ~1,100 kVA |
| KTA38-G9 | 50 Hz | Stamford S6L1D-F41 / HCI634 | ~1,250–1,500 kVA |
| KTA38-G9-B | 60 Hz | Stamford / Leroy-Somer 1,500 kVA class | ~1,500 kVA |
The Cummins EFC (Electronic Fuel Control) governor provides isochronous speed regulation with a steady-state stability of ±0.25%, meeting ISO 8528 Class G2 as standard and G3 with optional tuning — suitable for UPS systems, VFD-driven equipment, and sensitive electronics. All KTA38 gensets support paralleling via synchronization panels for multi-engine power plants or grid-tie operation.
KTA19 vs KTA38 — Which Do You Need?
| Parameter | KTA19-G Series | KTA38-G Series |
|---|---|---|
| Configuration | Inline 6-Cylinder | 60° V12 |
| Displacement | 18.9 L | 37.8 L |
| Prime Power Range | 336 – 664 kW | 560 – 1,220 kW |
| Typical Genset Range | 400 – 800 kVA | 700 – 1,500 kVA |
| Dry Weight | ~1,633 – 1,905 kg | ~3,600 – 4,540 kg |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 36.7 L | 135 L |
| Fuel System | PT + STC | PT + STC |
| Best For | Mid-size commercial, light industrial | Data centers, mining, hospitals, O&G |
If your project falls in the overlap zone (600–800 kVA), the KTA19 offers a smaller footprint and lower maintenance cost per service event, while the KTA38 runs at a lower BMEP and typically achieves longer overhaul intervals. Contact our engineering team for a lifecycle cost comparison tailored to your duty cycle.
Maintenance & Service Intervals
| Service Item | Interval | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil & Filters | 250 – 500 hours | 135 L oil capacity; dual-stage filtration |
| Fuel Filters | 500 hours | Coalescer + water separator recommended |
| Valve Lash Adjustment | 4,000 hours | Check injectors simultaneously |
| Coolant Service | 4,000 hours / 2 years | SCA supplement or fully formulated OAT coolant |
| Air Filter | As indicated by restriction gauge | Heavy-duty or plateau filters available |
| Major Overhaul | 12,000 – 15,000+ hours | Depends on load factor, ambient, maintenance quality |
Wet cylinder liners and individual cylinder heads mean in-frame overhauls are straightforward — the engine does not need to be removed from the genset base for a top-end rebuild. BLSH supplies genuine CCEC and Fleetguard replacement parts, with common wear items stocked for immediate shipment.
Genuine CCEC Parts & Global Support
Every KTA38 engine from BLSH is built by Chongqing Cummins Engine Co., Ltd. to the same global Cummins quality standards. We provide:
- Factory-tested engines with CPL and performance curve documentation
- 1-year / 1,000-hour warranty against manufacturing defects
- Full spare parts support — filters, injectors, turbochargers, gaskets, and overhaul kits shipped worldwide
- Installation and commissioning guidance, including wiring diagrams, cooling system schematics, and control panel configuration
- Browse our Cummins engine parts catalog for common replacement components.
Related CCEC Generator Engine Series
Explore the full range of CCEC generator drive engines to find the right displacement for your project:
- CCEC Cummins Generator Engines — All Series
- KTA19 Generator Engines — 336–664 kW, 6-cylinder, 400–800 kVA gensets
- All CCEC Cummins Engines — including marine, automotive, and generator drive
- Cummins Engine Parts & Spares
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the power range of the CCEC KTA38 generator engine?
The KTA38 series covers prime power from 560 kW to 1,220 kW across 23 ratings. At 50 Hz (1,500 RPM), the range is 560–1,195 kW; at 60 Hz (1,800 RPM), it is 679–1,220 kW. This corresponds to generator sets from approximately 700 kVA to 1,500 kVA.
What is the difference between KTA38 and KTAA38?
KTA denotes turbocharged with a water-to-air aftercooler (jacket-water cooled charge air). KTAA denotes turbocharged with an air-to-air aftercooler, which uses ambient air to cool the intake charge directly. The KTAA38-G9A uses air-to-air cooling and a different compression ratio (13.0:1 vs 14.5:1 on the KTA38-G9), making it suitable for specific high-ambient or emission-sensitive applications.
What alternators are compatible with KTA38 engines?
KTA38 engines pair with brushless, self-excited alternators from Stamford, Leroy-Somer, Mecc Alte, and Marathon in the 700–1,500 kVA range. Common models include Stamford S5L1D-H41 (for KTA38-G2), S6L1D series (for G5/G2A), and HCI634/LVI634 series (for KTA38-G9). All are single-bearing, rotating-field designs with Class H insulation and IP23 protection as standard.
How much fuel does a KTA38 generator consume?
At full rated load, fuel consumption ranges from approximately 164 L/hr (KTA38-G2 at 664 kW) to 301 L/hr (KTA38-G9-B at 1,220 kW), based on a specific fuel consumption of roughly 200–210 g/kW·h. Actual consumption depends on alternator efficiency, load factor, altitude, ambient temperature, and fuel quality.
What is the major overhaul interval for a KTA38?
With proper maintenance and good fuel quality, the KTA38 typically reaches 12,000–15,000+ hours before a major overhaul. The wet replaceable cylinder liners and individual cylinder heads allow in-frame rebuilds without removing the engine from the genset base, reducing downtime and overhaul cost.
What emission standards does the KTA38 meet?
The CCEC KTA38 meets Euro II and equivalent CPCB II emission standards. The “-E” suffix models (G1E, G2E, G5E, G7E, G9E) feature optimized tuning for specific regional emission requirements. For stricter standards such as EU Stage IIIA or EPA Tier 3, the electronically controlled QSK38 or QSK50 series should be considered.
Can multiple KTA38 generator sets run in parallel?
Yes. The EFC electronic governor supports isochronous load sharing, and KTA38 gensets can be configured for multi-engine paralleling with synchronization panels. This is common in data centers, hospitals, and industrial plants requiring N+1 redundancy or scalable power capacity.
What is the difference between KTA19 and KTA38 generator engines?
The KTA19 is an inline 6-cylinder, 18.9-liter engine producing 336–664 kW (400–800 kVA gensets). The KTA38 is a V12, 37.8-liter engine producing 560–1,220 kW (700–1,500 kVA gensets). Both share the same Cummins PT fuel system architecture and STC, but the KTA38’s larger displacement gives it lower BMEP, longer overhaul intervals, and higher load acceptance — at the cost of a larger footprint and higher per-service maintenance volume.
Official Resources
- Cummins Genuine Parts Catalog — look up KTA38 part numbers by CPL or engine serial number
