MTU America, a global leader in diesel engine manufacturing, sought to consolidate and modernize its North American engine assembly and testing operations. Their existing facility in Redford, MI, was slated for relocation to Aiken, SC, presenting a significant logistical and technical challenge. The core need was to design and construct a state-of-the-art facility capable of handling the assembly and rigorous diesel engine dynamometer testing of Series 2000 and Series 4000 diesel engines, destined for diverse applications in marine, mining, rail, construction, and power generation. This relocation and upgrade required not just new infrastructure, but also the seamless integration of existing and new test equipment into highly functional engine testing facilities.
ACS was awarded a single-source contract to manage the entire relocation and modernization project. This encompassed comprehensive design, construction management, equipment specification, procurement, installation, integration of all equipment and facility systems, and final commissioning. The project involved an 18,500 SF building addition specifically for new test cells, control rooms, and a utility corridor, alongside a significant remodel of the existing 200,000 SF facility. ACS’ expertise in integrated facilities construction was pivotal in coordinating these complex parallel efforts.
A key aspect of the solution was the careful selection and integration of both relocated existing test equipment and new, cutting-edge equipment provided by ACS. The design of the new engine testing facilities prioritized flexibility, ensuring that the universal driveline and fluid systems layout would allow for the diesel engine dynamometer testing of all current and some future engine models within the same cell. This forward-thinking approach was critical for MTU’s long-term operational efficiency. ACS’ single-source responsibility for integrated facilities construction meant a unified vision from conception to completion, ensuring all mechanical, electrical, and control systems worked in perfect harmony.
The successful relocation and modernization project provided MTU America with highly efficient and adaptable engine testing facilities. The new facility in Aiken, SC, now effectively serves as MTU’s central hub for North American engine assembly and diesel engine dynamometer testing. The ability to test various engine models within the same cell, combined with the large cell footprint and flexible layout, has significantly enhanced MTU’s testing capabilities. The integrated facilities construction approach minimized disruptions and ensured a smooth transition for MTU’s critical operations. This new facility not only meets current production and testing demands but also provides built-in expansion capabilities, future-proofing MTU’s investment and supporting their continued growth in the diesel engine market.