Significant particulate emission reductions of diesel engines can be achieved using diesel particulate filters (DPFs). Ceramic wall flow filters with a PM efficiency of >90% have proven to be effective components in emission control. The challenge for the application lies with the development and adaptation of a reliable regeneration strategy. The main focus is emission efficiency over the legally required durability periods, as well as over the useful vehicle life.
It will be shown, that new DPF systems are characterized by a high degree of integration with the engine management system, to allow for initiation of the regeneration and its control for optimum DPF protection. Using selected cases, the optimum combination and tuning will be demonstrated for successful regenerations, taking into account DPF properties. For example, high DPF durability, good DPF regenerability, and low system pressure drop are balanced with engine based parameters like air mass flow, exhaust gas temperature, and exhaust oxygen content. Advanced system control techniques, such as tuning and optimization will be presented and discussed. New possibilities of the application of new robust and cost effective DPF systems will be shown.