Rolls-Royce introduces 50 Hz mtu Series 1600 gen set

Rolls-Royce Series 1600 gen set (Photo: Rolls-Royce)

Rolls-Royce is to launch an upgraded 50 Hz version of the mtu Series 1600 gen set platform. This follows on from the introduction of the related 60 Hz model in 2023.

“At the heart of these gensets is the proven mtu Series 1600 engine, which we have further developed in terms of performance, flexibility, life-cycle costs and sustainability for the new generation, and with which we are setting new standards,” said Tobias Ostermaier, president of the Stationary Power Solutions division at Rolls-Royce Power Systems.

He continued: “Serving a wide variety of applications in the lower end of our power range, the Series 1600 will expand our strong position in the power generation market, as part of our growth strategy to support the world’s power needs.”

The 12V1600 Gx1 engine is said to have the highest power density in its class. It offers ‘outstanding’ load acceptance and reliability. The engine can deliver nearly full power at high ambient temperatures and in high humidity locations.

The new platform is said to produce up to 40% more power than the model it replaces. This translates to an electrical output of between 590 and 996 kVA.

Mtu Series 1600 gen sets are approved for synthetic diesel fuels that meet the EN 15940 standard, such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). Using HVO can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 90%.

Power at this level makes the gen sets suitable for a range of applications, including data centres, healthcare facilities, commercial buildings and microgrid installations.

All new mtu Series 1600 engines are compliant with Performance Class G3 standards and exceed the requirements of ISO 8528 Power Ratings for emergency standby power and prime power.

In addition, the engines and gen sets meet the strict reliability requirements for Tier 3 and Tier 4 data centres, making them a suitable solution for smaller data centres in the edge data centre market.