Summary of Research Report Findings: Effects of Retrofit Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) on Diesel Emissions
The following article is a summary based off of the 2022 research report: “The effects of retrofit diesel particulate filters on diesel particulate emissions: A small scale intervention study” by Ludwick Tshegofatso Lebaka at Wits University.
The research explored the effectiveness of retrofitting Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) to diesel-powered machinery in an underground platinum mine in Limpopo, South Africa. Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM) from diesel engines poses a significant health risk, particularly in confined spaces such as underground mines.
This study aimed to determine how well DPFs reduce these harmful emissions.
Key Findings of the report
1. Significant Emission Reduction:
The DPF systems reduced particulate mass emissions by an average of 84% and particle number concentration by 97%. This shows that DPFs are highly effective in filtering harmful particles from diesel exhaust.
2. Health Benefits:
The study showed a significant decrease in workers’ exposure to Elemental Carbon (EC), which is a key component of DPM. Before retrofitting, personal exposure levels were much higher, with some reaching 338 µg/m3, but post-retrofitting, exposure dropped to 16.7 µg/m3, highlighting the positive impact on worker health.
3. Stable Performance Over Time:
The DPFs maintained consistent performance even 256 days after installation, showing that they provide long-term benefits in reducing emissions without significant deterioration.
4. Effective Regeneration:
The study highlighted that DPFs performed better during hot engine operation, effectively regenerating and clearing trapped soot. However, regeneration efficiency dropped slightly when the engine was cold.
Conclusion of study
Retrofitting DPFs on diesel-powered machinery significantly reduces harmful diesel emissions and protects workers’ health in high-risk environments like underground mining. The use of these filters is a critical intervention to improve air quality and safety standards in industries that rely heavily on diesel-powered equipment.
How can your business take action?
Based off the above findings, your business, staff and the environment will only benefit from installing Diesel Particulate Filters on your mining machines. Being proactive is key and therefor John Ratcliffe is ready with the DPF solution that fits your needs.
Contact us at enquiries@johnratcliffe.co.za for more information or a quote, or visit our Emissions Quality page for more on our solutions.
When your mine runs diesel, run with Ratcliffe!
