Case Construction Equipment, part of the Fiat Group, will use two distinct technologies—cooled exhaust gas recirculation (CEGR) and selective catalytic reduction (SCR)—to address US EPA Tier 4 interim standards across its product line, which includes more than 90 equipment models, ranging from 11.3 kW (15.15 hp) to 397 kW (532 hp).

Tier 4 interim standards begin in 2011, and Tier 4 final standards come into effect beginning in 2014. Tier 4 final standards require a 90% reduction in PM and NOx compared to Tier 3.

The challenge in trying to meet Tier 4 standards—interim and final—is that the CEGR technology that reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx) increases particulate matter (PM) levels, while the SCR technology that reduces PM levels increases NOx levels. In order to meet the ultimate goal of near-zero emissions, an after-treatment exhaust filter system must be part of a CEGR solution, and a diesel exhaust fluid additive must be part of an SCR solution, Case says.

Case sees advantages to both technologies depending on engine size and load and also application demands, and it is taking advantage of the tremendous resources available to it as part of the Fiat Group, as well as the strengths of its worldwide strategic partners and suppliers.

SCR is a cool-running, quiet system that’s separate from the main engine function and does not compromise horsepower or torque; on the contrary, it can actually improve performance. The SCR after-treatment system requires the addition of a diesel exhaust fluid.

CEGR technology provides a user-friendly solution that requires no change in the operation of the machines. It is a system that relies on an exhaust filter system to remove particulate matter from the exhaust. This technology provides excellent durability and low maintenance costs.