Caterpillar Maintains Engine Value While Lowering Emissions

MOSSVILLE, Ill. - Caterpillar today announced that it has submitted its October 2002 heavy-duty engine line for Environmental Protection Agency certification. The product line features a number of technology enhancements to ensure Cat engines continue to provide excellent reliability, durability, performance and operating cost while lowering emissions. "Design changes in the turbocharger and fuel injection system, as well as the addition of a fuel-temperature stabilization system and proven aftertreatment technology, will lower emissions while maintaining the exceptional performance and operating cost truck owners require," said John Campbell, director of Caterpillar On-Highway Engine Products. The improved Cat engines will use aftertreatment, which is accomplished through a proprietary Caterpillar technology called a diesel oxidation catalyst. This unique system lowers emissions by converting carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbon in the diesel exhaust to water vapor and carbon dioxide. The catalyst has no moving parts, operates at normal exhaust temperatures, and the outer shell is constructed from stainless steel to ensure long life. The technology provides the additional benefit of lowering vehicle noise levels.All engine ratings will use a Caterpillar diesel oxidation catalyst in a configuration determined by the truck manufacturer. Configurations can consist of either single or dual mufflers combined with a catalyst or independent catalytic converter. Each chassis is engineered with the appropriate catalyst for the installed engine.Aftertreatment technology is not new to Caterpillar -- in fact, diesel oxidation catalysts were first introduced on Cat mid-range engines in 1994 and continue to be an integral component on the 3126E Clean Power engine. The technology for October 2002 engines is essentially the same as for today's mid-range engines, sized for the C-10, C-12 and C-15. "Over the past decade, our aftertreatment technology has proven to reduce emissions without sacrificing durability, fuel economy or increasing maintenance costs," Campbell said.The enhanced technology incorporated on these engines includes building blocks of Caterpillar's Advanced Combustion Emissions Reduction Technology (ACERT). ACERT technology is a systems solution that combines breakthrough combustion technology with advanced fuel and air systems technologies, new integrated Cat electronics and an aftertreatment solution. ACERT will meet emissions regulations up through 2006 and is a solid foundation for meeting future emissions regulations.Turbocharger Enhancements The electronic control module (ECM) now controls wastegate actuation -- it features an actuator that controls when the valve is opened or closed. These changes optimize turbocharger airflow, providing maximum fuel economy and performance at the lower emissions levels required for October, 2002. In addition, the ECM contains software to detect tampering and derate the engine if necessary. Both the wastegate control valve and actuator are completely serviceable and covered under Caterpillar's standard engine warranty.Fuel Temperature Stabilization Control Cat heavy-duty engines for October, 2002 include a thermostatically controlled fuel temperature stabilization system to maintain a minimum fuel temperature of 30 degrees C (86 degrees F) to the injectors. The ECM provides a power correction when fuel temperatures exceed a set temperature. Fuel temperatures exceeding a specified level for ten minutes will trigger a diagnostic code to be logged. This feature improves injector durability during cold weather and compensates for power loss due to hot fuel temperatures. Other Design Enhancements Changes to the MEUI fuel system, including software and injectors designed to provide a pilot injection before the primary injection of fuel into the cylinder, will balance fuel economy with reduced emissions levels. Re-shaped pistons also will help lower emissions. Re-designed piston rings and a new liner package will deliver superior oil control and minimize slobbering during extended idling.