Komatsu To Develop Diesel Particulate Filters For Construction Machinery

18 October 2007

Nikkei. Construction machinery maker Komatsu Ltd. will develop diesel particulate filters (DPFs) for use in its  equipment, according to company sources. The start of production of the DPFs is targeted for 2010.

The firm considers DPF devices, which employ catalysts to remove particulate matter from exhaust gas, to be the linchpin of its efforts to meet the new emissions standards. The restrictions on gas emissions from construction machinery, which will gradually take effect from 2011 in Japan, the US and Europe, require that particulate matter and nitrogen oxides be reduced to 10% of the ceiling set in the current rules.

Komatsu reportedly will purchase ceramic parts and catalysts for DPFs from outside sources and develop control technology enabling efficient use of the catalysts. Komatsu will also utilize the control technology of Cummins Inc., its partner in the engine business.

Komatsu is also developing new engines to satisfy the new emissions rules. The decision to develop and produce DPFs is in line with the firm’s policy of manufacturing engines, hydraulic equipment and other key parts of construction machinery.