Impact of Bulldozer's Engine Load Factor on Fuel Consumption, CO₂ Emission and Cost

Problem statement: Bulldozers consume a large amount of diesel fuel and consequently produce a significant quantity of CO₂. Environmental and economic cost issues related to fuel consumption and CO₂ emission represent a substantial challenge to the mining industry. Approach: Impact of engine load conditions on fuel consumption and the subsequent CO₂ emission and cost was analyzed for Caterpillar bulldozers. Results were compared with the data on bulldozers' fuel consumption from an operating coal surface mine in the United States. Results: There is a strong linear correlation among power, fuel consumption and engine load factor. Reduction in load factor by 15% may significantly reduce the fuel consumption and the CO₂ emission. Conclusion/Recommendation: Application of appropriate bulldozer's load factor may help mine operators manage fuel consumption, cost and environmental burden.