Cummins has launched the high horsepower QSK95 95 litre engine for mining, heralding it as the most powerful engine ever to be developed for ultra-class trucks.

Already in use in the marine and rail sectors, the mining engine comes with 2,837-3,281 kW of power (two versions – the higher rated QSK95 4400 and the QSK95 3800), 15,245-17,653 Nm of torque and is available in US EPA Tier 2 and Tier 4 Final configurations.

“The QSK95 offers class-leading cost of production and performance, with the availability that comes with legendary Cummins reliability,” the company said. Cummins has sold more than 1,200 of these engines across 36 different countries, it added.

IM understands the engine is being trialled in trucks like the 363 t Komatsu 980Es working at high altitudes in Latin America, with potential to be deployed in ultra-class trucks working in similar environments from other OEMs.

Cummins says the QSK95 delivers an “optimum power-to-weight ratio for 400 t (363 tonne) haul trucks”, a 3,800 hp rating for increased fuel efficiency and, on average, a 15% better life to overhaul, leading to longer engine lifespan with fewer overhauls.

“Specially designed single-stage turbocharging system means the QSK95 reliably maintains big power, even at high altitudes”, Cummins said. It also comes with lower vibration and less noise, thanks to the simple compact V16 design and stiff engine block.