Each engine corresponds to a different class within the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) classification system. The project is aimed to determine the suitability of EVCC’s technology as a best solution to resolve emission concerns currently faced by the small engine industry. For that purpose, the catalysts must allow the applicable engines to meet current and future emission standards for North America. They must last the full useful life of the engine, they must use the least amount of precious materials possible and they must accomplish all of the above while having little to no negative effect on engines’ performance or output.
The project has been separated into two phases. In phase 1, the company will develop catalyst solutions for four small engines. Pending completion of phase 1, EVCC with the support of NRC-IRAP will proceed to phase 2 of the project. The phase 2 is to develop catalytic mufflers for engines in each of the remaining three small SI engine classes.
Albert Hickman, president and chief executive officer of EVCC, comments: The Lawn Care Catalysts project is a very timely initiative given the heightened concern for the environment coupled with the recent implementation of EPA’s Phase 3 Emission Standards. EVCC is very pleased to collaborate with NRC-IRAP on this project, and we look forward to both the advisory support as well as the financial assistance offered through the program.
The project is planned to begin in April 2009, and will run until final completion of phase 2 in November 2010.
