The Challenge
A California based anaerobic digester developer needed a cost effective closed crankcase ventilation system that was tailored to fit Caterpillar 3516 engines. The engines are used for Biogas energy applications for dairy farms and other commercial facilities. Their previous set up required two units per engine and expensive custom adapter plates for attaching their existing units. Finding an off the shelf solution with a proven track record and working with a hands-on partner to provide a more cost-effective solution were the key decision drivers for the developer.
The Solution
Solberg offered its ACV Series Advanced Crankcase Ventilation System as an economical solution with a one-piece bracket that bolts directly to the engine. The standard Solberg ACV system and bracket were supplied requiring no additional adapter plates, simplifying the install. A customer specific kit was created allowing the developer to easily reorder components for future projects.
Results
With the ACV retrofit, the developer was able to reduce their overall cost on the crankcase ventilation system while eliminating additional components. The developer was satisfied with the results and has partnered with Solberg for future Bioenergy projects. Based on the success with the ACV project, the developer asked Solberg to assist with cleaning up the raw biogas. Solberg provided multiple stainless-steel liquid knockout filters / gas scrubbers to clean the biogas prior to entering the engine.
The Product
The ACV is designed to protect your engine’s turbo, coolers, and inlet air filters as well as help ensure environmental compliance while keeping engine rooms clean, safe & free of oil mist. The series comes standard with industry leading automated vacuum control technology to regulate crankcase pressure and prevent seal leakage. The replaceable
filter element contains a proprietary media pack offering exceptional efficiency levels with an extremely long life, allowing operators up to one year before an element change is required.
Solberg Products Provided