On-road evaluation of an integrated SCR and continuously regenerating trap exhaust system

Four-way, integrated, diesel emission control systems that combine selective catalytic reduction for NOx control with a continuously regenerating trap to remove diesel particulate matter were evaluated under real-world, on-road conditions. Tests were conducted using a semi-tractor with an emissions year 2000, 6-cylinder, 12 L, Volvo engine rated at 287 kW at 1800 rpm and 1964 N-m. The emission control system was certified for retrofit application on-highway trucks, model years 1994 through 2002, with 4-stroke, 186-373 kW (250-500 hp) heavy-duty diesel engines without exhaust gas recirculation. The evaluations were unique because the mobile laboratory platform enabled evaluation under real-world exhaust plume dilution conditions as opposed to laboratory dilution conditions. Real-time plume measurements for NOx, particle number concentration and size distribution were made and emission control performance was evaluated on-road. Tests were conducted at highway speeds with ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel, and the results were compared to tests without an emission control system. It was shown that the 4-way emission control system was capable of reducing particle emissions by more than 99 % to levels not detectable above background. Simultaneously, NOx emissions were reduced between 80 and 90 %.