Epura Engine: Boosting Performance and Sustainability in Mining

In the mining industry, where heavy equipment like Komatsu excavators and trucks powers operations, engine performance directly impacts productivity and costs. Dust is a major enemy, clogging air filters, reducing efficiency, and increasing fuel consumption and emissions. The Epura Engine system offers a self-cleaning filtration solution that enhances engine performance, cuts fuel costs, and reduces environmental impact. This article explains how Epura Engine delivers these benefits for mining operations.

The Impact of Dust on Engine Performance

Dust-heavy environments, common in mining, wreak havoc on diesel engines:

• Reduced Efficiency: Clogged air filters restrict airflow, forcing engines to work harder, which can increase fuel consumption by 10–25%.
• Increased Emissions: Poor air filtration leads to incomplete combustion, raising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and other pollutants.
• Maintenance Costs: Frequent filter replacements and engine wear from dust ingress result in costly repairs and downtime.

For operators of HEM vehicles, maintaining clean air intake is essential to keep engines running at peak performance while controlling costs and environmental impact.

How Epura Engine Makes a Difference

The Epura Engine system is a pre-filtration solution installed upstream of a vehicle’s original air filter. Its innovative design offers:

• Self-Cleaning Efficiency: Using low-frequency sound waves, Epura cleans its high-efficiency PTFE-coated filter in 10-second cycles during engine stops, eliminating the need for frequent replacements. In tests, filters lasted over 12 months, compared to daily changes in high-dust settings.
• Fuel Savings: By maintaining optimal airflow, Epura reduces fuel consumption by 5–10%, as demonstrated in trials with diesel containers. This translates to significant cost savings and lower GHG emissions.
• Enhanced Engine Longevity: The system filters 99.73% of particles 0.3 microns and larger, protecting internal engine components from wear. This extends equipment life and reduces maintenance costs.
• Environmental Benefits: Reduced fuel use and fewer filter replacements lower the environmental footprint, aligning with sustainability goals. Rio Tinto reported a 300% reduction in CO2 emissions in some tests.

Proven Results in Mining

At Rio Tinto’s Grande-Baie port facility, Epura Engine systems were installed on trucks handling dusty materials like bauxite and alumina. The results included over $21,000 in annual savings per vehicle on engine filter changes and a 10-week return on investment. The system’s ability to maintain clean air intake ensured consistent engine performance, even in extreme conditions.

Why It Matters for Mining Leaders

For business leaders managing Komatsu fleets, the Epura Engine system is a game-changer. It reduces fuel costs, extends engine life, and supports sustainability—all while keeping your operations running smoothly. By minimizing maintenance and emissions, Epura aligns with both financial and environmental priorities, making it a smart investment for mining operations aiming to stay competitive and responsible.