The 16GDG gas-diesel generator for the new 3TE30 mainline freight locomotive has successfully passed acceptance tests and received approval for the production of an initial series of 100 engines. The development was completed by Kolomensky Zavod of TMH-Energeticheskiye Resheniya company in cooperation with the Engineering Center for Engine Building of Transmashholding.

The unique feature of the 16GDG is its ability to operate in two modes. The engine can use conventional diesel fuel or natural gas with a small pilot dose of diesel. In gas-diesel cycle, the diesel fuel substitution rate reaches 89%, which will reduce locomotive operating costs.

At the same time, the power unit maintains the necessary characteristics even when operating solely on diesel fuel. This makes future locomotives less dependent on gas infrastructure along their routes.

The new engine develops 3300 kW of power and is based on the D300 family with increased cylinder dimensions CH26/28. This solution allowed for increased output without compromising reliability and service life.

Two 16GDG engines will be installed on the new three-section 3TE30 locomotive, which is being built at the Bryansk Machine-Building Plant. The middle section of the locomotive will receive a liquefied natural gas tank. The fuel supply should be sufficient for a range of up to 4500 km along the Baikal-Amur Mainline with a freight train.

The design is intended for operation in harsh conditions. A locomotive with two power units will be able to transport trains weighing up to 7100 tons on sections with large altitude differences, including complex routes of the Eastern Polygon of Russian Railways.

During the development of the 16GDG, engineers applied an electronic fuel and gas injection control system, updated cooling and lubrication systems, installed more powerful pumps, and expanded diagnostic capabilities. The microprocessor control unit monitors engine operation, optimizes fuel supply, and protects the unit from emergency modes.

All components of the new gas-diesel generator are manufactured using domestic components. The declared service life of the engine is 40 years, which meets the requirements for new generation mainline railway equipment.