Detroit Diesel’s turbo compounding technology for the DD15 engine was recently named top Technical Achievement in 2008 by the Truck Writers of North America (TWNA). The award was presented to Detroit Diesel at the Technology & Maintenance Council meeting in Orlando, Fla.
“The committee was impressed by the DD15’s use of turbo compounding, which captures typically wasted energy and converts it into productive power, improving fuel economy and performance,” said James Menzies, committee chairman for TWNA. “With diesel prices reaching unprecedented heights in 2008, we felt it was a technological advancement worthy of the award.”
Detroit Diesel said its innovative turbo compounding technology saves fuel without sacrificing power. The system employs a second exhaust turbine downstream of the standard turbocharger. In addition to providing a more efficient source of exhaust back-pressure for the engine’s exhaust gas recirculation system, the company said, the secondary turbine’s output is hyrdodynamically coupled to the engine’s drive gears.
“To be recognized by an organization such as TWNA, which studies the significance and value of the newest industry innovations, is an incredible honor,” said David Siler, director of marketing for Detroit Diesel. “Detroit Diesel always strives to develop and offer our customers the most advanced and economical technologies available today.”
