The 'side effects' make it complicated
"The Stage III B and IV exhaust gas regulations are a challenge for both engine manufacturers and machine manufacturers, because in these exhaust gas stages not just the engine, but also different components in the exhaust after-treatment and its installation conditions play a major part in complying with the levels," emphasises Frank Diedrich, exhaust gas expert for the VDMA (Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau), Germany's engineering federation, and the CECE (Committee for European Construction Equipment). "The additional exhaust gas after-treatment has 'side effects', which will strongly influence the development of mobile machines in the future - for example increased noise emission, rising temperatures and the requirement for extra installation space. In addition there will be increased technological complexity in keeping fuel consumption low, and adapting the exhaust gas systems in sometimes less than ideal deployment conditions in the construction industry."

Price increases seem inevitable
Whichever route the manufacturers choose to take, one thing seems certain: prices will rise. According to Gunnar Stein, we can assume that carrying out the measures referred to will see costs for Stage IV engine and exhaust gas treatment almost doubling. "The bottom line is that manufacturers must weigh up the pros and cons of the various technical solutions, so that they come up with not necessarily the cheapest solution, but rather the concept that will be most cost-effective over the whole life-cycle," sums up Stein.

bauma brings together industry expertise
The new emission directives will be a central theme for both the international exhibitors and the trade public at bauma, the world's leading trade fair. From 19 to 25 April 2010 at the New Munich Trade Fair Centre, there will be the opportunity to get an overview of the innovations and solutions put forward on this topic by engine developers, component manufacturers and construction machinery producers.