Aggregates Manager Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/908212
EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT While the transition may seem overwhelming, Tier 4 is simply the next step in engine evolution. Here's how to approach it. 16 AGGREGATES MANAGER / December 2017 A s emissions requirements continue to evolve and the off-highway industry reaches the fi nal stage of current emissions standards, equip- ment operators will soon make the switch to working with Final Tier 4 engines — if they haven't already. With additional emissions control technology, making the jump to Tier 4 engines may seem like an over- whelming transition at fi rst. However, transitioning to Tier 4 is simply another step in the history of diesel technology advancement. For example, when elec- tronics were fi rst introduced during the Tier 2 emissions stage, end-users were initially concerned about the addition. Today, it has become the standard, as almost every engine features electronics. It is also important to note the on-highway market has been involved with Final Tier 4 technology longer than off-highway, and manufacturers have learned from the insights gleaned from its implementation. There are three main reasons why users may fi nd Final Tier 4 equipment intimidating: 1. Lack of familiarity with new emissions technologies; 2. Fear of complexity impacting equipment performance; and 3. Confl icting information about how new technologies impact long-term engine care. With the perceived intricacy of emissions systems, paired with varied approaches between manufacturers, general education is key in easing the transition to Tier 4. Experts at John Deere Power Systems weighed in on how emissions technologies work to- gether in a Final Tier 4 engine, as well as outlined simple maintenance prac- tices to help ensure you're prepared. The road to Tier 4 "John Deere engines are built on a legacy of heavy-duty off-road Three primary maintenance practices for Tier 4 Final engines include keeping the system clean, properly storing and handling DEF, and using the correct materials. Taking on Tier 4 Engines