On both rail and road the image of so-called ‘dirty diesels’ is one ofclattering noise and choking black exhaust fumes. Today we take a look at the history of the diesel engine and new green revolution technology (such as Envirosafe Solutions’ eco-friendly industrial liquid Diesel Bug Killer) that’s helping to drive a cleaner image.
Diesel technology has fueled the modern freight system of today.
First patented in 1878 by Rudolf Diesel, the diesel engine was designed as a solution to the gasoline engine, which in its early form was not terribly efficient.
Along with the steam engine, these two methods of transportation only used about 10 per cent of fuel to move a vehicle. The rest produced useless heat – which was wasteful, inefficient and costly.
Rudolf Diesel’s first successful engine was reportedly able to run at 26 per cent efficiency (twice as efficient as its peers).
Yet despite its efficiency and longer life-span, diesel engines today are vastly outranked by petrol motors in passenger cars. The negative image of big, soot-spewing trucks has made the diesel less attractive to the general motoring public.
While extreme green technologies (such as ultra-low sulphur diesel and environmental cleaning products) are helping to reduce the effects of diesel transport on the environment, it remains a significant pollutant.
The biggest drawback for diesel technology is its emissions – the exhaust fumes are dirtier than a comparable petrol motor. Diesel particulate matter has been proven to be cancer causing and contribute to greenhouse gases.
New emissions standards have been introduced by the Federal Government and are aimed at reducing particulate matter and emissions of hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides. By 2018 all diesels will need to be fitted with filters to dramatically cut the level of particulate matter in exhaust fumes.
Existing technologies including environmentally friendly liquid fuel conditioners improve the performance of diesel engines while reducing emissions.
Envirosafe Solutions is a leading Australian supplier of eco-friendly liquid products including a range of fuel treatments designed with diesels in mind.
Its Diesel Bug Killer kills a microscopic contaminant which produces a build-up of slime, which can clog fuel lines and filters. The bug also releases corrosive hydrogen sulphide, which can pit engine parts.
Suitable for all fuel types, this environmentally friendly liquid has become popular with councils and freight companies to improve fleet performance, reduce down-time and reduce dangerous emissions.
Envirosafe Solutions has an extensive range of green products, including truck washes and workshop cleaners all designed to reduce environmental impacts.
The diesel engine has powered a successful freight industry and tougher emissions guidelines, newer fuels and cleaner technologies look set to bring it into the motoring mainstream.
For more information on clean, green solutions for the workshop or depot contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.
Sources:
http://sites.google.com/site/truckenvironmentalcentre/Welcome/diesel-in-road-transport
