The compact design means the treatment module can be installed at various locations in the vehicle. It can also be integrated in the infeed to the tank, but this has disadvantages in terms of the contact time between the tap water and the filter and ion exchange medium during the filling process. Inline installation as a bypass of the water pump or in the tank, or as an inline element upstream of the injectors, has proven to be promising. The latter variant, in particular, has palpable benefits in terms of costs and serviceability.
The concept of filling the tank with tap water presents tough requirements, especially considering local markets, as water quality and composition vary greatly around the world. MAHLE benefits from its global expertise in the areas of filtration and engine technology and incorporates the results of regional tests in the development. As part of the ongoing tests, MAHLE is also investigating the treatment of water that is obtained on board during vehicle operation. Water sources include the air conditioning system and the exhaust gas flow, which has a water content of about 13 percent for stoichiometric combustion.
SOURCE: MAHLE
