What is a Generator Diesel Particulate Filter?

What is a Generator Diesel Particulate Filter?

In the above video, Duthie Power Sales Engineer Mike Goodman explains, “The diesel particulate filter (DFP) is an aftermarket component used to lower the admission (output admission) of the diesel engine. A lot of times this is required by an air resource board in your local district.”

Diesel particulate filters (DPFs) are critical components in diesel engine systems, including those used in emergency backup generators. Their primary function is to reduce the emission of particulate matter (PM), which includes soot and other fine particles, from the exhaust of diesel engines. Here’s an overview of their function and application:

Function of Diesel Particulate Filters

1. Particulate Matter Trapping: DPFs trap and hold particulate matter produced during diesel combustion. This matter primarily consists of soot, a byproduct of incomplete fuel combustion. The filter captures these particles, preventing them from being released into the atmosphere.
2. Regeneration: Over time, the trapped particles accumulate in the filter, which can lead to a buildup of backpressure and reduce engine efficiency. To mitigate this, DPFs undergo a process known as regeneration. Regeneration involves burning off the accumulated soot, converting it into less harmful gases like carbon dioxide. This process can be passive (occurring automatically during normal operation) or active (requiring a specific intervention, such as raising the exhaust temperature).

Application in Emergency Backup Generators

1. Emission Control: Emergency backup generators, especially those in urban or regulated areas, must comply with stringent emission standards to minimize air pollution. DPFs help these generators meet regulations by significantly reducing particulate emissions, making them an essential component for environmentally compliant operation.
2. Health and Environmental Benefits: By reducing particulate emissions, DPFs help lower the amount of harmful pollutants released into the air, which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues in humans and contribute to environmental issues like smog.
3. Compliance with Regulations: Many regions have strict regulations regarding emissions from diesel engines, including those used in backup generators. DPFs are often required to ensure compliance with these standards, especially for stationary engines used in critical infrastructure.
4. Maintenance Considerations: While DPFs are effective in reducing emissions, they do require maintenance, particularly concerning the regeneration process. In some cases, emergency backup generators might not run frequently enough to achieve sufficient temperatures for passive regeneration, requiring active regeneration or manual cleaning.
5. Operational Reliability: In emergency situations, backup generators must function reliably. DPFs must be properly maintained to ensure they do not become clogged, which could impact the generator’s performance. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the DPF are crucial to avoid operational issues during critical periods.

Is a DPF Filter Required on Commercial Generators?

While all of the above points are important and valid in commercial generators with DPFs, a diesel particulate filter is not required on all generators. As Dewey Brunson, Duthie Power’s Head of Service explains, “It is strictly part of the air resource board’s requirements to try and lower the emission levels of a particular diesel generator. You can’t put this on your existing generator if your current level admission is over the allowance by the AQMD.”

For more information on diesel generator filter types and DPFs in particular, you can request a quote or give us a call at 1-800-899-3931.