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Hydrogen fuel for underground mining machinery

Journal Article · · SAE Prepr.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.4271/840233· OSTI ID:6496720

A hydrogen engine-fuel system is being developed as an alternative for powering underground mining machinery. A diesel was converted to a spark-ignited hydrogen engine and operated with a metal hydride, solid-state hydrogen storage system. Performance and emissions data show that hydrogen can be used as an ultralow emission fuel for underground mining. A special method of fuel control has overcome abnormal combustion problems frequently experienced with hydrogen fuel. The turbocharged, aftercooled engine maintains NO /SUB x/ emissions (the only significant pollutant) below 0.7 gram per kilowatt-hour. Power and fuel consumption are comparable to the naturally aspirated, prechambered diesel version of the engine. Hydrogen fuel is released from a metal hydride storage container by heat from the engine coolant. Through proper design, hydride containment can limit the leakage of hydrogen, in a worst-case accident, to acceptable levels.

Research Organization:
Eimco Mining Machinery International, Salt Lake City, UT
OSTI ID:
6496720
Journal Information:
SAE Prepr.; (United States), Journal Name: SAE Prepr.; (United States) Vol. 840233; ISSN SEPPA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English