Emissions, efficiency of natural gas-gathering engines investigated

With the proper engine design optimization, extracting natural gas from the ground can be a more efficient, cleaner burning process that results in lower emissions, says a Colorado State University professor who is researching engine technology to collect natural gas.

It is challenging for engine manufacturers to control emissions and engine performance at the wellhead because they can't control the composition of the extracted natural gas, says Daniel Olsen, a mechanical engineering professor in Colorado State's College of Engineering. The natural gas composition (relative amounts of methane, ethane, propane, water, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, etc.) varies widely between wells. The composition of natural gas strongly influences engine performance.

Olsen is working with Cummins Inc., a manufacturer of natural gas and diesel engines, to develop engine technology that enables engines to operate on a wider range of natural gas composition while still maintaining high efficiency, low emissions, and peak performance.

Designing and building a fuel blending system

"It's a real challenge for manufacturers and operators when the fuel properties vary," Olsen said. "We are designing and building a fuel blending system to test different compositions of natural gas so we can quantify the impact on emissions and engine performance variation."

This testing will help Cummins with design specifications for engine applications that involve a variety of fuel compositions. CSU can produce data that will help them develop and specify engines for this application.

Commitment to the environment

Cummins Inc. is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, distributes, and services engines and related technologies, including fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration, emission solutions, and electrical power generation systems.

The company has been recognized for its continued commitment to the environment, and part of Cummins’ corporate mission demands its operations lead to a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment.

Largest lab in North America

CSU’s Engines and Energy Conversion Laboratory is the largest independent laboratory of its kind in North America and has been recognized as a leader in the area of developing new clean and renewable energy technology. Research at the lab has resulted in hundreds of new jobs in the clean-energy industry, which are concentrated largely in Northern Colorado.

"It's research that's applicable to current problems," Olsen said of the engines lab. "It also develops students who are getting unique hands-on experience by solving real-world issues, using state-of-the-art equipment."