[3B4] The monitoring of exhaust particulate from a marine diesel engine
J Harris
Defence Science and Technology Group, Australia
Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) Australia constructed and trialled a demonstrator to capture exhaust gas particulates from a large marine diesel engine as part of a novel mechanical condition monitoring system. Particulate capture occurred on borosilicate glass patches situated within the exhaust system of a refurbished engine undergoing run-in trials. Analysis of captured nano- through to large-scale particulates showed wear debris from particular engine components, and the surrounding soot groundmass contained elements from fuel and lubricating oil. Changes in the material captured over the trial duration indicated the ability to monitor changes in engine condition. Overall, this trial demonstrated exhaust particulate capture as a method of monitoring the condition and combustion performance for marine diesel engines.
