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EPA EMMISSION STANDARDS &
COMPLIANCE
In response to environmental and public health concerns, the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established
emission standards for most categories of non-road engines.
These engines operate in a wide variety of applications,
including construction equipment, marine vessels, lawn and
garden equipment, and locomotives. As a whole, these
emission-control programs significantly reduce the impact of
non-road engines and equipment on the nation’s air quality.
EPA EMISSION STANDARDS AND OPERATION OF DIESEL DRIVEN
PORTABLE AIR COMPRESSORS
APPLICABILITY
The EPA definition of the non-road engine is based on the
principle of mobility/portability, and includes engines
installed on (1) self-propelled equipment, (2) on equipment
that is propelled while performing its function, or (3) on
equipment that is portable or transportable, as indicated by
the presence of wheels, skids, carrying handles, dolly,
trailer, or platform. In other words, non-road engines are
all internal combustion engines except motor vehicle
(highway) engines, stationary engines (or engines that
remain at one location for more than 12 months), engines
used solely for competition, or engines used in aircraft.
It should be noted that regulated applications include use
of portable diesel powered air compressors in addition to
other equipment such as: bulldozers, wheel loaders, backhoe
loaders, road graders, diesel lawn tractors, logging
equipment, portable generators, skid steer loaders, or
forklifts.
Currently all diesel powered non-road equipment need to
conform to Tier 1-3 emission standards. More aggressive
Tier 4 emissions standards are on the way and will bring a
whole new set of requirements over the next few years.
Emissions generated from non-road equipment continue to
receive increased scrutiny from the EPA. If a facility is
operates close to its regulated emission threshold, any use
of engine driven equipment may put the entire facility out
of compliance and could result in a substantial fines.
Renting an electric motor driven compressor for temporary or
supplemental service is the simple and cost effective way
avoid these emissions issues entirely.
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