Tier 4 Emissions Regulations

Beginning January 1, 2011, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will introduce the next phase of its Tier 4 emissions control regulations, which significantly limit emissions of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), particulate matter (PM), hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO.) These regulations affect the majority of non-road mobile equipment powered by diesel engines greater than 130 bkW, including mobile generator sets. Stationary diesel engines, such as those used in standby and prime power generator sets, are regulated separately, but to similar standards as non-road mobile equipment. However, the challenges facing the electric power industry are unique in a number of areas, particularly above 900 bkW, where the regulations focus on reducing NOx emissions from generator sets by 90%, compared to a 45% reduction for other equipment types.

What are Cashman and Caterpillar doing to prepare for Tier 4?

We want to assist you as much as possible in complying with these new emissions regulations. The new Caterpillar products will meet Tier 4 Interim standards in the United States and Stage IIIB standards in the European Union (EU). They are also expected to meet Canada's emissions requirements (which will likely be modeled after Tier 4 standards) and Japan's Step 4 regulations (which are under development and will likely be comparable to EU standards.)

Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB regulations are phased in by power rating:
- Engines rated < 19 kW or 19 ≤ kW < 56 were subject to the standards in 2008.
- Engines rated 130 ≤ kW < 560 and > 560 kW will be affected starting in 2011.
- Engines rated 56 ≤ kW < 130 must meet the new regulations beginning in 2012.
- Stage IIIB/IV and Step 4 regulations will not apply to engines rated < 19 kW.

Most Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB Caterpillar models will be introduced in 2011 and 2012. Then in 2014 and 2015, we will begin introducing Tier 4 Final/Stage IV machines. Please click on one of the tabs at the top of this page for additional Tier 4 information or contact your Cashman salesperson at 1.800.937.2326.