Application of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) will become necessary for trapping diesel particulate matter especially with stringent Emission Legislation of Euro IV and beyond. While developing a DPF, conflicting requirements like low-pressure drop, high thermal durability, high compressive strength, high trapping efficiency and practical regeneration needs to be considered.
This paper focuses on the development and optimization of cost effective ceramic based DPFs for a diesel utility vehicle. The effect of DPF diameter, length, cell density and wall thickness on the pressure drop in fresh as well as soot laden conditions are evaluated, based on which the final size of DPF is determined. Special attention to substrate making, coating, canning, temperature and pressure feedback is given. Strategies for DPF regeneration like catalyzed and additive regeneration are evaluated.
The optimized DPF system is fitted to a 2600 cc diesel utility vehicle and tested for performance, durability and continuous regeneration. Results of engine dynamometer, chassis dynamometer and road trials are discussed.