Barry Beavis, M D of Boss Services is the latest industry leader to voice his opinion over the use of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) in London. Beavis believes that plans to reduce emissions by retrofitting DPFs are ill conceived, costly and impractical, particularly in light of increasingly stringent European emission standards.

Practically, there are still numerous unresolved issues, he feels. Firstly the accredited suppliers list has still not materialised, hence there is still no official source for DPFs. Beavis says, "We understand that only a few DPF companies have been accredited - not enough for the list to be sent out - due to the prolonged debate with the OEMs."

The debate with the original equipment manufacturers is primarily over warranties. As Beavis points out, “Our leading suppliers have told us that manufacturer warranties probably won't stand once a machine has a retro- fitted DPF. This is because there will still be some risk of damage to engines and the OEM's are not prepared to cover the risk from a third party modification." Referring to impending European emission regulations, he continued "Really this whole debate is futile. The technology will be introduced anyway in 2010. Time is elapsing and the proposed legislation cannot be introduced until more suppliers are on board; suppliers won't invest huge sums as they perceive only a small market opportunity and even then it will take time to organise the retro-fit. Site contractors may well struggle to get machines as the plant hire industry considers whether it is worthwhile to supply these sites or wait for Stage 111B." The principles of controlling exhaust emissions are admirable, however, the proposals for DPFs seem flawed.

The Great London Authority's own study in 2003/4 showed that there are no appreciable improvements to air Quality even if plant vehicles are fitted with DPFs. Only 8% of particulate emissions in London are caused by plant. Fitting expensive DPF systems now will have little appreciable effect to overall emissions. It makes sense for all concerned to wait for Stage IIIB in 2010.

Beavis concludes, "In more ways than one measures are in place to reduce emissions without unnecessary cost and delay. Manufacturers are in line to comply with Stage IIIB, which will significantly reduce emissions from plant. The proposed legislation will only add cost and inconvenience to the process for very little gain."

 

Published in Earthmovers – September 2008