Isuzu Simplifies Fuel Changeovers

January 10, 2020

Terry Costlow

Isuzu’s 4HV1 can switch fuels without manual intervention. (Isuzu)

Isuzu is making it easier for equipment owners to switch fuels from natural gas to liquid propane, letting users switch by merely sending a signal to the engine. Released in October 2019, the dual-fuel 4HV1 engines and power units also have a higher compression ratio that helps conserve fuel.

Natural gas or liquid propane can be selected using software. (Isuzu)

The alternative-fuel engines, designed for non-emergency and emergency standby generator applications and multi-speed applications, let operators switch fuel sources without reconfiguring the base engine. This feature helps to reduce downtime on site, according to Isuzu, which plans to feature the dual-fuel system at ConExpo-Con/Agg in March (South Hall 4, S85406).

Before an engine starts, operators supply a 12-volt or ground signal to the engine to indicate the fuel to be used. The electronic control module (ECM) then selects the appropriate fuel lock-off valve and sets the requisite ignition timing and air/fuel ratio.

“After launch of the 4HV1 alternative-fuel engines in 2018 and power units in early 2019, we discovered numerous benefits to having the option to change the available fuel choice at the distribution level or within an onsite application,” said Cody Garcelon, director, applications and sales engineering, Isuzu Motors America. “This dual-fuel system can eliminate excess stock, rework and downtime with a simple signal to the ECM/engine before it is restarted.”

The 4HV1 has a compression ratio of 12.5:1, resulting in lower fuel consumption compared to lower compression ratio engines available in the off-highway industrial industry. The heavy-duty block, crankshaft, cylinder head, and connecting rods improve engine lifetime. Isuzu is among only a few alternative-fuel engine makers to utilize replaceable dry cylinder liners.

The engines and power units are equipped with sensors for oil pressure, coolant temperature, intake air pressure and temperature, and engine speed. They can all trigger shutdowns, improving safety and security. Along with fuel options, ease of maintenance and flexibility are enhanced by an engine-mounted, maintenance-free ECM and a 500-hour oil drain interval.