Overview#
The Cat 3516E is a large-format diesel generator set delivering up to 3,000 kW for standby applications. Built on Cat's proven 3500 engine platform, the 3516E features a 78.1-liter V-16 engine with ATAAC (air-to-air aftercooled) aspiration, electronic unit injection, and ADEM A5 electronic governor for precise speed control.
Available in voltages from 380V through 11,000V medium voltage, the 3516E supports both low-voltage and medium-voltage distribution. The EMCP 4.2B control panel provides PLC functionality, load histogram features, protective relaying, and Cat Connect remote monitoring capability.
Key specifications#
- Power: Up to 3,000 kW standby
- Engine: Cat 3516E, V-16, 4-stroke, 78.1L displacement
- Bore x stroke: 170 mm x 215 mm (6.69 in x 8.46 in)
- Compression ratio: 14.7:1
- Fuel system: Electronic Unit Injection (EUI) with ADEM A5 governor
- Emissions: Tier 2 Equivalent
- Alternator: SR5, 3-phase brushless with permanent magnet excitation, Class H insulation
- Dry weight: Up to 52,911 lb (24,000 kg)
Physical dimensions#
The 3516E genset measures approximately 362.0 inches long, 100.5 inches wide, and 136.9 inches high. Minimum dry weight starts at 47,620 lb (21,600 kg). The package ships with radiator installed and includes anti-vibration mounts.
Generator options#
The 3516E is available with multiple alternator frame sizes:
- Low voltage: Random wound, 380/400/415V, Frames 1600 and 1800
- Medium voltage: Form wound with busbar connections
- High voltage: Up to 11,000V with differential current transformers available
Our service experience#
The 3516E continues the legacy of Cat's 3500 engine platform, one of the most widely deployed large diesel engines in power generation. The electronic unit injection system and ADEM A5 controls provide precise fuel metering and diagnostic capability. The V-16 configuration requires balanced turbocharger maintenance and regular S-O-S fluid analysis to track wear trends across all 16 cylinders.
FAQ#
What is the standby power output of the Cat 3516E?#
The Cat 3516E is rated up to 3,000 ekW standby at 50 Hz (1,500 rpm) or 60 Hz (1,800 rpm). It is available in voltages from 380V through 11,000V medium voltage.
What engine does the Cat 3516E generator use?#
The 3516E -- a 78.1-liter V-16, four-stroke turbocharged-aftercooled (ATAAC) diesel with a 170 mm bore, 215 mm stroke, 14.7:1 compression ratio, and Electronic Unit Injection (EUI) governed by the ADEM A5 electronic governor. Meets Tier 2 Equivalent emission standards.
What are the service intervals for the Cat 3516E?#
Standard Cat 3500 Series service intervals apply: oil change every 500 hours or 12 months, coolant flush at 6,000 hours, air filter at 1,000 hours, major overhaul at 40,000 hours. Annual load bank testing is recommended for standby installations.
Is the Cat 3516E EPA compliant?#
The 3516E meets Tier 2 Equivalent Emissions standards with EU Declaration of Conformity (CE), EU Declaration of Incorporation, Eurasian Conformity (EAC), ISO 8528-5, and NFPA 110 compliance.
Who services Cat 3516E generators in Northern California?#
OnPoint Generators provides installation, maintenance, load bank testing, and emergency service for Caterpillar generators throughout Northern California and the Central Valley. As an authorized dealer network partner, we stock common Cat parts and have factory-trained technicians. Call us for service within a 150-mile radius of Sacramento.
What fuel does the Cat 3516E use?#
The 3516E runs on ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD). Biodiesel blends up to B20 are compatible with the 3500 Series engine platform.
How does the Cat 3516E compare to the 3516B?#
The 3516E (78.1L, up to 3,000 kW) delivers higher output than the 3516B (69L, up to 2,250 kW) through a longer stroke (215 mm vs 190 mm) that increases displacement within the same V-16 configuration. The ADEM A5 governor on the 3516E is a newer generation than the ADEM A3 on the 3516B.
What controller does the Cat 3516E use?#
The Cat 3516E uses the EMCP 4.2B controller, providing PLC functionality, load histogram features, programmable protective relaying, Modbus RTU communications, and Cat Connect remote monitoring.
