The correct air/fuel ratio is very important for the following considerations:
- Margin of detonation
- Control of emissions
- Achieving optimum service life for the engine
If the air/fuel ratio is not appropriate for the fuel and the operating conditions, a failure of the engine may occur. The service life of the turbocharger, the valves, and other components may be reduced.
Any changes to the air/fuel ratio may affect the exhaust emissions. After adjustment, use an emissions analyzer to measure the exhaust emissions. Ensure that the engine is in compliance with local regulations for emissions.
The engine can operate with a minimum fuel pressure of
Installation Before the Fuel Control Valve
To optimize the accuracy of the flow of fuel, install a straight pipe prior to the fuel control valve. Use a pipe with a minimum length of
To prevent particles from entering the engine, install a one micron fuel filter before the fuel control valve.
The system is designed for fuel temperatures less than
Changes in the temperature of the air supply affects the air/fuel ratio. In addition to seasonal changes, the air temperature changes overnight. Control of the temperature in the engine room will help to maintain the air/fuel ratio.
To avoid hot air from a generator, use ducting. For more information, refer to Application and Installation Guide, LEKQ7250, "Air Intake". Consult your Caterpillar dealer for assistance.
Refer to the performance specification for the derate for ambient temperature.
The engine has an adjustable exhaust bypass valve. This valve controls the flow of exhaust gas to the turbine wheel in order to maintain the desired boost pressure. Excessive boost pressure can result in overloading of the engine, overheating,detonation, and turbocharger surge. For the adjustment procedure, refer to the engine's Systems Operation/Test and Adjust manual.
The rate of oil consumption is called Brake Specific Oil Consumption (BSOC). The unit of measure is grams per brake kilowatt hour or pounds per brake horsepower hour. The BSOC depends on the engine model, the aspiration, the operating load, and the oil that is used. For information on calculating the BSOC, refer to Engine Data Sheet 96.2, LEKQ4028, "Oil Consumption Data".
Table 1 lists the normal mid-life BSOC for G3500 Engines under the following conditions:
- Load factor of 100 percent
- Maintenance is performed according to this Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Maintenance Interval Schedule" (Maintenance Section).
| BSOC for G3500 Engines | |
| Turbocharged Aftercooled Engine | |