Noax BV of the Netherlands and Caterpillar Inc. have reached a patent and licensing agreement for further development of free-piston technology. The agreement allows Caterpillar to apply this totally new concept of generating hydrostatic energy for use in Caterpillar equipment.
The application of the technology is said to be a major breakthrough in the market of diesel hydraulic machinery. Free-piston technology uses considerably fewer parts, reducing production cost. A free-piston engine has substantial environmental advantages; compared to conventional diesel engines, significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions such as CO2, NOx, and soot are expected.
NOAX BV was established in 1993 by IHC Holland, the Triodos Bank, and Innas Free Piston BV to develop and exploit free-piston technology. The technology was initiated by Innas BV more than 8 years ago. Noax is currently testing the technology in a forklift truck. A running engine prototype is also ready for demonstrations.
