Caterpillar 3406 vs SDEC SC12E480D2
The Caterpillar 3406 and SDEC SC12E480D2 are both diesel generator engines in a similar power class. Both are rated at roughly 400 kVA. Displacement is 14.6 L versus 12 L. The table below compares their full specifications side by side.
| Specification | Caterpillar 3406 | SDEC SC12E480D2 |
|---|---|---|
| Headline rating | 400 kVA | 400 kVA |
| Standby (50 Hz) | 320 kWe | 320 kWe |
| Prime (50 Hz) | 290 kWe | 291 kWe |
| Standby (60 Hz) | 400 kWe | — |
| Prime (60 Hz) | 365 kWe | — |
| Displacement | 14.6 L | 12 L |
| Configuration | L6 | L6 |
| Cylinders | 6 | 6 |
| Rated speed | 1,500 / 1,800 RPM | 1,500 RPM |
| Fuel | Diesel | Diesel |
| Cooling | Liquid-Cooled | Liquid-Cooled |
| Emissions | U.S. EPA Tier 2 | China National Stage II / Unregulated |
| Dry weight | — | — |
| Origin | United States | China |
Choosing between Caterpillar 3406 and SDEC SC12E480D2
Use this comparison as an engineering shortlist, then confirm the complete generator package against load profile, voltage, 50/60 Hz frequency, duty class, emissions rules, cooling margin, altitude, ambient temperature, enclosure design, controller features, and alternator sizing.