The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) partnered with Origin Engines to develop new 5.7- and 6.2- liter engines, EPA-certified and optimized for industrial applications like irrigation and power generation.
The enhancements include specialized valves and valve seats designed to endure rigorous applications, camshafts designed to maximize engine output, and pistons designed to minimize oil consumption.
PERC invested in the research and development of Origin’s new engines, providing industry expertise and financial support through the research, development, and testing process for the new technology.
“We are excited to introduce these highly efficient, innovative engines to the market,” said Pete Stout, product manager for Origin Engines. “We built our product line based on feedback from the end users because their satisfaction is what is most important to us. We are confident they will be very pleased with these new products.”
While the technology and efficiency is new and state-of-the-art, the design is familiar, as it is characteristic of the tried-and-true 5.7-liter engine produced by General Motors. As a result, there is already a vast network of commercially-available service and spare parts, as well as technicians capable of servicing these models.
These new engines complement Origin’s larger 8.0-, 9.1-, and 10.3-liter engines, providing a complete portfolio covering 50-200+ horsepower for both equipment manufacturers and consumers.
“Propane is an excellent fuel choice for irrigation engines because it is more stable, accessible, consistent, and environmentally friendly when compared to electricity or diesel,” said Cinch Munson, director of agriculture business development at the Propane Education & Research Council. “These advantages combined with the optimal efficiency of new propane engine technology provide several benefits to farmers. If they are wondering what propane can do to benefit their operation, these engines are a very good example.”
These new engines are now available from distributors Industrial Irrigation, KEM Equipment, Flint Power and Western Power Products, as well as many of these companies’ dealers.
For more information about Origin Engines, visit www.originengines.com. For more information about propane use on the farm and the Propane Education & Research Council, visit www.propane.com.