Diesel Emissions
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According to the EPA, “more than 11 million diesel engines in operation today do not meet EPA’s new clean diesel standards, yet these engines can continue to operate for 20 to 30 years” (www.epa.gov/cleandiesel). Environmental reform is one of the most important issues facing the country today.
Smelly fleets
The EPA developed the National Clean Diesel Campaign (NCDC) in an effort to regulate harmful diesel emissions. To achieve more instantaneous air quality benefits, the NCDC is promoting the 5 R’s:
- Refuel: The use of advanced diesel fuels.
- Retrofit: Exhaust aftermarket devices.
- Repair/Rebuild: Regular engine maintenance.
- Repower: Replacing the engine.
- Replace: Replacing the vehicle.
Unfortunately, some of these solutions can be pricey and diesel—particularly fleet—owners are struggling to find a cost-effective solution.
New emission technologies
Many fleet owners are relying on “retrofit,” that is, using aftermarket devices to clean up emissions.
For example, a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a ceramic device that collects particulate matter in the exhaust stream. In a typical school bus, it can reduce emissions by 60-90 percent, but costs between $5,000 and $10,000 and must be used only with ULSD. If maintained properly, a DPF can last 7 to 15 years. If a higher sulfur diesel is used, the filter will plug, leading to costly engine damage and possible component replacement.
Another method involves using a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) to break down pollutants into less harmful components. In a typical school bus, it can reduce emissions by 20 percent and costs about $1,000 to $2,000. Requiring almost no maintenance, a DOC can be used with higher sulfur diesel and lasts 7 to 15 years.
Is BG green?
Can BG provide a solution to fleet dealers? Yes! By performing regular engine maintenance with BG products and services, dealers can avoid installing costly aftermarket devices, replacing the engine or worse, the entire vehicle.
For example, the BG Diesel Injection Service breaks down heavy deposits—in the fuel lines, injector pump, fuel injectors and combustion chambers—which cause increased smoke and harmful emissions. On the other end, the unparalleled BG Diesel Induction Service cleans carbon deposits from the air intake system and EGR passages. A task that has required complete engine tear down in the past.
By keeping diesels clean, BG products and services can protect engines and the environment. With 11 million diesel engines under the mark, millions of dollars worth of services are up for grabs.
Look for more in depth coverage on diesel emission technologies in the next installment of Tech Trends.
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