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The primary objective of this project was for Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) to demonstrate components material advancements to natural gas prime mover technology that would enhance the use and improve the economics of spark-ignited natural gas-fueled reciprocating engines for power generation, cogeneration, space conditioning, heat pump, and mobile applications.

Specifically, 3 valve seat and 3 valve face materials were installed in a Caterpillar 3516 natural gas engine generator set and operated for over 9,000 hours. Two different silicon nitride materials were utilized for the valve seats, as well as the stock Eatonite metallic inserts. Stellite 1 faced, Stellite 6 faced, and unfaced valves were evaluated. SwRI designed a test matrix to allow comparison of all three valve face materials in combination with all three valve seat insert materials.

Statistical valve recession predictions established using the valve recession data demonstrate valve lash adjustment and cylinder head overhaul intervals can be increased by 50 to 60 percent with the use of ceramic valve seat inserts. In addition, this interval improvement can be obtained using lower cost Stellite 6 faced valves compared to the higher cost Stellite 1 faced valves.

For more information about the evaluation of wear resistant ceramic valve seats in gas-fueled power generation engines capabilities at SwRI or how you can contract with SwRI, please contact Mark Tussing at mtussing@swri.org or (210) 522-2628.
 

| Design and Development | Engine, Emissions & Vehicle Research Division | SwRI Home |

Southwest Research Institute® (SwRI®), headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, is a multidisciplinary, independent, nonprofit, applied engineering and physical sciences research and development organization with 11 technical divisions.

September 19, 2008