EPA-certified low emission kit for Cat 3500 series

The kits are designed to be fitted during engine overhaul, and enable existing engines to achieve a 25% reduction in PM emissions, among other reductions. By replacing the mechanical unit injector (MUI) system and other associated components on the engine, the upgrade kits are said to offer owners of US-flagged vessels an in-hull solution that exceeds EPA requirements, and offers additional operational benefits. As an example, an upgrade from a mechanical to an electronic EPA Tier 1 or Tier 2 configured engine can result in numerous operational improvements. These benefits include smoother overall operation, lower vibration and noise levels, significant fuel savings, superior brake specific fuel consumption in middle power ranges, plus improved diagnostic and display capabilities.

Bay Area tug and barge operator Harley Marine Services is one of the first customers in North America to instal emissions kits on six Cat 3516B marine engines in three different tugs, upgrading each vessel from EPA Tier 0 to Tier 2 while simultaneously improving efficiency.

“The advantages of utilising a 3500 emissions upgrade are attractive for many of our customers,” said Randy Richter, parts and service support representative for Cat dealer Peterson. “The customer doesn’t have to take his vessel out of the water, get the hull cut, and have the old engine removed to fit an engine with a different footprint than the one it replaces. It allows our customers to proactively incorporate compliant power solutions into their vessel while minimising vessel down time.”