Calibration and complexity

Off-highway engine applications continue to increase in complexity to meet emissions regulations and fuel-economy targets as well as to take advantage of advances in electrification and mechatronics. The model-based calibration process has become the industry standard.

The task facing calibrators is not getting any easier. “The complexity of calibration exploded exponentially when the Tier 4 emissions regulations were introduced,” explained Paolo Di Martino, Business Unit Director for Diesel Systems for IAV North America. “One reason is because each customer decided to solve the Tier 4 problem with its own unique solution. There is no ‘mainstream option,’ but there are multiple solutions, in particular with aftertreatment.” Aftertreatment devices for emissions control include diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC), diesel particulate filters (DPF), and/or selective catalytic reduction (SCR).

Some manufacturers use all three control devices, while others use combinations of some of them. “Each one of these devices is in their own way a prima donna,” Di Martino said. “Each wants their own level of care. Each needs a certain set of incentives to do their job” and need to be calibrated.