Mechanical control valves have long been the go-to for controlling fluid temperatures in engines and compressors. However, with increasing emissions standards and the demand for more precise thermal management, OEMs need solutions that provide enhanced flexibility and efficiency. Enter the electronic thermostat—a game-changing technology that not only improves engine performance but also significantly reduces its carbon footprint.
In this blog, we explore the top three reasons to switch to an electronic thermostat and how it can improve your engine’s carbon footprint.
1. Increase Engine Power Density:
As demand for lower-carbon fuel sources grows, major engine OEMs are striving to increase power density in spark-ignited engine platforms.This is challenging with mechanical thermostats, as the engine control unit must balance intake manifold temperature (IMAT) with the local dew point to reduce condensation.
Electronic thermostats provide more precise and responsive temperature regulation, improving thermal stability of the intake air (+/-1°F). Additionally, they offer flexible temperature set points, enabling the engine to dynamically optimize performance based on changes in load, environment, and fuel type.
2. Fuel Flexibility
Electronic thermostats enhance fuel flexibility in internal combustion engines by adjusting the intake manifold temperature (IMAT) to maintain ptimal combustion when switching between different fuel types. They CH, NH, enable engines to adapt to the specific combustion characteristics of fuels like ammonia, hydrogen, and natural gas.
3. Reduced Emissions:
Engine temperatures are closely linked to emission levels, with higher temperatures often leading to more emissions. Electronic thermostats allow real- time adjustments to temperature set points, optimizing combustion based on target design temperatures and factors like environmental conditions, fuel quality,and engine load.
Interested in seeing how electronic thermostats can help you meet your decarbonization goals? Contact one of our AMOT experts for a free consultation today!