Case Study: Elakha achieves smoother, more efficient repowering with Cummins QSM11 Marine Engine

Repowering a Valued Research Vessel

Oregon State University’s research vessel Elakha needed a mid-life repower as it approached 20 years of service. The team, working with Cummins through Curry Marine, evaluated options for replacing the existing CAT 3176 and needed a reliable solution that would support a wide range of ocean science missions while improving performance and efficiency.

Cummins supplied a new Tier 3 QSM11 610 hp marine engine, along with a ZF360A gear and Glendinning ECS controls. The repower also included new filters, fuel and cooling systems, exhaust, wiring, and updated monitoring. After a COVID-related delay of about 10 weeks, the vessel returned to service with smoother, quieter, cleaner operation, better fuel economy, more available power and speed, and successful sea trials that exceeded expectations.

Elakha

Jeff Lawrence

Captain