A new platinum-rhodium three-way catalyst system for LPG-powered forklift trucks has been developed which will aid their operations in tight areas.

The retrofit emission controlling system, produced by Nett Technologies, incorporates a catalytic muffler, oxygen sensor and a digital air-to-fuel ratio controller.

It is designed to improve the harmful pollution from forklifts by removing carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons from their exhaust fumes.

The platinum-rhodium catalyst is built into the muffler and has been specifically produced to easily replace the original mufflers featuring on the vehicles.

As part of the kit, the digital air-to-fuel ratio controller is also installed and it operates by receiving a feedback signal from a zirconia oxygen sensor within the muffler.

The controller attains the stoichiometric air-to-fuel ratio by making use of a solenoid valve that regulates the amount of fuel passed into the mixer by applying varying pressures on the membrane.

Nett's development is significant because the systems traditionally used on LPG forklifts are not particularly effective at controlling nitrous oxide emissions.

Furthermore, lean-biased controllers - which have often been used in an attempt to reduce carbon monoxide emissions - actually have the side-effect of increasing NOx output.

Another result of installing the new system - detailed in a report on ferret.com.au - is that the forklifts are able to obtain greater fuel efficiency.

The development is likely to be welcomed by truck drivers at a time when governments are becoming increasingly focused on imposing stricter regulations for harmful auto emissions.

Three-way catalyst systems for LPG-powered forklift trucks available from Norman G Clark (19/06/09)

Ÿ Adfero Ltd