Kohler’s new hydrogen engine advance

Kohler Engines is unveiling its new Kohler Direct Injection Hydrogen (KDH) engine, an internal combustion engine that can run on hydrogen.
By Mike Woof January 18, 2024 Read time: 2 mins
Kohler’s new hydrogen engines will offer clean power and comparable performance with conventional diesel units

The new hydrogen engine technology is being used in the KDI 2504 TCR unit. This takes advantage of conventional combustion engine architecture and maintains the same dimensions, PTOs and performance as conventional diesel engines, while using zero-carbon hydrogen as fuel.

Kohler Engines is investing in a range of innovative technologies to meet diverse machinery requirements. Hydrogen has emerged as a versatile fuel with rapidly evolving technology. Renowned for its wide flammability range, high flame speed, low ignition energy, and high diffusivity, hydrogen holds promise as a cleaner alternate fuel for internal combustion engines.

Using direct injection (DI) technology, as opposed to port fuel injection (PFI), ensures performance, by avoiding backfiring. The hydrogen unit aims to provide the same performance as the diesel engine, such as max power, peak and low-end torque, as well as transient response and drivability.

Hydrogen plays a pivotal role in emissions and GHG reduction as it offers clean and efficient energy, without generating carbon dioxide (CO2).

The combustion of a hydrogen engine is cleaner than a standard diesel engine and with an aftertreatment system (ATS), the environmental benefits of using hydrogen are increased. Using the ATS ensures the reduction of exhaust emissions to low values, making the engine near zero-emissions. The ATS reduces particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx) and hydrocarbons (HC) to minimal levels.

The hydrogen internal combustion engine is designed to be a drop-in solution, and no major changes to the engine compartment will be required. The engine platform of the machine will keep the same cooling circuit, power take-off and flywheel, engine mounting points, and intake line; in addition, the exhaust line does not need ATS in Stage 5.

Engines, Components & Tyres

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Electric power projects planned
    January 26, 2018
    While diesel engines continue to be developed, there is no mistaking the current plans for electric driveline projects - Mike Woof writes The growing worldwide consensus on the massive threat to humanity posed by climate change means that the need to reduce exhaust emissions from transport and construction is becoming ever more pressing. As a result, industry is changing and new solutions are being found for transport and construction that will help lower environmental impact. Although many solutions are
    Read More
  • New asphalt paving developments are coming to market
    January 7, 2015
    Atlas Copco introduces new low emission diesels in its latest large paver models - Mike Woof writes The large pavers from Atlas Copco’s Dynapac range are now compliant with the Tier 4 Final/Stage IV emissions regulations due to the installation of new engines. Running costs are also said to have been reduced due to lower fuel consumption and the firm claims each of the latest models can offer a fuel saving of 4200 litres/year, as well as a reduction in CO2 emissions of 11tonnes/year.
    Read More
  • NHC launches excavator duo
    February 13, 2012
    New Holland Construction launched the first two models of its new C Series range of crawler excavators at the recent Samoter event in Italy. With operating weights ranging from 27-31tonnes, the new E265C and E305C models introduce new features that that are said to improve productivity and performance, and these include Tier 4 interim engines delivering more power and up to 10% improvement in fuel efficiency; high efficiency hydraulic system to increase productivity by up to 10%; EVO cab with ROPS/FOPS prot
    Read More
  • Hydrogen power for Kubota’s new range of clean engine options
    March 14, 2023
    Kubota is introducing a new 3.8litre internal combustion (IC) engine that runs on hydrogen. This four-cylinder power unit features a similar design to petrol/gasoline engines and uses spark ignition, delivering 85kW. The power output suits a number of duties such as a 45kVA generator.
    Read More

Highlighted Content