Overview#
The Cummins KTA38-G5 is an 887-kilowatt standby diesel generator (at 50 Hz) built on the KTA38 37.8-liter V12 — Cummins' legacy large-displacement platform that preceded the QSK series. Operated at 1500 rpm (50 Hz), the KTA38-G5 delivers 887 kW standby / 1109 kVA and 811 kW prime / 1014 kVA using the Cummins PT (Pressure-Time) direct injection system with an Electronic Fuel Control (EFC) governor.
Important note on frequency: The KTA38-G5 is a 50 Hz generator platform rated at 1500 rpm. Published specifications are for 50 Hz operation only. Facilities requiring 60 Hz standby power should consider the Cummins QSK38-G5 (1160 kW at 60 Hz, 1800 rpm).
The KTA38's PT fuel injection system is mechanically governed and field-serviceable without common rail diagnostic tooling — a key advantage in remote industrial, mining, and international deployments where Cummins InPower software access may be limited. The V12 configuration and robust cast iron construction have supported service lives of 30+ years on well-maintained units.
Engine dry weight is 4,990 kg. Lube oil capacity is 135 liters and coolant capacity 210 liters, consistent with a platform engineered for sustained high-load operation at large industrial facilities.
Technical Specifications#
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standby Rating | 887 kWe (1109 kVA) |
| Prime Rating | 811 kWe (1014 kVA) |
| Frequency | 50 Hz |
| Engine Model | KTA38-G5 |
| Displacement | 37.8 liters |
| Configuration | Cast iron, V-12 |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged and aftercooled |
| Rated Speed | 1500 rpm |
| Starting Voltage | 24V |
| Battery Charging Alternator | 35 amps |
| Lube Oil Capacity | 135 liters |
| Coolant Capacity | 210 liters |
| Limiting Ambient Temp (50 Hz) | 50 °C |
| Engine Length | 3389 mm |
| Engine Width | 1752 mm |
| Engine Height | 2463 mm |
| Engine Dry Weight | 4,990 kg |
| Flywheel | SAE 0 |
Fuel consumption at 1500 rpm (50 Hz) — estimated from published prime/standby ratios:
| Power Level | Load % | L/hr |
|---|---|---|
| Standby | 100 | 248 |
| Prime | 100 | 224 |
| Prime | 75 | 169 |
| Prime | 50 | 122 |
| Prime | 25 | 73 |
Our Service Experience#
The KTA38 comes up regularly in our legacy industrial and institutional accounts. The PT fuel system is straightforward to service but requires attention to injection timing and pump calibration to maintain rated output and clean combustion. Our standard KTA38 service includes: oil and coolant analysis, PT injection pump condition and timing check, turbocharger inspection (bearing play, shaft condition, inlet/outlet condition), cooling circuit pressure testing, and full load bank test at or near rated output.
Fuel quality management is especially important on standby KTA38 units — the PT injectors are sensitive to degraded fuel, and units that sit for long periods without fuel treatment are candidates for injector fouling. Annual fuel sampling is part of every KTA38 service event.
Frequently Asked Questions#
What are the KTA38-G5 power ratings? Standby (ESP): 887 kWe / 1109 kVA at 50 Hz (1500 rpm). Prime (PRP): 811 kWe / 1014 kVA. The KTA38-G5 is rated for 50 Hz operation only. Gross engine standby output is 982 kWm (1317 BHP) at 1500 rpm.
What fuel injection system does the KTA38-G5 use? The Cummins PT (Pressure-Time) direct injection system with Electronic Fuel Control (EFC) governor. PT fuel delivery is mechanically governed — robust, field-serviceable, and independent of common rail diagnostic software.
How does the KTA38 differ from the QSK38? The QSK38-G5 uses MCRS common rail injection at 1,600 bar, meets EPA Tier 2, and is rated at 1160 kW standby at 60 Hz (1800 rpm). The KTA38-G5 uses PT injection, predates EPA tiering, and is rated at 887 kW standby at 50 Hz (1500 rpm). Both use 37.x-liter V12 architecture. The KTA38 is a legacy platform; QSK38 is current production.
What are the KTA38-G5 engine dimensions and weight? Engine: 3389 mm long x 1752 mm wide x 2463 mm tall, dry weight 4,990 kg. Lube oil capacity 135 liters, coolant capacity 210 liters.
Is the KTA38 still supported by Cummins? Yes. Cummins maintains legacy support with continued parts availability. The KTA38 platform has an extensive installed base globally, and wear parts remain available through the Cummins service network.
FAQ#
What is the standby rating of the Cummins KTA38?#
The Cummins KTA38-G5 is rated at 887 kW standby / 1,109 kVA at 0.8 power factor, 50 Hz, 1500 rpm. Prime rating is 811 kW / 1,014 kVA. The KTA38-G5 is a 50 Hz platform — it does not have published 60 Hz ratings.
What engine does the Cummins KTA38 use?#
The KTA38 uses the Cummins KTA38-G5 — a 37.8-liter, V-12 cylinder, turbocharged and aftercooled diesel using the Cummins PT (Pressure-Time) direct injection system with an Electronic Fuel Control (EFC) governor. It is a legacy platform that predates EPA tier certification, with an extensive installed base from the 1980s through 2000s.
What are the service intervals for the Cummins KTA38?#
As a legacy EPA Tier 1-era platform, the KTA38 requires more frequent oil and filter changes than current-generation engines — due at 250 hours or 6 months, whichever comes first. Fuel filter replacement is scheduled at 500-hour intervals. Air filter replacement is due at 1,000-hour intervals. Coolant change is recommended at 6,000 hours or 5 years. Annual load bank testing is recommended. Major overhaul interval is 30,000 hours under standard operating conditions.
Is the Cummins KTA38 EPA compliant?#
The KTA38 predates the EPA tier certification system for stationary engines. It is a non-regulated legacy platform. For stationary emergency standby applications at existing installations, check with your local air quality management district for applicable requirements and any applicable exemptions for legacy equipment.
Can the Cummins KTA38 be paralleled?#
Yes. The KTA38 can be configured for paralleling applications, and many installed KTA38 units operate in paralleling arrays at large industrial and institutional facilities. Control system options for paralleling vary by installation — consult a Cummins service dealer for retrofit paralleling options.
What fuel type does the Cummins KTA38 use?#
The KTA38-G5 runs on diesel fuel. The PT fuel system is compatible with standard and ultra-low sulphur diesel. Annual fuel sampling is recommended for standby units. The PT injectors are sensitive to degraded or contaminated fuel.
What is the warranty on the Cummins KTA38?#
The KTA38-G5 is a legacy platform — new-unit warranties no longer apply. Refurbished or remanufactured KTA38 units may carry limited coverage from the remanufacturing facility. Cummins' legacy support program continues to provide parts availability.
