Complying with diesel truck emissions standards helps reduce the amount of pollution produced by sulfur in diesel fuel and it’s also an important part of an efficiently-running diesel truck. Diesel exhaust pollution includes:
These types of pollution lead to a variety of problems, including lung and heart disease. It can also affect animals, plants and water sources.
In addition to diesel fuel, the use of additives is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency because while they improve performance, they can also affect the emissions of a diesel truck. All of these are important to be aware of as you take your diesel truck on the road.
The Regulation of Emissions
In 1963, the Clean Air Act was passed, which required the measurement and monitoring of air quality and pollution, in addition to initiating research into the reduction of pollutants. In 1970, another Clean Air Act allowed federal and state governments to set limits on certain pollutants. Over the years, these limits have been amended and updated to create the emissions regulations we now have.
Most notably, between 2007 and 2010, regulations were passed to limit the emission of particulate matter, Nitrogen Oxide and Non-Methane Hydrocarbon Catalyst use.
Regulations Lead to Innovation
The emissions standards had a major impact on manufacturers of diesel truck engines, but innovation quickly followed. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems were designed to control emissions. An EGR system is made up of several parts, including an EGR cooler and an EGR valve. Essentially, the EGR system works to cool the heat from the emission gases before it returns to the combustion chamber.
EGR systems initially caused problems for operators, but they have been significantly improved since they were first in use.
What are Emissions Testing Requirements?
A diesel truck requires an emissions test each year. Each state has its own requirements for passing emissions, with California presenting the strictest standards.
If your diesel truck is in Lincoln, Nebraska or Lexington, South Carolina, make an appointment with Gray Diesel and Equipment Services today! We can help you make sure your diesel truck is running smoothly and ready to go.