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US 6,516,771 B1Granted
Method and system for extending engine oil life
AssigneeCaterpillar Inc.
InventorWilliam L. Brown
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A method and system for introduction of nitrogen enriched air into the crankcase of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The introduction of the nitrogen-enriched air operates to extend the oil life of the oil present in the engine crankcase due to decreased oxidation of the engine oil.
Claims14
A method of extending oil life in an internal combustion engine comprising the steps of:
- separating a flow of engine intake air into a flow of oxygen enriched air and a flow of nitrogen enriched air;
- and
- introducing said flow of nitrogen enriched air into said engine at locations where engine oil is present;
- wherein the oxidation rate of the oil is reduced thereby extending oil life.
1 more element
A method of extending oil life in an engine comprising the steps of:
- providing a source of nitrogen enriched air;
- and
- introducing said nitrogen enriched air into said engine at locations where lubricating oil is present;
- wherein the oxidation rate of the oil is reduced thereby extending oil life.
1 more element
A system for extending oil life in an internal combustion engine comprising:
- an air separating device adapted for separating a flow of air into a flow of oxygen enriched air and a flow of nitrogen enriched air;
- and
- a nitrogen enriched air conduit coupled to said air separation device for transporting said nitrogen enriched air to said engine at selected locations where lubricating oil is present;
- wherein the oxidation rate of the oil is reduced thereby extending oil life.
1 more element
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.