Selecting reliable and efficient industrial engines, including marine engines, is crucial. But for someone new to the world of industrial engines, it can be difficult to know which brands are the most reliable engine manufacturers for industrial use.
While there are plenty of industrial engine manufacturers creating reliable equipment, some brands stand out from the rest with their high industry standards and level of expertise. Here are some of the most highly-regarded companies in industrial engine manufacturing, and what sets them apart.
Looking for a comprehensive guide to buying industrial engines that fit your needs? Explore our free Ultimate Industrial Engine Buyer’s Guide, complete with common FAQs and helpful insights about the world of industrial engines.
Cummins
Known for durability and reliability, Cummins offers a wide range of engines with power outputs suitable for various industries’ specific needs, including marine applications.
Cummins has been developing engines since shortly after the invention of the diesel engine itself, meaning the organization carries over 100 years of proven history in engine manufacturing.
Because of its long history in the engine manufacturing industry, the company’s engines span a vast range of applications and sizes, meaning they are a reliable choice for most common engine use cases. Their engines are used in construction equipment, marine vessels, mining, locomotives and more.
In recent years, Cummins has also been making large strides in alternative fuel engines, setting themselves apart with fuel-agnostic engines and other cutting-edge innovations.
Caterpillar
A renowned brand in construction and industrial equipment, Caterpillar’s diesel, natural gas, and marine engines provide power outputs and features suitable for various applications.
While Caterpillar is often known for its construction and mining equipment manufacturing, its industrial engines are also highly respected by the industry and are recognized globally.
Known for heavy-duty use, Caterpillar engines are a reliable option for applications that require large amounts of horsepower. That being said, the broad variety of engine models that Caterpillar manufactures offer many different options for different applications, including the construction, mining and utility industries.
Due to their high-quality manufacturing and validation processes, Caterpillar engines have a reputation for longevity and reliability. They remain a top-selling brand of industrial engine worldwide, with wide applications that allow for versatile functions.
Kohler
With over 100 years in the engine business, Kohler’s innovative and reliable industrial engines include diesel, gas, and marine models, catering to diverse industry requirements.
For many years, Kohler was better known for its gasoline engines, however after acquiring Lombardini in 2007 it is now a well-known name in industrial diesel engines. Its engines are utilized to power a wide range of machinery including water pumps and off-road vehicles.
Kohler’s diesel engines are typically on the lower end of the horsepower range, meaning they are a reliable manufacturer for smaller engines and applications that require less power. The higher-horsepower models reach up to around 140hp, compared to the 2000+ horsepower models from other heavy-duty engine manufacturers like Caterpillar or Cummins.
MTU
MTU, short for MTU Friedrichshafen, is a German manufacturer that is a subsidiary of Rolls-Royce.
A global leader in power solutions, MTU’s industrial diesel engines and marine propulsion systems offer reliable and efficient power for diverse industries and applications. Their engines are commonly used in agricultural machinery, mining equipment and waste compacting.
MTU also stands out for some of its emissions-reducing technology, including its exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.
Volvo Penta
Specializing in engines and power systems for marine and industrial applications, Volvo Penta offers a wide range of diesel, gasoline, and hybrid engines designed for performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency.
Founded in 1907 with the production of its first marine engine, Volvo Penta has long been an industry leader for its variety of tried-and-tested engine models that cater to different applications. Its marine engines, which power both commercial and leisure watercraft, are an especially notable point of pride.
On the industrial side, Volvo Penta’s versatile engines are commonplace in the agriculture, construction and forestry industries. Their engines range from around 140-785 horsepower, providing a wide variety of engine sizes for various applications.
Find the Right Engine Brand For Your Needs
These are just a few of the popular manufacturers and models of industrial engines available, including those suitable for marine applications. At Depco, we have experience working with all of these brands and many more, and can help you find the right engine to power your world with confidence.
If you need help finding the right manufacturer for your next industrial engine, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our experts who can help walk you through it. For more information about buying industrial engines, learn everything you need to know from our Ultimate Industrial Engine Buyer’s Guide.
