Primary Research Organization: Accurata Inc.
Start Date: July 2022
Anticipated End Date: April 2024
Project Summary and Scope of Work
Methane slip is the term associated with unburned methane that passes through the combustion process in stationary engines. The methane is captured in corners and crevices in the combustion chamber. It is released with the exhaust gasses exiting the chamber. Another source of unburned methane is derived from the crankcase. Methane that leaks from the combustion chamber into the crankcase is known as blowby. This occurs when gasses leak past the piston rings. It is present in every engine. The gasses vented from the crankcase are normally collected and injected into the exhaust stack downstream of the engine.
According to the AER, stationary engines are suspected to contribute 4.9 MT CO2e from unburned methane emissions in Alberta. The specified emission levels by engine manufacturers are expected to be understated. Actual emission levels require quantification for both engine Owners and Regulators.
This project will provide best management practices and technology options, as little is available for technology options for unburned methane in engine exhaust. Options for future abatement technology development will also be discussed.