Hydrogen energy unit improves diesel engine performance

The HYDI system supplies hydrogen gas directly to a diesel engine’s intake, improving fuel efficiency

Spotted: South Australian company HYDI’s hydrogen gas supply units work with existing diesel engines to reduce emissions and increase efficiency. Designed specifically to improve the environmental impact of heavy vehicle transport fleets, the HYDI units are independently tested and validated by a team at the University of South Australia.

Hydrogen is produced via electrolysis when the engine is running. Housed in a relatively small stainless steel container, the HYDI system supplies hydrogen gas directly to a diesel engine’s intake. Because hydrogen ignites much faster than the traditional air-diesel mix and burns incredibly hotly, fuel use becomes far more efficient. Fuel consumption reduces by almost 10 per cent and particulate emissions by 70 per cent. Over a period of time, the units could help businesses significantly reduce service costs and maintenance time.

Demineralised water is the only liquid stored in the units. Integrated electronics, including Bluetooth, monitors the production of the gas and provides real-time oversight. Development work includes expanding the use the technology into industries such as maritime and rail travel, as well as in pumping stations and generator plants.

The search for a commercially successful, energy-efficient biofuel continues to push forward the sustainability agenda. Two methods Springwise recently spotted for creating new fuels include improved production processes for manufacturing biobutanol and a hydrogen production unit that runs off any kind of waste.

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