Overview#
The MTU 10V1600 DS500 is a 500 kW diesel standby generator set powered by the MTU 10V1600G80S — a 17.5-liter, 10-cylinder V-configuration turbocharged and charge-air-cooled diesel engine producing up to 561 kWm (752 bhp) gross at 1,800 rpm. The engine uses common rail fuel injection and MTU's ADEC (Advanced Diesel Engine Control) electronic isochronous governor delivering ±0.25% speed regulation.
The DS500 carries EPA Tier 2 certification and is available in all standard North American voltages from 208V to 600V three-phase. The prime rating is 450 kW, making this unit appropriate for prime or continuous duty as well as standby applications. PMG (Permanent Magnet Generator) excitation is standard on the 570-frame alternators used at this power level, providing motor starting capability of up to 300% short circuit current.
Standard equipment includes a unit-mounted radiator rated for 50°C ambient, 24V electric start (1,050 CCA), UL 2200 listing and CSA certification as options, 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 | 500 | 625 |
| Prime | 450 | 563 |
Engine — MTU 10V1600G80S
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 17.5 L (1,068 in³) |
| Configuration | 10-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 | 561 kWm (752 bhp) |
| Emissions | EPA Tier 2 |
| Starting | 24V electric, 1,050 CCA |
Fuel Consumption (Diesel #2)
| Load | Consumption |
|---|---|
| 100% load | 33.1 gph (125 L/hr) |
| 75% load | 25.6 gph (97 L/hr) |
| 50% load | 19.5 gph (74 L/hr) |
Physical (Open Power Unit)
| Dimension | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 3,416 mm (134.5 in) |
| Width | 1,873 mm (73.75 in) |
| Height | 2,032 mm (80 in) |
| Dry weight | 4,175–5,129 kg (9,205–11,308 lb) |
Cooling System
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Radiator ambient rating | 50°C (122°F) |
| Water pump capacity | 466 L/min (123 gpm) |
| Heat rejection to coolant | 235 kW |
| Heat rejection to aftercooler | 118 kW |
| Heat radiated to ambient | 58.6 kW |
Our Service Experience#
The MTU 10V1600G80S is a high-output proprietary engine that steps up from the 8V1600's V8 to a V10 configuration — adding two cylinders while maintaining the same 122mm bore and 150mm stroke. At 500 kW from 17.5 liters, this engine is operating at higher specific output than the smaller V8 variant and will reward meticulous fuel quality management.
For data center and critical facility applications, the DS500's PMG alternator and 300% short circuit capability make it well suited to motor-starting loads and redundant UPS transfer switching. The 50°C radiator rating allows for warmer machine room designs, though California and desert-climate installations should verify ambient clearances around the radiator.
Fuel consumption at 500 kW is 33.1 gph at full load — a 1,000-gallon base tank provides approximately 30 hours at full load. Most data center installations specify 72-hour fuel storage (approximately 2,400 gallons for this unit at full standby).
Frequently Asked Questions#
What is the difference between the DS500 and the DS350? The DS500 uses the 10V1600G80S (17.5L, V10, EPA Tier 2) versus the DS350's 8V1600G70S (14.0L, V8, EPA Tier 3). The Tier 2 vs Tier 3 difference reflects the introduction timing of each model within the 1600-series product line. The DS500 is also physically larger: 134.5 inches long versus 118 inches for the DS350.
What EPA tier is the DS500? EPA Tier 2 certified. The 10V1600 was released before the Tier 3 certification window for this displacement class, and carries the Tier 2 rating from the original product introduction.
What voltages are available? 208V, 240V, 480V, and 600V three-phase (380V and 440V also listed). UL 2200 listing and CSA certification available as options on the 208V, 240V, 480V, and 600V configurations.
What is the fuel tank requirement for 24-hour standby? At 33.1 gph full load, 24 hours requires approximately 800 gallons. For 24-hour standby at typical 80% average load factor, plan for approximately 640 gallons. Sub-base tanks from 150 to 1,000 gallons are available; larger installations typically use above-ground bulk storage with day tank.
