Every successful project starts with a framework. A vision statement. A blueprint. The staff of Engineered Systems is proud to present The Blueprint — a monthly Q&A interview with HVACR engineering’s leading voices. These one-on-one discussions examine the trade’s history, current industry trends, the factors shaping the sector’s future, and more.
In the most recent installment, Beth Splittgerber, product manager for the small diesel product line, Kohler Power Systems, North America, introduces hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), discusses its role in the company’s present and future, and much more.
Engineered Systems: It was recently announced that Kohler Power Systems’ entire offering of mission-critical diesel generators is now compatible with HVO. What exactly is HVO?
Splittgerber: HVO stands for hydrotreated vegetable oil and is an environmentally friendly alternative to standard diesel fuel. This paraffinic renewable fuel is made from waste products and residue, such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and used cooking oils. It’s 100% fossil-free and 100% recycled, therefore, offering a cleaner energy solution.
Engineered Systems: Thanks for the brief introduction. Can you share a little bit more about HVO’s environmental impact or lack thereof?
Splittgerber: HVO produces up to 90% less carbon net over fossil diesel and can reduce NOx by up to 10%. HVO is significantly better for the environment compared to fossil diesel and will be key in helping to achieve a net-zero carbon target.
Engineered Systems: To use HVO, will any adaptations or alterations be necessary to existing generators?
Splittgerber: No, there are no changes required to existing generators to switch from fossil diesel to HVO renewable fuel. As long as the HVO fuel is of the same standard as No. 2 diesel, ASTM D975, the two fuel types are completely interchangeable.
Read the entire interview on Engineered Systems’ website.
ON THE INTERNET
Percussive Maintenance is defined as the use of physical concussion, such as a knock or a tap, in an attempt to make a malfunctioning device (or person) work. In Engineered Systems’ Percussive Maintenance podcast, we’re poised to do much more than rattle the engineering industry’s exterior; we’re digging deeper into the subjects and topics that matter most with some of the industry’s most influential names.
In the latest episode, Peter Scialla, president and COO of Delos, shares the mission and vision of the Wellness Innovation in Senior Environments (WISE) initiative, a science-based industry collaborative that encourages the adoption of innovations to improve health and wellness aspects of senior living facilities, creating a cleaner, brighter future.
Click here to listen to the latest episode of the Percussive Maintenance podcast.
Exhibitor Takeaways from BOILER 2022
Numerous exhibitors share their greatest takeaways from ABMA’s BOILER 2022 event in Dallas.
See the video on Engineered Systems’ website.
20 to Watch: Women in HVAC
Know of an exemplary woman working in the HVACR engineering sector? Nominate her for the 2023 20 to Watch: Women in HVAC contest! Nominations are now open and will run through Sept. 30. We’re looking for women at all steps of the industry — not just the most powerful and/or influential. The only requirement is that nominees have to be women and work in the HVACR engineering sector. For more information, click here.