Turbocharging experts KBB have teamed up with exhaust gas after-treatment specialists Eminox to combine proven management technologies, so combustion engines can exist alongside alternative power systems as part of a net zero emissions future
Emissions reduction legislation, such as IMO III, EU Stage V and EPA standards – and future[ds_preview] standards – are pressing operators and owners of marine and power generation equipment to be compliant. While some already opt for alternative solutions like LNG or methanol German turbocharging experts KBB also look at current technology together with their British partner Eminox.
Targeting exhaust emissions reductions for applications from 1 to 10 MW, KBB and Eminox have developed a fully integrated emissions control solution for retrofits and new engines that minimises the overall package space required to meet the necessary emissions performance. Advanced urea mixing techniques help to keep the system compact whilst high performance selective catalytic reduction (SCR) helps to minimise the overall catalyst volume. Additionally, the design of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) unit optimises the exhaust flow distribution under all operating conditions minimising the regeneration frequency and reducing the total regeneration time.
The turbo and tailpipe components were harmonized to deliver an optimised solution to control the exhaust emissions and ensure cost effective compliance with the latest regulations for the life of the engine whether for new build or refitting applications.
»We are making ›from turbo to tailpipe‹ a reality,« Eminox technical sales expert, Brian Bates, told HANSA recently when the two companies launched their »marriage«. »Diesel engines in the marine sector are not going away anytime soon. We have to accept that a diesel engines is not carbon neutral, so we have to clean up current operating systems,« Bates said.
»This technology can buy you more time to get to the new technologies,« added KBB managing director Roman Drozdowski. »It is a proven technology that we bring to the marine customers who need fuel economy, availability and durability of 30 to 40 years.«
The KBB-EMx-Solution was designed with modularity in mind. The catalysts modules are of standard size and use technologies which can be applied across the entire range of system sizes. The auxiliary components are also developed to use a standard range of components irrelevant of the overall system size. All elements of the KBB-EMx system design are optimised to ensure aligned service intervals and minimum total cost of ownership.
The Eminox/KBB solution is designed for over 20 years of service, lowering operational costs, and positively supporting the resale value of engines and vessels. According to the companies, the system is future-proofed and upgradeable as and when legislation changes.
»The modular design is a key to offer a solution for existing engines rooms,« Drozdowski said. »This is not only driven by legislation, it also is a commitment to make a step in the right direction. Don’t wait 50 years for alternatives, start now.«
According to Drozdowski, testbed testing of the system is now running as well as the validation process with classification societies. He is confident that the combined will help customers meet maritime standards while reducing the total cost of ownership of their diesel engines. fs
