CO₂ hot water system slashes dairy shed energy costs
A Taupo company says it's the first to bring CO₂-powered water heating technology to New Zealand dairy sheds, helping farmers cut energy costs by up to 85%.
The tractor is a collaboration between Deutz AG and the Rostock University, using a converted standard diesel engine, and achieving big reductions in pollutants but with no loss in performance.
The prototype 5120C, which can also run on renewable natural gas, was first tested in September 2015, both parties claiming success and many insights into the development of gas engines.
They used a diesel powered Deutz TCD 3.6L engine, replacing its injection system with spark ignition, and adding seven tanks for CNG storage of 236L, most notably in the cab's rear C pillars. Researchers commented there was room to mount one further tank to take capacity to 316L (60kg) of CNG, which equated to around 77L of diesel.
Although this gives a shorter range than the diesel burner, CO2 emissions were down by up to 14%, NOx was reduced by over 90%, and particulates were reduced dramatically. Interestingly, the tractors already meet the yet-to-be-introduced Tier V emission levels, without the need for any Ad-Blue or diesel particulate (DPF) treatments.
