Exploring the Future of Energy: BTL, GTL, and Perkins Engines

Machinery work sight
Machinery work sight

By Jenni Gritti Probst | Posted November 10th, 2024

In today’s world, the environmental impact of our energy choices cannot be overlooked. That’s why the innovative BTL (Biomass to Liquid) and GTL (Gas to Liquid) technologies are an important fuel consideration.

BTL converts organic matter— such as agricultural waste, wood chips or even crops grown specifically for fuel —into liquid fuel, managing waste and producing an alternative fuel. This results in a reduction in life cycle greenhouse gas emissions— although tailpipe emissions are essentially the same —creating a nearly closed carbon cycle. BTL fuels can be tailored to specific energy needs, offering flexibility in their application, and enhancing performance.

GTL technology converts natural gas into a liquid fuel. With a high cetane number, it offers efficient combustion and smoother engine operation, reduced engine noise, and lower maintenance costs.
 

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You've probably heard the term drop-in fuel or alternative fuel, but what does that really mean? Paul Muller breaks down the ins and outs of low carbon intensity fuels (LCIFs) in our latest Advanced Power Series video.


The practical benefits of BTL and GTL technologies lie in their seamless integration with existing infrastructure. These drop-in fuels can be utilised in Perkins engines without any modifications. Additionally, they can be transported, stored, and dispensed using the same facilities as conventional diesel. This seamless integration eliminates the barriers to entry often associated with fuel transition and businesses can transition to alternative fuels without the downtime or expense of retrofitting equipment, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution.

The convenience of BTL and GTL fuels lies in their ‘drop-in’ nature. These fuels do not require any special handling or changes to engines, making them accessible to all users of diesel engines.  This ease of use is a significant advantage for machine operators and owners. For the OEM, Perkins engines’ range-wide BTL/GTL compatibility offers a practical and efficient solution to meet off-highway power needs with reduced life cycle greenhouse gas emissions, although tailpipe emissions are essentially the same. 

 

Jenni Gritti Probst

Contributor

Not one to walk away from the chance to tell a good tale, Jenni spends her days crafting and sharing stories of the people, products and services that make the world a better place. When she’s not working her dream job at Perkins, she’s usually outdoors hiking, exploring, and playing in the dirt.

 

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