Multi-Cylinder Opposed-Piston Engine Results on Transient Test Cycle

After having tested basic transient maneuvers such as load-step changes on the 4.9L three-cylinder opposed-piston diesel engine [1], a similar test-engine was subjected to a more aggressive test-routine - a hot-start heavy-duty FTP (Federal Test Procedure) transient cycle for the on-road engines. The three main objectives of this exercise were:

The initial results from the test are encouraging - the BSFC value is within 1.2% of the value derived from running FTP cycle on a steady-state torque-to-fuel map. The engine-out emissions (BSNO_x and BSSoot) levels generated during the test are compatible with US2010 EPA tail-pipe emissions requirements and can be controlled with contemporary after-treatment systems. Furthermore, compared to the MY2011 Cummins ISB 6.7L engine, Achates Power’s OP engine presents a cycle-average BSFC advantage of 18% during hot-start FTP cycle. These results highlight the capabilities of the Achates Power OP engine to successfully run aggressive transient maneuvers without compromising the required performance attributes.