Lafarge seeks LPG carbon svaing solution

LAFARGE is looking to further cut its carbon footprint with the introduction of new LPG dual fuel systems to its tipper truck fleet.

The new initiative follows the company's investment in nine new lighter vehicles which offer improved load potential, to reduce delivery movements and carbon output.

The initiative, undertaken in partnership with LPG fuel specialists Flogas and dual fuel systems firm G-volution Ltd, is expected to bring additional carbon savings and further strengthen the firm's commitment to sustainability.

John Dargie, Head of Distribution and Transport for Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK, said:

"We estimate the dual fuel system will offer an immediate saving of 10 per cent on carbon emissions as well as a similar level of reduction in fuel costs thanks to the introduction of an LPG tank.

"Clearly this makes sense from an economic and environmental perspective. Going forward over the next 10 to 20 years we will all need to look at alternative ways to fuel our fleet so this is a good start."

Initially, one truck is being fitted with the dual system, created by Newport-based firm, G-volution Ltd, the experts in developing and installing Multi-fuel control technology, with a view to more vehicles being converted if the trial is successful.

The dual system features an Optimiser which works via a unique patented principle to deliver a precise fuel mix of more than one fuel at the point of combustion while maintaining the OEM power and torque ratings.

Simon Pickess, Commercial Sales Director at G-volution, explained:

"Our dual-fuel system is ideal for Lafarge and we have no doubt that it will help them to significantly reduce their carbon emissions.

"As the fuels are combusted simultaneously, rather than one at a time, the Optimiser continually adjusts the relative ratios of the two fuels when operating in dual-fuel mode. This ensures optimal operation at all times with net fuel cost and carbon output savings virtually unaffected by changes in operational conditions, load or driver behaviour. The driver himself experiences no change in the vehicle's operation apart from having to fill up with two fuels rather than one."

In addition to a regular diesel tank, the vehicle will also feature an LPG tank, which will enable the company to benefit from the low carbon properties of the fuel.

Matt Wardle, National Accounts Manager at Flogas, said:

"At Flogas, we pride ourselves on being able to offer a tailored solution to meet our client's needs, so we are delighted to have been involved in developing this forward-thinking approach alongside Lafarge and G-volution. We look forward to working closely with both companies again in the near future."

John Dargie added:

"We are excited about the potential for dual fuel technology and if the results are what we expect then it does open up big opportunities for our fleet to become 'greener'."

The G-volution Optimiser was originally designed around the MAN D20 engine, however G-volution are currently developing systems for other OEM's. While the system currently works with diesel and LPG, G-volution is confident any future alternative fuel, such as Bio-ethanol, bio-methane or hydrogen could be accommodated, making the concept an attractive long-term option for companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK - UK Head Office
Granite House
Watermead Business Park
Syston
Leicestershire
LE7 1WA
UK

T: 0844 561 0037
F: 0870 336 8602