An air starter motor is a lesser-known equipment but a crucial supporting device for internal combustion diesel engines in large carriers. When starting an engine, the slow-speed mechanism in two-stroke diesel engines compels the vessel to run at a low rotational speed, typically at 300 rpm or less. Propelling the heavy-weight carrier at this speed is challenging. The engine must attain specific high-pressure and temperature conditions to achieve a successful combustion cycle. The Cat Reman Air Starter Motor is the ultimate device for Caterpillar marine diesel engines to address such limitations.
This comprehensive guide for shipbuilders and vessel owners highlights the features, functions, and eminence of air starter systems in heavy ships.
What is an Air Starter Motor
The air starter motor is the heart and soul of the air starter system. When integrated into compatible components, the equipment helps achieve successive high-quality combustion cycles at engine start-up. Slow-speed diesel engines, especially the 2-stroke modules, require time to build up the necessary pressure and reach the minimum operating temperature.
The air starter motor regulates the flow of compressed air into the combustion chamber at a high pressure. Typically, the pressure of the compressed air is 435 psi, equivalent to 30 bar. After entering the cylinder, the gas pushes the piston from the top dead center (TDC) to move toward the bottom dead center (BDC). The moving piston compresses the air-fuel mixture, igniting the spark for combustion.
Vessel owners do not need to use the air starter system throughout the engine operation. Its functionality is limited to kickstarting the engine operations and supporting the cycles for a specified time. Once the engine attains the required temperature and pressure for accurate operations, the technicians may stop the motor and the compressor.
Working Principle
The air starter motor is compatible for use with diesel-powered and gas engines, as well as other similar marine and industrial equipment. The device has a structural framework identical to that of an air-operated engine. Its purpose in a heavy carrier is to crank the bulk internal combustion diesel engines. The goal of the equipment is to enhance engine operation when it cannot function independently.
A Cat Air Starter Motor extracts and utilizes the compressed air from the compressor unit of the air starter system. The motor converts the compressed air to induce mechanical rotation, providing the high torque necessary to run the engine even when it is cool and does not gather sufficient pressure.
These air-powered engines comprise a series of pistons (also called vanes). The device required airflow at high pressure to drive the motor vanes. This action delivers high torque, suitable for an engine at start-up and during low-speed operation. The Cat Reman Air Starter motor can operate seamlessly in cold weather conditions, manage heavy loads, and continue to function even when the batteries are low.
The motor receives compressed air from the storage tank. As the pressurized air flows into the motor, the vanes spin the air to produce mechanical energy. The engine’s flywheel receives the mechanical energy in the form of rotational force entering through a pinion gear. Thereafter, the rotational force turns the flywheel to start the cranking cycle.
Thus, the mechanical energy empowers the engine to resume regular operation even when it is cool, running at low speed and pressure.
Cat Reman Air Starter Motors are robust, heavy-duty modules that meet strict maritime emission standards. Such equipment is reliable for operating under stringent marine conditions, performs long crank cycles, and offers an extended lifecycle.
Key Features
Scalable Operating Pressure
Each model is labeled with the maximum operating pressure. The information enables vessel operators to select the most suitable item for specific pressure requirements.
Pre-specified Rotational Direction
The Cat Reman Air Starter Motor rotates in a clockwise direction. It ensures that the technicians always know the specific direction in which the motor will regulate the airflow. These specifications are necessary for precise equipment setup and position in the engine room.
High Torque Output During Low Engine Speed
The Cat air starter motors can deliver high torque in extreme cold environments and when the engine is running at a low speed. This is necessary for consistent engine operation and reliability. Cat’s cutting-edge technology is an excellent choice for managing the engine’s compression forces and overcoming glitches.
Why Cat Reman Air Starter Motor Vital for Ships
Marine diesel engines, including a few hybrid fuel models, offer the ultimate power, reliability, and performance. However, during the initial phase of operating the internal combustion engines, it takes some time for the engine to attain the required heat and pressure to regulate the successive combustion cycles independently. The Cat Reman Air Starter Motor module, designed explicitly for Cat marine engines, supports precise operation until the engine reaches a sufficient temperature and pressure to conduct ignition.
Buy OEM Cat Reman Air Starter Motor at Affordable Prices
Caterpillar marine engine users always prefer purchasing Cat reman engines and spare parts. There are several reasons to invest in a reman product from the brand. Cat offers specific engines and parts made of reman materials. These products provide the same level of machine efficiency, reliability, performance, and durability as those from other brands on the market. All of these are available to you with a comprehensive manufacturer warranty but at a fraction of the cost.
Alfa Marine Spare Parts offers an extensive selection of marine engines and spare parts, including several reman models, at affordable prices. Here is a list of Cat Reman Air Starter Motors to purchase at our online store.
20R-9951 – 12 Teeth model
20R-9950 – Cat Reman Air Starter Motor (Turbine)
20R-9949 – 12 Teeth model
20R-9948 – 12 Teeth model
20R-9947 – 12 Teeth model
20R-9178 – 12 Teeth model
20R-6874 –
20R-0462 – 12 Teeth model
20R-0461 – 12 Teeth model
10R-9657 – 11 Teeth model
10R-9656 –
331-6023 – Standard Rotation Air Starter Motor used in Electrical Starting Arrangement
321-9655 – Air Powered Starter Motor for Marine Engines
542-5975 – Air Starter Motor used in Electrical Starting System
10R-9085 – 11 Teeth model
0R-9856 – 11 Teeth model
0R-9855 – 12 Teeth model
If you need assistance with product selection or cannot find the required item in our list, please get in touch with us.
Shop all vessel spares and diesel engines at Alfa Marine Spare Parts – the ace online store for marine engines, turbochargers, heat exchangers, electrical accessories, and other boat devices. If you need help selecting genuine spare parts for your boat engine or bulk carrier, please get in touch with our customer support team for assistance. Always mention the required part number in your message.
