September 24, 2001—The Department of Energy has selected six leading universities for cost-shared grants covering seven reciprocating engine projects. Funded by DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the projects focus on improving medium-speed (between 1,200-1,800 revolutions per minute) natural gas engines for distributed energy applications. DOE is investing $3.6 million of the projects’ combined value of $4.6 million.
“This project will produce cleaner, more energy-efficient and less expensive natural gas reciprocating engines for use by industry,” said Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham. “Cleaner burning engines will reduce air pollution and contribute to a healthier environment.”
University researchers will test engines and produce analytical computer models to upgrade designs of engines, pistons, piston rings and cylinder liners as well as improve ignition systems and reduce friction. In addition, researchers will seek a more comprehensive understanding of ignition systems, especially at the point of ignition and the beginning of the power cycle.
The goals of the Advanced Reciprocating Engines Project are to increase energy efficiency of medium-size natural gas engines from the current 34 percent – 38 percent to 50 percent, reduce nitrogen oxides emissions from one gram per horsepower-hour to 0.1 of a gram per horsepower-hour, and reduce operating and maintenance costs by 10 percent below today’s costs for modern engines.
For more information, including a list of the participating universities, contact the Department of Energy.
