| New device for precise particle measurement in diesel
engine exhaust gases
MAHA Maschinenbau Haldenwang
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MPM-4 measurement unit |
MAHA has developed the new MPM-4 measurement unit for this
purpose. Its high measurement accuracy is a distinguishing feature.
“MPM” stands for diesel particle measurement system. The unit is
extremely small (about the size of a shoe box) and therefore easy to
handle and – most importantly – reliable for use in the workshop. Its
price is competitive with traditional exhaust gas measuring
equipment. This innovation also demonstrates MAHA’s capacity for
developments for general vehicle inspections, which will be one of
the leading future objectives.
Measurement Principle and internal MAHA Development
The measurement procedure analyses the exhaust flow. The particle
concentration is displayed as mg/m3. As a result of many years of
development at MAHA, a principle of measurement and a device
have been produced which can detect very small particles (smaller
than 0.001 mm) in the exhaust flow with sufficient accuracy,
determine their concentration and display the result by electronic
processing. In the principle applied the measurement of exhaust gas
opacity is combined with the detection of these tiny particles using
lasers. The greater precision and reliability has been proven in
comprehensive series of tests. Already in 2004 MAHA completed a
concept study on the measurement of fine particulate in diesel
exhaust. The time after that was used to create an optimal
instrumental implementation with superior user friendliness.
The Importance of Precise Measurement
The effective, precise determination of fine particulates in the
emissions of diesel engines, which are common in vehicles today,
serves to protect human health on one hand. Recognised exposure
limits for damage to health can now be quantified. On the other
hand, only in this manner can the statutory limits - which may
become stricter in the future - be measured. The basic principle that
only accurate measurement results allow meaningful evaluations also
applies here.
Particular Characteristics of Diesel Engines
Diesel engines in newer vehicles (not just passenger vehicles, but also
the large number of trucks and other commercial vehicles) usually
have inherently lower emissions. The poorer emission quality of older
engines or the effect of particle filters can now be shown more
precisely than before. It has been found that the emission values of
engines can be reduced up to 80% with good maintenance and that
properly working filters remove more than 95% of the particles
generated. Proving such qualities is now easier with the MPM-4.
MAHA Universality
The MPM-4 from MAHA is thus not only an effective measuring unit
for the current evaluation of individual engines, but also
demonstrates that MAHA intends to expand its product range for
exhaust gas measurement technology and is able to do so. Moreover,
this measurement method is already used by the Australian
government as a measure for reducing the diesel particle
concentration.
Quality – from the very beginning to tomorrow
As a pioneer in the field of brake testing technology, Maha has
specialised in the testing of safety-relevant components and driving
properties of all types of vehicles for over three decades.
MAHA has been active in vehicle lifting technology with great
success for over 25 years. Our very own production facilities are the
assurance that MAHA products maintain a consistently high quality
standard.
With a team of over 1000 employees, our engineers and technicians
provide answers and solutions for all questions involving vehicle
safety testing and lifting technology. Our clients include vehicle
manufacturers, test organisations, governments and workshops. Our
extensive sales network guarantees an efficient worldwide service
readiness and timely spare part supply. Ongoing expansion of our
worldwide presence and strengthening of our service network is our
goal in order to respond quickly and efficiently to our customer’s
needs.
The possibilities are endless; from individual test lanes up to countrywide
test systems with communication networks for vehicle testing.
MAHA defines its role not only as an equipment manufacturer but
also a potential partner for planning and execution of regional and
national testing concepts; a “System-Provider” for vehicle testing. Our
know-how in designing “end-of-line” test systems integrated into
vehicle manufacturer production lines is the result of an intense
exchange of information and opinions among vehicle manufacturers,
test organisations and us. Of special reference for these are industrial
emission dynamometers for automobile manufacturers or
performance dynamometers.
W: www.maha.de
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