MOL tests filter designed to slash diesel PM emissions

Written by Nick Blenkey

molparticmicroMitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has started to test of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) system installed on the diesel engine used for power generation on an MOL Group-operated oceangoing vessel.

The system has been jointly developed by MOL and Akasaka Diesels Ltd. with research support from classification society Nippon Kaiji Kyokai (ClassNK). The system, which is intended for engines that run on grade C heavy fuel was tested in 2010 on the main engine of a ferry serving coastal areas of Japan. The test announced today is the first on an oceangoing vessel.

This system incorporates a filter that uses silicon carbide ceramic fibers. The filter collects particulate matter (PM) when exhaust gas passes through it. It can collect over 80 percent of PM produced by the engine, significantly reducing black smoke emissions. A self-cleaning system that automatically combusts and eliminates PM buildup in the filter, allowing for continual operation without clogging of the filter, and requiring no maintenance by seafarers.

The test in oceangoing conditions is scheduled to run for about one year (operating time: about 4,000 hours) to verify the system’s PM collection performance. After that, its durability will be assessed. The test started in November 2011, and the DPF system has already operated smoothly for over 500 hours.

February 6, 2012

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