Things You Should Know About the 2010 Diesel Regulations
January 6 2010
By 2010, new diesel engines will be required to emit no more than 0.2 grams per brake horsepower (g/bhp-hr) of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and 0.14 (g/bhp-hr) of non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC). Currently, there are three main systems that will help diesel engine manufacturers meet the strict 2010 guideline: Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), in-cylinder, and NOx absorbers.
SCR is the choice for larger engine manufacturers as Volvo, Mack and Cummins which requires the addition of new parts and equipment that helps filter the emission to meet the new standards. This method reduces NOx and particulate matter to the near zero emission standard. All that's required is a small Urea tank be added to the chassis. This Urea - a liquid compound based of 34% ammonia and 66% percent water and will be available in litre-sized containers at most automotive stores and truckstops - is added to the exhaust stream to convert harmful NOx emissions into water vapour. For every 100 US gallons of fuel it will require one US gallon of urea.
The alternatives are an in-cylinder solution and a NOx absorber solution. Large engine manufacturer International Trucks, who makes the MaxxForce enigne and engine supplier for such RV makers as Tiffin Motorhomes, has developed a revolutionary system they are calling the MaxxForve Advanced EGR. EGR, or Exhaust Gas recirculation is an in-cylinder solution which International has implemented and they say offers their customers a maintenance-free solution.
Ultimately, the decisions have been made by the OEM's for which diesel emission standards they will be using. It will be up to the consumer to learn as much about each solution as possible and decide which is right for them. Talk to your dealer to learn more.
For more information about SCR visit www.truthaboutscr.com. For more information about International and their Advanced EGR solution visit www.internationaltrucks.com and follow the links.
