Rail applications

GFS is taking proven Bi-Fuel technology supplied by GTI-Altronic and applying it to the railroad industry. The GTI-Altronic BI-Fuel technology has been successfully applied to over 1,200 MW of large diesel engines in stationary generator applications. To date GFS has converted and run a GE 7FDL engine and an ALCO engine in a test cell on Bi-Fuel with excellent results. GFS is also interested in developing conversion systems for EMD engines. GFS in conjunction with its strategic partners in the areas of gas liquefaction and compression, as well as storage and dispensing equipment is currently looking for candidates to pilot test locomotives on Bi-fuel operation. Current gas liquefaction and compression technologies and on board storage technologies make Bi-Fuel conversion viable for rail operations ranging from a few kilometers to several hundred kilometers. A CNG or LNG tender car can be provided to cover almost any haulage distance. An ideal application for conversion to Bi-fuel is a line haul locomotive operating on dedicated service. For example, a dedicated mine haul rail line would be an excellent application.

Overview

The Bi-Fuel system enables operators of diesel locomotives to substantially reduce operational costs and lower emissions by substituting diesel fuel with lower cost, cleaner burning natural gas. The system supplied by GFS is comprised of patented and proprietary technologies that allow diesel engines to safely operate on gas percentages ranging from 50% to 70% of the total fuel requirement. Engines converted to Bi-Fuel operation exhibit diesel-like performance in such critical areas as power, response and efficiency. A key feature of the conversion system is its ability to switch fuel modes without interruption in vehicle operation. Conversion to Bi-Fuel operation does not require modification of the engine and can typically be completed in a day. The system is compatible with both compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquid natural gas (LNG) fuel storage systems.

Advantages

• Reduced operating costs.
• Fuel flexibility: vehicle can operate 100% diesel if required.
• Does not require modification of the engine.
• Compatible with compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) fuel storage systems.
  • CNG/LNG on-board systems have excellent safety history.
• Gas supplied to engine at atmospheric pressure.
• Gas concentration in engine combustion air is less than 3% by volume.
  • Mixture is non-explosive/non-flammable until compressed in the combustion chamber.
• Cost savings based on cost differential between CNG and LNG and diesel. Large cost differentials result in rapid ROI.

Locomotive Savings Example

• Diesel (HV 135,000 btu/gal): $24/Mmbtu ($3.2/gal)
• Natural Gas (HV 1,000 btu/scf): $10/Mmbtu ($1.35 DGE)

Applications

• Locomotives

Kit Installation Requirements

• 8 to 10 man hours for kit installation.
• No special tools needed.
• May require some fabrication brackets.
• Commissioning can be done on-rail or using test cell.