Heavy Duty Engine Optimization
Diesel engines are utilized in a wide range of industrial applications and may be stationary, mobile or connected to a driveline for on-road and off-road applications. The engine speed will vary based on the load applied to the system, and when in use, most engines can vary between idle and maximum output during normal operations. Accessories (e.g., fans, pumps, alternators, compressors and turbochargers) connected to the engine must be designed to meet the system demands across the engine operating range (from idle to maximum output). In effect, these accessory devices consume excess power across 99% of their operating range.
Engine accessories can impact the fuel efficiency of the overall system (by up to 25%). The introduction of an adjustable speed drive (ASD) can have an immediate impact on the fuel efficiency by providing constant output speed to the accessory independent of the speed of the engine. Constant speed, independent of the engine speed, will allow for the accessory to run at an optimum speed, no matter the engine output. Equipment manufacturers will be able to construct accessories that are sized to meet engine requirements instead of the input speed of the engine which allows the accessories to be smaller and more efficient. Most heavy duty diesel engines utilize 5-7 accessories. Implementation of ASDs with the accessories can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%, reduce temperature variations and reduce noise signature of the engine.
On heavy duty engines, ASDs can be applied to most engine accessories including Thermal Management, Turbo Chargers and Power Generation (Alternators).
Click on any of the applications to read more about what the Orbital Traction’s ASD has to offer.