Breathe Easy

July 1, 2007
Nett Technologies Inc. (Mississauga, On.) has received verification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for its proprietary advanced BlueCAT

Nett Technologies Inc. (Mississauga, On.) has received verification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for its proprietary advanced BlueCAT Closed-Loop Catalyst System. CARB has verified the system for its mobile sources LSI-2 measure. The verification covers specific LSI (large spark ignited [over 25 hp]) engines, model years 1990 through 2001 used in unregulated off-road applications operating on propane (LPG) fuel. Model years 2001 through 2004 are also covered for non-complying phase-in engines. The BlueCAT Closed-Loop Catalyst System employs a high performance 3-way catalytic converter and a dynamic digital air-fuel ratio controller to reduce emissions of uncontrolled engines to 1.5g/hp-hr of NOx + HC, consistent with a Level 3a classification. Specific engine criteria for which the BlueCAT system has been approved may be found in the Interim Verification Letter which will be posted on the CARB website (http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/offroad/orspark/verdev.htm).

CARB's off-road LSI measures are primarily targeted toward lift trucks, however, also include other LSI engine powered equipment. Estimates of the number of uncontrolled LSI engines in California to be retrofitted range from 10,000 to 20,000. The engines used in the majority of these applications are similar to or derived from early 1980s automobile engines. NOx (oxides of nitrogen) and HC (hydrocarbons) emissions from these engines are considerably higher than that of today's automobiles. It is these NOx and HC emissions that contribute most strongly to the formation of smog, often visible in large urban centers. Smog is also a significant health concern as it can inflame breathing passages, and can cause eye and nose irritation, shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. The reduction in NOx and HC emissions from LSI engines may improve working conditions inside buildings as well as reducing smog formation in the environment.