DB ESG, a provider of rolling stock engineering solutions, has received funding from InnovateUK to look at the effect of hydrogen-powered carbon clean and capture on the exhaust emissions of an engine.
The project aims to assess the potential of prolonging the life of internal combustion engines while improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.
The funding, provided by the Department for Business and Trade, comes through the ‘Contracts for Innovation: International Rail Innovation Challenges’ competition, managed by InnovateUK.
James Hornsby, Projects Director at DB ESG said:We hope this investigation will bring both economic and environmental benefits. With more than 5,000 diesel engines currently active in the UK alone, decarbonising the rail sector is imperative to meet carbon emission targets.
DB ESG is collaborating with Advanced Hydrogen Technologies (AHT), a cleantech specialist, for this initiative.
The trial will involve the deployment of AHT’s hydrogen and carbon capture device on a Class 66 locomotive. DB ESG will oversee testing, evaluating the impact of the technology on exhaust emissions and fuel consumption.
Ben Kattenhorn, CEO for AHT, said:This pioneering system reduces carbon footprint and fuel costs and is already proven on road. We are looking forward to further establishing this technology in the rail sector. Helping businesses and the rail industry meet their Net Zero targets, has never been more timely.
Initial testing will involve measuring fuel economy and exhaust emissions under varying engine speeds using a load bank.
Subsequent tests will evaluate the effects of hydrogen injection into the air intake and the addition of a carbon capture device at the exhaust outlet. The findings will inform potential sustainability benefits and cost efficiencies for the rail sector.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to support the decarbonisation of rail transport, providing insights into how existing diesel engines can operate with reduced environmental impact.
