Understanding thermal management in aftertreatment systems
What is thermal management in an aftertreatment system?
Advanced aftertreatment technologies reduce emissions and meet strict environmental standards. These technologies use catalysts to capture and reduce emissions from exhaust gases, but they need precise thermal management to work well. By maintaining an optimal temperature range, we ensure maximum performance, helping to improve air quality and create a healthier environment for everyone.
When did emission regulations start for diesel trucks?
The commercial vehicle industry has worked for decades to lower emissions. Fifty years ago, exhaust aftertreatment technologies didn’t exist. Initially, efforts focused on reducing emissions within the engine through better combustion technology. However, the early 2000s brought tighter regulatory standards, prompting a shift toward exhaust aftertreatment systems to achieve further emissions reductions.
Aftertreatment systems were a big step forward. These systems convert emissions into less harmful forms. However, they need to stay at the right temperature to work effectively, making thermal management a critical component to meet stringent emissions regulations.
Thermal Management Offerings from Cummins Emissions Solutions
At Cummins Emissions Solutions (CES), we’ve developed advanced thermal management technologies that meet today’s regulatory standards and prepare for future regulations.
Hydrocarbon Dosing
Hydrocarbon dosing is one of CES’s key thermal management solutions. It injects small amounts of diesel into the exhaust stream, where it oxidizes and raises the temperature of the exhaust gas and catalytic elements. This process keeps catalytic components in their optimal zone. It is especially useful during low-load engine operations where temperatures might trip below the optimal range.
Electric Heaters
Another innovation from CES is our electric heater technology. We’ve developed electric heaters, including 5 kW and 10 kW versions, for rapid and precise temperature control. Electric heaters are effective during cold starts or in hybrid vehicles, where immediate thermal activation is critical. They help minimize emissions from the moment the engine starts by quickly reaching the optimal temperature.
The future of thermal management
The future of thermal management in aftertreatment systems will focus on greater efficiency and emissions reduction. CES technologies already cut emissions by up to 99%, but future regulatory standards will demand even more. Meeting these requirements will require new materials, system integration, and control algorithms to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
As the transportation and manufacturing sectors evolve, CES is committed to staying ahead of the curve. Our team develops solutions that meet future standards and set new benchmarks for sustainability and efficiency. Innovations in thermal management will continue to deliver cleaner, more efficient systems that benefit both the environment and industries.