Cummins Newsroom: Education and Thought Leadership

Benefits of alternative fuels and fuel-flexibility

by Aytek Yuksel, Content Marketing Leader - Power Systems
A pair of cupped hands holds a mound of soil, out of which grows a small plant. An outline of a light bulb is drawn around the plant.

Internal combustion engines using traditional and alternative fuels are an integral part of life in all parts of the world. They are almost universally used in motor vehicles of all kinds, in power generation, and more. Traditionally, internal combustion engines run on liquid fuels. These fuels are distilled from petroleum. Think gasoline, diesel, kerosene or heavy fuel oil. 

What are alternative fuels?

Liquid fossil fuels are convenient and affordable, but they are not the only fuels that engines can burn. In fact, alternative fuels have been available for as long as internal combustion engines have existed. For example, vehicles running on a fuel known as wood gas were widely used during World War II. This allowed to save fuel needed for the war effort. Wood gas was generated by the incomplete combustion of wood chips. The process would take place in a sort of large kettle. The kettle could be placed on a trailer behind a vehicle, and from there piped to the vehicle's engine. 

Today, few vehicles run on wood gas, but many other alternative fuels are available, and several more are being developed. Some, such as compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquid petroleum gas (LPG—a mix of propane and butane), are derived from fossil fuels. Others, such as renewable diesel, biodiesel, ethanol and biogas are obtained from energy crops or from organic waste. You can check out what are the low carbon fuels to learn more.  

Advances in chemical engineering and other disciplines have also made it possible to synthesize methane, hydrogen, diesel and more from non-fossil feedstock such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and water using renewable electricity. These synthetic fuels are sometimes known as e-fuels. You can check out what are power-to-x and e-fuels to learn more.

Renewable diesel can be used as drop-in replacements. For most engines, no modification is required. Biodiesels must be blended with fossil diesel to be used in standard compression ignition (CI) engines. Ethanol-basically, alcohol-can also be used in traditional SI (spark ignition) vehicles when it is blended with gasoline. Ethanol blending is extremely common. More than 98% of all gasoline sold in the United States contain a significant proportion of ethanol. 

For example, The Cummins Inc. Ethos spark ignited engine can run E85 (85% ethanol) without any modification. Meanwhile, engines capable of running flex fuel can use a blend of gasoline and ethanol from 51% to 83% (E85). Vehicles with this capability, known as fuel-flex vehicles, are not rare-according to the U.S. Department of Energy, there are more than 21 million fuel-flex vehicles driving on US roads. 

What is fuel flexibility?

Fuel flexibility is also an option for equipment owners who wish to use CNG or LPG as an alternative to gasoline. Either can be achieved with the addition of a separate fuel system and the addition of a new set of fuel injectors in the engine. Owners of dual-fuel vehicles can thus run on CNG, and, if no CNG fueling station is nearby when the gaseous fuel runs out, continue driving on gasoline. 

Alternative fuels are not just for road vehicles. Agricultural machinery, mining equipment, ships, locomotives, and other vehicles can all potentially benefit from using alternative fuels. Alternative fuels are also an option for stationary internal combustion engines. Stationary engines are commonly used in industrial applications such as oil and gas extraction or power generation. Power plant owners can more easily meet their operational and financial objectives when they have the option to use either traditional diesel, biodiesel or natural gas in their power plant. Power plants based on reciprocating engine power generators, for example, can start their engines on natural gas. Once the engines are running, they can be switched to biodiesel, allowing net CO2-free operation.

Businesses operating fleets of vehicles are constantly making tradeoffs between multiple objectives such as reducing capital costs, reducing maintenance costs, reducing fuel costs, and reducing emissions, while taking into consideration range and refueling constraints, among others. Adopting the use of an alternative fuel can help further one or more of those objectives. 

Environmental benefits of alternative fuels

Using an alternative fuel can be a good way to reduce carbon emissions. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon into the atmosphere that was previously stored underground. 

Biofuels, in contrast, release the carbon which was taken from the atmosphere by the crops that they are made from. This is why biofuels are thought of as net-CO2 free fuels. Similarly, renewable natural gas fuel produced from landfill, or sewer gas can be considered as a fuel with negative carbon intensity.

