In the "VSG - Variable Speed Generator" development project, the project partners Heinzmann GmbH & Co. KG and the Chair of Mobile Machinery (Mobima) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, together with the associated project partner Motorenfabrik HATZ GmbH & Co.KG, have developed a system consisting of a diesel engine and an electric generator that can run in a fuel-saving manner by adjusting the speed.
Suitable electrical components were selected and measured on a test bench. Furthermore, a test bench was set up in which a diesel engine and the electrical components such as the generator and converter were installed. Furthermore, a simulation model was created that can generate a trajectory of optimal fuel consumption based on characteristic maps and can calculate the fuel savings for any load profile.
Using the curve of optimal consumption determined in the simulation model, the fuel consumption of the diesel was measured and compared with the actual state at constant speed.
The result shows a high fuel savings potential of at least 30% to over 40% for the load profiles investigated. This result, which was not foreseen with such clarity, shows the high potential for conserving resources and reducing exhaust emissions accordingly. In addition, operation at low speed leads to smoother running overall and lower noise emissions.