Reimagining the generator market, the Caterpillar C9 Generator Set has captured remarkable attention since its launch. As the Cat C9 (version: C9.3Acert) hit the market, enthusiastic buyers seized the opportunity to acquire this cutting-edge generator set. In a testament to its popularity, three C9 units were already shipped to Spain and prepared for operation, just prior to the latest line’s grand unveiling at the 2015 WorkBoat Show.
What sets the C9 apart from its rivals? In our quest to answer this question, we will examine the key features of the Caterpillar C9 Generator Set, highlight the unique characteristics that differentiate it from other generator sets, and assess the industry’s reception of the C9.
Incorporating Customer Feedback in C9’s Design
Caterpillar’s C9 Generator Set is a testament to the successful combination of customer feedback and engineering expertise. This time, Caterpillar went beyond just incorporating suggestions and allowed customer input to shape the engine’s design, resulting in higher load capacities and expanded commercial applications.
Interpreting and incorporating user input required a new approach from Caterpillar. The company gave credence to customer ideas and brought them to life directly from the factory, adding a range of attachments to the C9 to expand its potential applications. Now capable of driving deck cranes, winches, and pumps, the C9 has become more versatile, fulfilling customer expectations and increasing its marketability in the lower power range.
Caterpillar Embraces Emission Compliance and Ensures Quality
The Cat C9.3 ACERT Marine platform is an EPA Tier 3 compliant generator set, making it Caterpillar’s first EPA Tier 3 set introduced to the North American market. This platform provides scalability while promoting green technology, as Caterpillar continues to implement ACERT technology across its product range.
Introduced by Caterpillar in 2003, ACERT technology effectively reduces emissions by combining four systems: air management, precision combustion, advanced electronics, and after-treatment. This combination allows the generator sets to meet current regulatory emission standards while also achieving MCS approval, assuring customers of their adherence to the Department of Energy and Climate Change’s quality assurance standards.
Caterpillar C9 Generator Set Specifications
Despite these emission-compliant changes, the C9 remains a reliable choice for standby, prime, and load management applications. Its 8.8-liter engine operates at 60 Hz without compromising power, fuel economy, or reliability.
Other user-driven improvements include the HEUI fuel systems with cross-flow cylinder heads, which form the basis of ACERT technology and are controlled by the ADEM A4 controller. The generator’s air-to-air cooling system and other components are managed by the EMCP 3 control system, the primary control component within the C9’s control system. Additionally, the generator is brushless and features Class H insulation.
The power connections offer location options to enhance the generator set’s utility in various situations, along with a multiple control panel and enhanced package-mounted circuit breakers.
The marine platform’s propulsion options produce 375, 416, and 476 bhp at 1800, 2100, and 2300 rpm, respectively. The auxiliary provides 369 and 436 bhp at 1800 rpm or 292 and 362 bhp at 1500 rpm. The generator set is available at 224-300 ekW at 60 Hz or 185-250 ekW at 50 Hz.
Discover the C9’s Potential and Beyond
Caterpillar’s C9 Generator Set has played a crucial role in international projects, including the expansion of Egypt’s Suez Canal. With the C9 and other generator sets from Caterpillar’s lineup, operations were effectively powered, enabling the canal to accommodate the growing sizes of ships passing through its waters.
The success of these projects is attributed to the exceptional range of generator sets, specifically tailored to fulfill various tasks and ensuring the completion of the job at hand.
Contact Depco Power Systems today to learn more about the Caterpillar C9 and its latest iteration, the C9.3 ACERT. Explore its features, accessories, and capabilities, and find out how, as a valued customer, your voice can influence the design of Caterpillar’s products.
