Emissions and Fuel Economy of the Kat's Engine Block Heater Device

摘要

This report describes the results of testing the Kat's Engine Block Heater with respect to exhaust emissions and fuel economy at ambient temperatures of 20 degrees, 40 degrees, and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. This device contains an electric heating element within an open metal cylinder which is spliced into the lower radiator hose of the engine's cooling system. The primary purpose of this device is to minimize hard starting in cold weather. A secondary purpose is to improve fuel economy. Testing of three 1979 passenger cars was conducted at EPA's Motor Vehicle Emission Laboratory from December 1981 through March 1982. The test sequence used was the Federal Test Procedure (FTP). The test results varied between test vehicles although some definite improvements in HC and CO were noted at the lower temperatures. Minor improvements in fuel economy were found during the warm-up period. As the test temperatures were increased, the amount of change caused by the device was reduced. Vehicle start-up and driveability were essentially unchanged throughout the program.