Volvo Gains California Approval For Tier 3 Exhaust Retrofits

California has granted final approval for Volvo Tier 3 IEGR-equipped machines in that state, following a late-2008 strategic partnership between Volvo

California has granted final approval for Volvo Tier 3 IEGR-equipped machines in that state, following a late-2008 strategic partnership between Volvo Construction Equipment and Palm Springs-based Huss, LLC, to provide retrofit systems for Volvo construction equipment that will significantly reduce exhaust emissions. The Huss MK system, approved for use on Volvo engines utilizing V-ACT technology with internal exhaust gas recirculation (IEGR), meets California’s CARB Level 3+ requirements; accordingly, Volvo equipment owners can utilize the system to help comply with In-Use Off-Road Diesel Vehicle regulations or provide the best available control technology (BACT) for new fleet machines. California’s recent system verification reverses its previous practice of excluding engines using any type of EGR from applying exhaust retrofit technology in the state.

The Huss retrofit system for Volvo equipment is capable of collecting up to 99 percent of diesel particulate matter (PM) emissions, substantially exceeding California CARB requirements. The retrofit system is equipped with a control unit that constantly monitors filter function to regulate diesel PM loading and active filter regeneration accomplished through an integrated fuel burner system. Regeneration typically occurs after about eight to 10 operating hours and is completed in five to 35 minutes (with no external support) during breaks or shift change. Engine exhaust backpressure is set to Volvo requirements.

Besides 99 percent PM reduction, the system ensures no increase of NO2 or other secondary emissions. The Huss technology is adaptable to low- and high-horsepower equipment up to 700 hp, suitable for both rubber-tired and tracked vehicles. The active system eliminates monitoring of exhaust temperature profiles, changing duty cycles, using ULSD fuel, stocking extra filters, or incurring excessive downtime swapping filters.

In addition to environmental benefits, Volvo affirms, the retrofit system offers economic benefits via retention of current fleet vehicles and elimination of total engine replacement. Eligibility for state and federal grants and/or incentives also may be achieved by meeting ever-increasing emissions requirements. Û www.volvo.com