Ignition System: Sensors (9) - The Detonation Sensors Monitor The Engine For Detonation in Each
Ignition System: Sensors (9) - The Detonation Sensors Monitor The Engine For Detonation in Each
Ignition System
The engine is equipped with an electronic ignition system. The system provides dependable firing
and low maintenance. The system provides precise control of the spark and the ignition timing for each
cylinder. The system also provides diagnostic capability that enhances troubleshooting.
The engines are equipped with protection from detonation. A detonation sensor is located between
every two cylinders. The ignitiosn timing is retarded for a cylinder when excessive detonation is sensed
in that cylinder. If the maximum retarded position is attained and detonation continues to occur, the ECM
shuts down the engine.
2. Air/Fuel Ratio
The correct air/fuel ratio is very important for the following considerations:
• Detonation Margin
3. Electronic System
The Caterpillar Electronic System is a complete electronic control system for gas engines. The
following benefits are the most significant advantages of the electronic system:
• Air/Fuel ratio control
• Extensive system diagnostics
• Precise control of engine operation
• Protection from detonation
4. Detonation sensors (9) – The detonation sensors monitor the engine for detonation in each
cylinder. To eliminate detonation, the ECM retards the timing of the cylinder. If excessive
detonation continues, the ECM will shut down the engine.
7. Fuel
Fuel Recommendations
Caterpillar gas engines will operate successfully on a broad range of gaseous fuels. Pipeline natural
gas has been used for many years. Commercial v fuel gases are mixtures of gases. These fuels
consist primarily of hydrocarbons (combinations of hydrogen and carbon) and some inert gases. The
compositions of these gas mixtures have extreme variations. Fuels such as wellhead gas, bio-gas,
and manufactured gas need to be reviewed for acceptability. Analyze the fuel in order to determine
the following characteristics:
• Composition
• Contaminants
• Heat value
• Methane number
• Specific gravity
Field gas can have varying characteristics of combustion. Field gas can contain numerous
harmful impurities. The impurities can alter the BTU content. The impurities can also alter the methane
number. The impurities include everything from water up to complex hydrocarbons that can lead
to detonation and severe engine damage. To minimize these effects, Caterpillar recommends the
following guidelines:
8. Cylinder Pressure -
Measure/Record
Cylinder pressure can be measured during inspection of the spark plugs. Use the following guidelines for
checking the cylinder pressure:
• Remove all of the spark plugs.
• Fully open the throttle plate.
• Minimize the cranking time to 3 or 4 revolutions. This will enable a maximum consistent cranking
speed for the check. Also, the battery power will be conserved.
A loss of cylinder pressure or a change of pressure in one or more cylinders may indicate the following
conditions. These conditions may indicate a problem with lubrication:
• Excessive deposits
• Guttering of valves
• A broken valve
• A piston ring that sticks
• A broken piston ring
• Worn piston rings
• Worn cylinder liners
If the cylinder pressure has risen by one or more compression ratios, the engine needs a top end
overhaul in order to remove deposits. Failure to remove the deposits will increase the chance for
detonation. Severe guttering of the valves will occur.
A spark plug can operate despite a buildup of ash. Large deposits may retain heat which can cause
premature fuel ignition. This can lead to uncontrollable detonation