Development of the G16CM34 Engine as a High Efficiency Engine for Gas Transmission, Storage and Withdrawal Services

There is a new large horsepower engine available in North America and supported by a well-established network of authorized factory dealers. The driver is based on a reciprocating engine design delivering 7670 to 8180 HP depending on site conditions. The 16-cylinder prime mover is specially engineered for gas transmission, storage and withdrawal service. Built on a diesel engine designed block, crankshaft, bearings, rods, and gear train, it provides long service intervals and 120,000 hours before major overhaul. Electronic ignition and combustion controls help conserve fuel, minimize emissions and keep the engine operating at peak capability under a variety of ambient and loading conditions. Electronic monitoring protects critical components and systems while greatly simplifying maintenance. The electronic control tightly regulates the combustion process, cylinder by cylinder, to optimize efficiency. It also controls the main cylinder and prechamber fuel delivery. Using sensor data based on ambient and turbocharged-aftercooled air intake temperatures, the microprocessors in the control system continuously monitor available engine power. With this information, the PLC controlling the compressor has the ability to load or unload the compressor to match the available engine output. Fuel efficiency is less than 5900 Btu/bhp-hr and NOx emissions of 0.50 grams/bhp-hr. The mechanical efficiency of the engine is greater than 43%. The mechanical refinements designed into the prime mover, are behind the high efficiency. For instance, the long stroke design maximizes fuel efficiency. A solenoid operated gas admission valve for each cylinder provides precise fuel metering. A calibration ring in the upper part of the cylinder liner helps reduce CO and NMHC emissions. Combustion gases do not collect in the gap between the piston and the liner wall, where most of these gases form. Instead, piston action forces them back into the combustion chamber for complete burning. In the event of a decline in fuel quality, a three-piece connecting rod enables a quick change in compression ratio without changing the piston. The paper will also cover details on maintenance intervals and costs, with additional features on the product along with construction details. Figure 1, illustrates a side view of the engine as Seen from the front.