Large IC Engine (Generator) Main bearing failure after rebuild

Wednesday, September 15, 2021: 1:40 PM
240 (America's Center)
Mr. Chris Spies, PE , Engineering Design & Testing, Lenexa, KS
After the completion of a "20,000 hour service" rebuild, including connection rod bearing, piston, piston pin and cylinder liner replacement, the subject engine (24-cylinder, turbocharged, natural gas fueled; part of a genset) experienced con-rod and main bearing failure on multiple cylinders. While various theories were offered, completion of a full, methodical tear-down process and Root Cause Analysis allowed the actual cause to be determined.