Perkins has launched its new 404F-E22TA, an engine designed to meet EU Stage IIIB/ U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emissions standards, at this year’s Bauma China. The launch of this compact, four-cylinder model heralds a new era for the 400 Series range, as it is the first time that common rail direct injection and full authority electronics feature on an engine of this size.

The new turbocharged aftercooled 2.2 litre model should be of particular interest to compact equipment manufacturers, especially for construction applications.

While the new model retains many of the features that have made the 400 Series the first choice for many Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) globally, it is the addition of the common rail fuel system and full authority electronics that will provide a tangible and marked increase in performance and allow OEMs greater flexibility in tailoring the engine to specific applications. It also allows OEMs to use a smaller displacement engine in machines where traditionally engines up to 2.9 litres may have been the norm.

Performance from the 404F-E22TA has been boosted to 50 kW (67 hp) with a maximum torque of 208 Nm at 1800 rpm, while rated speed is up to 2800 rpm. OEMs also have the option of a turbocharged non-aftercooled model, offering up to 36 kW (48 hp).

As a result operators and end users will experience better load acceptance, good transient response and overall smoother operation from machines equipped with this top-of-the-range 400 Series model.

However, the uplift in performance has not come at the expense of fuel consumption. Real life testing has shown a 7 percent improvement in specific fuel consumption (SFC) previously gained at Stage IIIA/Tier 4 Interim. This has been aided by better heat rejection enabling lower fan speeds.

As with all engine models from Perkins the onus is very much on making the transition to Stage IIIB/Tier 4 Final as seamless as possible so that costly machine redesign can be avoided.

The compact package size and sleek engine architecture, featuring a rear-mounted small diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), allows OEMs to adopt no-compromise machine designs across many construction applications including skid steer loaders, compact wheeled loaders, hydraulic excavators and rollers.

“The launch of the 404F-E22TA represents a significant evolution for the 400 Series. For OEMs in the compact machinery market it offers some compelling advantages, not least of which is the ability to transform how their machines perform and operate,” explains David Kidder, 400 Series product manager.

“The sheer flexibility of this engine in terms of machine integration is a real step-change and the benefits for OEM customers will be tangible and welcomed. Performance aside, we have also managed to improve SFC, lower noise and retain the compact dimensions that are so necessary for this sector,” he adds.