Tech Briefs
Caterpillar's emissions-control technology
 Caterpillar claims its current Cat 3126E engine is up to 12% cleaner than what is required by present EPA regulations. |
Caterpillar has announced a breakthrough in engine technology designed to meet future federal emissions requirements and lower operating costs. Advanced Combustion Emissions Reduction Technology (ACERT) will be integrated with the next-generation HEUI (Hydraulically activated, Electronically controlled Unit Injector) fuel system for on-highway truck engines and the latest in Cat electronics as the primary technology for meeting emissions regulations through 2006 and beyond.
"This technology is a clear winner for the environment and our customers because it reduces emissions while maintaining engine performance and reliability," said Douglas R. Oberhelman, a Caterpillar Vice President and head of the company's Engine Products Division. "We integrate our proprietary fuel system with our own electronics to produce clean power in truck engines."
An advantage of the product is its cost-effective installation, according to Cat. "ACERT requires minimal new hardware, which lowers the overall cost and simplifies installation for the truck manufacturer," said John Campbell, Truck Engine Product Director in Caterpillar's Performance Engine Products Division. "The simplicity of the system will mean that the transition from current engines to ACERT-equipped engines will be almost unnoticeable to customers."
The technology is the result of considerable research and development effort. "After a careful evaluation of several potential technologies, we found ACERT to be the most effective and cost-efficient solution for our truck-engine customers," said Campbell. "It is an advanced fuel system and combustion technology solution that maintains today's reliability and durability standards while minimizing effects on owning and operating costs."
Current Cat 3126E engine NOx emissions are up to 12% cleaner than what is required by present EPA regulations, according to Cat. Designed to meet future emissions regulations, the ACERT system also features non-regulated emissions benefits such as the elimination of odor and up to a 50% reduction in noise.
- Jean L. Broge
IAS develops new engine
International Automated Systems (IAS) has completed a successful test run of a prototype turbine engine that represents "a breakthrough technology" to generate electricity and to power various types of vehicles and machinery. Dependent upon the specific application, the IAS's new turbine can be produced at about one-tenth the size and cost of traditional systems, based on current cubic-inch-to-power ratios, claims the company.
Although the engine's size and power are scalable to meet both massive and small capacity needs, a 450-kW (600-hp) turbine will likely have a mass of less than 23 kg (50 lb), making it an easily adaptable solution to drive various kinds of motor vehicles. Based upon initial tests, IAS estimates that its turbine engine is capable of more than doubling today's automotive fuel efficiency, while reducing maintenance costs.
IAS's patent-pending engine can accommodate virtually any type of fuel, including coal, and appears to be immune to internal environmental variations that can plague current turbine systems. "The timing is right for a technology that can help address the energy crisis we currently face," said Neldon Johnson, President and CEO of IAS. "IAS offers a fast and inexpensive solution, with a simplicity of production, repair, and maintenance."
IAS expects to begin production on commercial units of its turbine engine later this year.
- Jean L. Broge
