Chevrolet has revealed that its 2020 Silverado will be fitted with a new 3-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine. Developed with efficiency and refinement in mind, the powerplant delivers maximum power output of 280ps and 623Nm of torque.
The inline six-cylinder architecture is equipped with a lightweight aluminum block and cylinder head. Active Thermal Management enhances efficiency and cold-weather warm-up, while Chevrolet’s ceramic glow plugs also help with shorter heat-up times and a quicker cold-start.
“In addition to reduced friction, the architecture enables smooth operation,” said Nicola Menarini, director for diesel truck engine program execution, Chevrolet. “The new Duramax 3.0L elevates the 2019 Silverado with one of the most refined and efficient diesel engines in the segment.”
The Duramax cylinder block is made of a cast aluminum alloy that provides the strength required to support high combustion pressures, while also offering an approximately 25% mass savings over a comparable cast-iron engine block. Iron cylinder liners are used within the aluminum block to insure truck durability.
There are seven nodular iron main bearing caps used in the unit to ensure the block’s strength under high combustion pressures, while also enabling accurate location of the rotating assembly. A deep-skirt block design, where the block casting extends below the crankshaft centerline, also contributes to the engine’s stiffness and refinement.
The rotating assembly consists of a forged steel crankshaft, forged steel connecting rods, and hypereutectic aluminum pistons. The alloys in the respective castings for the rods and pistons make them lightweight and durable, while silicon is blended with the aluminum for heat resistance and tolerance within the piston cylinders.
A thick piston crown and reinforced top ring add strength to support the cylinder pressures, enabled by turbocharging and the engine’s 15.0:1 compression ratio.
