Overview#
The MTU 12V1600 DS600 is a 600 kW diesel standby generator set powered by the MTU 12V1600G80S — a 21.0-liter, 12-cylinder V-configuration turbocharged and charge-air-cooled diesel engine producing up to 668 kWm (896 bhp) gross at 1,800 rpm. This is the largest engine in the standard 1600-series product line running common rail fuel injection with ADEC (Advanced Diesel Engine Control) isochronous governance at ±0.25% speed regulation.
The DS600 carries EPA Tier 2 certification and is available in all standard North American voltages from 208V to 600V three-phase, with UL 2200 listing and CSA certification as options. The prime rating is 550 kW. PMG (Permanent Magnet Generator) excitation is standard, supporting up to 300% short circuit current for motor starting and UPS system compatibility.
Standard equipment includes a unit-mounted radiator rated for 50°C ambient, 24V electric start (1,050 CCA), brushless 4-pole alternator, and the MTU digital control panel with CANBus ECU communications, NFPA 110 compatibility, and IP 54 front panel protection. IBC seismic certification and OSHPD pre-approval are available as factory options.
Technical Specifications#
Power Ratings (60 Hz, 1800 rpm, 0.8 PF)
| Rating | kW | kVA |
|---|---|---|
| Standby | 600 | 750 |
| Prime | 550 | 688 |
Engine — MTU 12V1600G80S
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 21.0 L (1,281 in³) |
| Configuration | 12-cylinder V |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged and charge-air-cooled |
| Fuel injection | Common rail |
| Rated speed | 1800 rpm |
| Governor | ADEC electronic isochronous, ±0.25% |
| Max gross power | 668 kWm (896 bhp) |
| Emissions | EPA Tier 2 |
| Starting | 24V electric, 1,050 CCA |
Fuel Consumption (Diesel #2)
| Load | Consumption |
|---|---|
| 100% load | 40.0 gph (151.4 L/hr) |
| 75% load | 30.2 gph (114.3 L/hr) |
| 50% load | 21.2 gph (80.2 L/hr) |
Physical (Open Power Unit)
| Dimension | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 3,737 mm (147.13 in) |
| Width | 1,899 mm (74.75 in) |
| Height | 2,137 mm (84.13 in) |
| Dry weight | 4,774–5,829 kg (10,524–12,850 lb) |
Cooling System
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Radiator ambient rating | 50°C (122°F) |
| Water pump capacity | 517 L/min (137 gpm) |
| Heat rejection to coolant | 270 kW |
| Heat rejection to aftercooler | 170 kW |
| Heat radiated to ambient | 67.1 kW |
Our Service Experience#
The 12V1600G80S is the flagship engine of the standard 1600-series — 21 liters and 12 cylinders delivering 600 kW from a platform that weighs over 10,500 pounds at the lower bound. Installations at this size require engineered pads and careful access planning: rigging this unit requires a crane with sufficient reach and weight capacity, and service access needs to be planned from day one.
The 21-liter V12 uses significant quantities of oil and coolant — the total oil system holds 73 liters and total coolant capacity is 106 liters. Plan fluid management accordingly during service events. The charge air cooler is particularly critical on this platform: at 170 kW of heat rejection to the aftercooler, the charge air circuit carries a substantial load, and any restriction or leak has a significant impact on power output and detonation margin.
At 40 gph fuel consumption at full load, a 1,500-gallon day tank provides 37.5 hours at full load. Most industrial and data center installations with this unit specify 2,000–3,000 gallon above-ground storage with transfer pump.
Frequently Asked Questions#
What engine does the DS600 use? The MTU 12V1600G80S — a 21.0-liter, 12-cylinder V-configuration diesel with common rail injection and ADEC electronic isochronous control. This engine produces 668 kWm gross and is MTU proprietary, requiring MTU-certified technicians for ECU diagnostics and injector service.
What EPA tier is the DS600? EPA Tier 2 certified, per the OEM spec sheet. The 12V1600 series carries Tier 2 certification consistent with the product's introduction era.
How does the DS600 compare to the DS500? Both use the same 1600-series engine family. The DS600 adds two cylinders (V12 vs V10) and 3.5 liters of displacement (21.0L vs 17.5L), producing 100 additional kW standby. The DS600 is also longer (147 vs 134.5 inches) and heavier (10,524 vs 9,205 lb minimum).
What alternator does the DS600 use? The 573RSL and 572RSL series alternators from the MTU alternator line (Stamford-based), with PMG excitation standard. The specific alternator code varies by voltage: 573RSL4033 is used for 208V and 240V configurations at this power level.