For businesses who wish to reduce their carbon footprint, alternative fuels present a variety of options. Switching to CNG or LPG can result in significant CO2 reductions, despite their fossil nature. Using a fuel with a greater ethanol or biodiesel content can also be effective. For businesses seeking further reductions in CO2 emissions, full conversions to biodiesel, hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), ethanol, renewable natural gas, or even hydrogen, or an e-fuel may also be an option. 

Besides CO2, internal combustion engines emit other gases in their exhaust. Most businesses should be concerned by the non-carbon emissions of their vehicle fleets. Clean-burning alternative fuels can help in that regard. In some cases, for example, converting a diesel truck to run on CNG can be more cost effective in the long run than investing in diesel exhaust emissions control equipment. 

In certain industries, additionally, non-carbon emissions pose a specific set of problems. These problems can lead to transformative solutions designed around an alternative fuel. Mines, for example, require a powerful ventilation system in order to maintain a safe and breathable environment. With heavy machinery operating underground, this is no easy task. Operating that ventilation system can be very costly and consume a lot of energy. These considerations have led several mining companies to explore options to fuel this machinery with hydrogen. Using hydrogen as a fuel would result in no emissions at all, and thus far smaller ventilation needs.

Economical benefits of alternative fuels

Traditional fossil fuels such as gasoline and diesel are generally convenient and affordable, but there are situations where alternative fuels are cheaper. Natural gas, specifically, has been consistently cheaper than gasoline and diesel when measured on a gasoline gallon equivalent basis. Operators of city buses, dumpster trucks and other commercial vehicles have saved millions of dollars by converting their fleets to run on CNG. 

Biogas can be used to generate electricity and heat for the water treatment process

In addition to being low, the price of natural gas is also stable over time. Natural gas prices tend to avoid the cyclical price fluctuations that petroleum-based fuels such as gasoline experience. As a result, owners of compressed natural gas vehicles enjoy operating costs that are both lower and more predictable.

Maintenance and other advantages of alternative fuels

Alternative fuels present a variety of other advantages. Here are some additional benefits:

  • Shelf life: Unlike gasoline and diesel, natural gas and propane have an unlimited shelf life, as do hydrogen and ammonia-based e-fuels. This is also true of several newer biodiesel and synthetic diesel formulations, which can last up to 10 years. 
  • Environmental compatibility: Biodiesel and renewable diesel are also biodegradable, non-toxic and produce less fumes. Likewise, LPG and natural gas are not likely to result in any soil or water contamination if spilled, since they would simply vaporize.
  • Reduced maintenance needs: Natural gas and propane tend to burn cleaner than liquid fuels. A lesser amount of soot thus makes its way into the engine’s oil. Some operators take advantage of this by extending oil change intervals. When a large fleet of vehicles are involved, this can easily result in a savings of tens of thousands of dollars or more.
  • Performance: Biodiesel and ethanol blends also have higher cetane and octane ratings than unblended diesel or gasoline, providing improved performance and acceleration. This is one of the reasons why; in the United States, NASCAR advertises its use of a blend of ethanol and gasoline containing 15% of ethanol—significantly more than the average fuel available at the pump.

Alternative fuels are far more common than many people realize. Several types of alternative fuels with a proven track record are available and, when deployed judiciously, can help businesses meet their environmental and cost reduction objectives.

Benefits of alternative fuels specific to your business

Your business has distinct characteristics and needs. As a result, you might find some of these alternative fuels more valuable than others. There are also other factors such as fuel availability, use case, and local regulations that you need to consider. 

These additional factors often are more localized. You can benefit from working with a partner knowledgeable in these local aspects and understand your business more intimately. We recommend you reach out to a local partner to find the best fit solution for your business and needs. 

Alternative fuels’ compatibility with different engines

Whether you are in marine, mining, rail, power generation or another sector, you may be wondering if your equipment is compatible with different alternative fuels. Please work with your Cummins partner to find the most up to date information about your engines and alternative fuels available for your needs.
 

Etiquetas
Sustainability Power Systems Business Segment Power Generation

Newsroom Home

Aytek Yuksel - Cummins Inc

Aytek Yuksel

Aytek Yuksel is the Content Marketing Leader for Cummins Inc., with a focus on Power Systems markets. Aytek joined the Company in 2008. Since then, he has worked in several marketing roles and now brings you the learnings from our key markets ranging from industrial to residential markets. Aytek lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota with his wife and two kids.

