Method of using backflow from common-rail fuel injector

A method of operating an actuator having a movable component, the actuator operatively connected to a fuel injection system of a combustion engine, the fuel injection system having a common-rail injector, the method comprising:

• drawing fuel from a fuel source;
• limiting the drawn fuel from flowing toward the actuator until a fuel pressure is above a given threshold;
• and
• powering the actuator by opening a valve to allow fuel to flow to the actuator using at least a portion of a backflow of fuel generated by the common-rail injector once the fuel pressure is above the given threshold, the movable component of the actuator in driving engagement with a second valve.

An engine assembly comprising:

• a combustion engine having at least one combustion chamber;
• a fuel injection system having a common-rail injector fluidly connected to a fuel source, the common-rail injector having a first injector outlet fluidly connected to a combustion chamber providing fuel thereto, and a second injector outlet outputting a backflow of fuel;
• a fuel circuit fluidly connecting the fuel source, the common-rail injector, and the second injector outlet together;
• the fuel circuit having an actuator sub-circuit operatively connected to the second injector outlet;
• a valve having an inlet connected to the fuel circuit and an outlet connected to the actuator sub-circuit, the valve having an open position in which the fuel circuit is fluidly connected to the actuator sub-circuit through the valve and a closed position in which fluid communication through the valve is limited;
• an actuator fluidly connected to the actuator sub-circuit, the actuator having a movable member;
• and a second valve in driving engagement with the movable member of the actuator.