Paul,
With the latest round of emission controls by the EPA, stationary agricultural diesel
engines used for irrigation wells have tripled in replacement cost for a 125-150 hp
to over $20K.

I realize this is an airborne rotary forum but I couldn't help but think about the
suitability of a rotary operating on nat. gas as an alternative.

The diesel units run direct drive around 2,000 to 2200 rpm powering irrigation wells
and electric generators.  Nat. gas is currently exempt from emissions (Boone Pickens
has a lot of it for sale) and a lot of farms have access to it including mine.

Due to their low rpm, these diesel units have excellent longevity at 8-10,000 hours.
Could a rotary with a gear reduction provide a lower cost reasonably long life
alternative?

Danny Petersen
Lincoln Nebraska

It  will run fine on NG. Make sure it has the apex seal oil metering pump.
It should run for about 3000 hours. With ceramic apex seals a lot longer
but I don't how much longer.

Paul Lamar

That would be a good way to test the longevity of those seals.

Brian Trubee

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