Cummins Newsroom: Education and Thought Leadership

STEM Project Unites Children in the UK and Uzbekistan

by Cummins Europe, Global Power Technology Leader
Zoom call with West Park School and the Children's Home

If you ever doubted the ability of young minds to grasp what many adults would consider complex concepts, then you'll be amazed by the achievements of two groups of young children - one in a school in northern England, and the other 4,000 miles away in an orphanage in Uzbekistan.

With the support of Cummins, children ranging from six to twelve years of age have managed to bridge the language, culture, and time divide. They are collaborating with great success on building a basic electric racing car.

The story begins with a visit by Cummins to Rudmash Export Service, which has been representing Cummins in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, since 2018.

Rudmash has an impressive list of clients in mining, construction, gas, and power generation.

It is also a highly respected supporter of community initiatives, a key focus for Cummins.

During the visit, Amit Kumar, Cummins' Technical Territory Manager for the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region, mentioned the work he was doing with local schools involving the Greenpower Education Trust in the UK.

Amit suggested that Rudmash might consider introducing local children to the fantastic learning opportunity that comes from building an electric car.

The Rudmash executive team loved the idea and reached out to their friends at the local orphanage (Children’s Home 22), about the proposed connection with children from West Park Academy – a primary school near Cummins' manufacturing plant in Darlington, England.

Students at the Children's Home working on the car
The children from Children's Home 22 building the car

Speaking through a translator, Rudmash Sales Manager Mr. Mavlonberdi Akhmedov said there was no hesitation from the orphanage. "Everyone was excited about it," he said. "When we showed them pictures of the car, the children's eyes lit up with interest.

"The only issue we encountered was not being able to involve the older children, but I think Amit has something in his mind for them. It will involve a similar collaboration with a UK school on a larger electric car that they can fit in!"

Over in Darlington, teacher Mr. David Fraser and his group of 9 to 11-year-olds were thrilled at the prospect of working with children from another country.

Students from West Park Academy
The children from West Park Academy

"Before our first session, I showed the children a map of Uzbekistan and explained how the time zones worked," Mr. Fraser said. "Tashkent is four hours ahead of us."

"When they started hearing a different language, they were a little hesitant although still excited. However, towards the end, once they got used to the translation pauses, lots of questions were being asked."

"They adapted very quickly, and every session with the orphanage has become more engaging. The children have greatly benefited from the relationship. It's been a great learning experience."

The car involved in the project is called the Greenpower Goblin G2. It comes as a flat-pack kit including chassis, wheels, steering, disc brakes, a 24V electric motor, and two 12V batteries.

Students at West Park Academy working on the car
The children from West Park Academy building the car

"The project is all about inspiring young children to take an interest in engineering in a fun and innovative way," said Amit Kumar, who earlier this year received special recognition at the North-East England STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Awards for his years of dedication to STEM Education.

"The build introduces children to basic mechanics and electronics and might be the first step on the pathway to a career in engineering or another STEM field.

Mr. Fraser said the children soon started discussing aspects of the car such as frames, brakes, and steering geometry. There was a lively question-and-answer session on different materials that could be used to design and make the car's body. Their last session was about controls and driving.

"There are also other general discussions, as the children are eager to learn more about each other's countries," said Amit, who leads the sessions.

Students at the Children's Home looking at the car drawing
The children from Children's Home 22 talking about a drawing while on a zoom call

Rudmash service engineer Mr. Abdullayev Shakhzod said the children were enjoying the experience of working in teams.

"It's a fantastic new chapter in the history of a place that has a storied past. It was established in 1942 during the Second World War to care for evacuees from all over Eastern Europe. Children of over 40 different nationalities have been cared for by this children's home.

"The home is named Antonina Pavlovna Khlebushkina after the woman who ran it in the early days. She would be so proud of what is happening there today.

"As the summer vacation times differ in the two countries, the West Park school children have already finished building their cars, while the Uzbekistan car is about 40% complete.

"When the children return from their summer camp in September, they will start the rear axle, motor, and electrical components. Then they can take it for a drive," Amit said.

"Just before their summer term ended, the West Park children conducted a demonstration for their new friends in Tashkent. They set up a track and showcased driving the car on it. It was a great success."

Mr. Akhmedov, speaking through a translator, mentioned that the management team at Rudmash was considering how the project could expand beyond the children's home and into schools and youth organizations throughout Uzbekistan.

Mr. Akhmedov praised Cummins for their support of the project. "They have shown great responsibility at every stage and been very proactive, always striving to ensure things are done right.

"This is just the beginning for these children. It's already motivating them to learn more and develop their skills in broader technical applications.

"I would say that this project is not only important for the children's home but also for our city of Tashkent and the Republic of Uzbekistan, as it is nurturing an educational culture that is highly valuable. I can't thank Amit and Cummins enough."

Amit expressed that it's a privilege to help Cummins inspire young people about engineering and science from an early age.

Newsroom Home

Cummins Newsroom: Education and Thought Leadership

How is the United States investing in clean energy?

by Traci Kraus, Director, Government Relations
GR hero

Our planet is facing a dire crisis: carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere continue to soar above record highs. If gone unaddressed, the collective stress of climate change will produce an irreparable impact. Our health, energy, water, and food ecosystems are at risk. 

As it stands, there are many long-term effects of climate change. In North America, climate change is forecasted to cause decreasing snowpack in the western mountains. It will also lead to a 5–20% increase in yields of rain-fed agriculture and great intensity of heat waves. In fact, over the last five years, the United States has incurred roughly $120 billion a year in damages as a result of natural disasters caused by extreme weather and climate events.

Beyond natural catastrophes, climatic risks to the United States will have a cascading effect on the country's interconnected ecosystems. Reduced labor and overall economic productivity, and altered crop yields, will disproportionately harm lower-income and marginalized populations. These groups lack the resources to prepare or cope with extreme weather and climate events.

The world is investing in clean energy innovation

Combating the intensifying climate crisis requires a strategic combination of research and development (R&D), innovation, technology — and bold attempts.

Around the globe, countries are investing in clean energy to contribute to a livable planet now and for generations to come. In 2022, the US passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which includes a historic $370 billion investment to address the climate crisis. The Inflation Reduction Act provides tax credits and incentives to power homes, businesses, and communities with clean energy by 2030. The Act will increase investments in the fastest-growing power generation technologies, solar and wind. It will also advance cost-saving clean energy projects and protect two million acres of national forests. These initiatives are in addition to substantial tax credits and rebates offered to families and businesses in the United States.
Consequently, a stronger clean energy economy will contribute to overall economic growth and competition. As a result, there will be millions of new well-paying jobs for Americans to make clean energy.

It is possible to start decarbonizing now

Governmental policy strategies and investments in decarbonization technologies are part of the solution to produce increasingly cheap, dependable, and clean energy.

Strong communities and vibrant economies depend on a healthier planet. As a global power technology leader, Cummins is in a unique position to power customer success by leading during this energy transition. We intent to do so by providing customers with the right technology at the right time, understanding of their needs and applications.

We think of this journey to carbon neutrality in two distinct and complementary ways. First, by innovating zero-emission solutions and introducing them in markets and applications where the infrastructure, development and deployment are ready. Secondly, by advancing internal combustion engines through efficiency improvement and by running them on cleaner alternative fuels for a well-to-wheels solution.

Through Destination Zero, we are advancing low- and no-carbon platforms. This includes diesel and natural gas engines, hybrid, and electric platforms, as well as powertrain components, controls, and related technologies.

Join Cummins in powering a better tomorrow

Cummins environmental sustainability strategy includes goals timed for 2030. Progress toward the reduction of carbon emissions from company plants and facilities — in addition to our products — is in full swing. For more than one hundred years, we have brought technological solutions to market. As a power solutions leader, we will continue to power a more prosperous world for today and tomorrow. Are you ready to consider investing in new power solutions?

Etiquetas
Sustainability Destination Zero Environmental, Social, Governance

Newsroom Home

Traci Kraus headshot

Traci Kraus

Traci Kraus is a Director of Government Relations where she leads US federal advocacy for Cummins. She focuses on energy, climate, hydrogen, transportation and budget legislative and regulatory issues. 

Prior to joining Cummins, Traci worked for former U.S. Senator Russ Feingold.  She has a Master's in Public Administration from the George Washington University and B.A.s in Government and Politics and Communication from the University of Maryland in College Park. She is originally from Chicago, and now lives outside of Washington, D.C. with her husband, Aaron and two children Liam (8) and Sloane (5).

Redirigir a
cummins.com

La información que busca está en
cummins.com

Estamos lanzando ese sitio para usted ahora.

Gracias.