Exhaust gas treatment device

Abstract

The invention relates to an exhaust gas treatment device. The invention also relates to an internal combustion engine comprising such an exhaust gas treatment device (100), and to a method for operating such an internal combustion engine. The exhaust treatment device (100) comprises an elongate exhaust manifold (10) having a plurality of inlets (11), and a catalyst vessel (20) comprising at least one first catalyst element (21), in particular an SCR catalyst element, and a collector section (22). The collector section (22) is connected to an outlet (40) of the exhaust treatment device (100) via a conduit (32) through the exhaust manifold (10). The exhaust treatment device (100) comprises at least one interface (50) for connecting a second catalyst, in particular a fuel slip catalyst (110). The interface (50) comprises at least one interface outlet (51) fluidly connected to the conduit (32) and at least one interface inlet (52) fluidly connected to the outlet (40).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an exhaust gas treatment device for an internal combustion engine, a conversion kit for such an exhaust gas treatment device, an internal combustion engine comprising such an exhaust gas treatment device and a method for operating such an internal combustion engine.

[0002] The present invention particularly relates to a dual fuel internal combustion engine which can use ammonia or methanol or any other toxic or hazardous fuel as fuel. Background Art

[0003] The internal combustion engine can be operated in a gas mode using mainly gaseous fuel. The internal combustion engine can also be operated in a liquid mode, in which mainly liquid fuel, such as heavy fuel oil or diesel fuel, is used. Therefore, the term "gas mode" or "operating in gas mode" refers to the use of gas or gaseous fuel as the fuel for torque-producing combustion. However, in the gas mode for induced ignition of a premixed air-fuel mixture, it is possible and quite common to inject a small amount of self-igniting liquid fuel (such as heavy fuel oil or diesel fuel) for induced ignition, but the torque-producing combustion process is mainly operated using gas or gaseous fuel.

[0004] The internal combustion engine can be a diesel or gas engine, a dual fuel or multi-fuel engine. The combustion of liquid and / or gaseous fuels in such an engine is possible, as well as self-ignition or forced ignition.

[0005] Furthermore, the term internal combustion engine particularly includes not only dual-fuel engines and large engines in which the main fuel is ignited with the aid of a pilot injection of a self-igniting fuel, but also optionally also employing pre-chamber solutions.

[0006] The term internal combustion engine also specifically includes dual fuel engines, which can be fueled by conventional fuels (such as diesel or LNG) and alternative fuels (such as ammonia or methanol), with reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a lower carbon footprint than conventional fuels. However, operation with alternative fuels may require diesel for positive ignition.

[0007] The invention preferably relates to internal combustion engines, such as large ship or boat engines or stationary engines having cylinders with an inner diameter of at least 200 mm.

[0008] The internal combustion engine is preferably a two-stroke engine or a two-stroke crosshead engine.

[0009] The internal combustion engine may be a longitudinally scavenged two-stroke engine.

[0010] The engine speed is preferably below 800RPM, and more preferably below 200RPM, especially for a 2-stroke engine, which indicates that it is a low-speed engine.

[0011] The fuel can be diesel or marine diesel or heavy fuel oil or emulsion or slurry or methanol or ethanol and gas such as liquid natural gas (LNG) liquid gasoline (LPG) and the like.

[0012] Other possible fuels that may be added upon request are: LBG (liquid biogas), biofuels (eg oil made from algae), hydrogen, synthetic fuels from CO2 (eg made from electricity to gas or electricity to liquid).

[0013] Ammonia-fuelled ships are increasingly being developed and built, or adapted for engines powered by ammonia-fuel, following a 2018 IMO commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping.

[0014] Ammonia is a synthetic product obtained from fossil fuels, biomass or renewable sources (wind, solar, water or heat), and when produced from renewable sources, ammonia will have virtually no carbon footprint or emit any CO2, SO2, or CO2 emissions when burned. X , particulate matter or unburned hydrocarbons. The same applies to other hazardous fuels.

[0015] When the fuel is ammonia, it is desirable to minimize the emission of ammonia, as ammonia is hazardous and has a pungent odor. This is especially true for crew safety and when the engine is stopped due to a change to conventional fuel or due to an unexpected event.

[0016] Typically, the exhaust gas is treated in an exhaust aftertreatment device to remove any hazardous components of the exhaust gas.

[0017] EP2527611 A1 proposes a compact design for an aftertreatment device, in which an elongated exhaust manifold and a catalyst container are arranged parallel to each other and separated from each other by a partition wall extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0018] The exhaust receiver may be fluidly connected to the turbocharger while also being fluidly connected to some aftertreatment.

[0019] An aftertreatment system for a dual-fuel diesel-ammonia engine, such as disclosed in WO2023049925 A1, may include an ammonia slip catalyst (ASC) located directly downstream of a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst.

[0020] All the pipes and valves for such fluid connections take up space and need to be customized for each engine system, depending on which turbocharger is used, which arrangement of turbochargers, which arrangement and components of exhaust treatment devices. This adds complexity and cost.

[0021] In order to add a fuel slip catalyst to the exhaust treatment device (which may be beneficial in reducing residual ammonia or methanol), additional piping and valves must be installed, all of which are subject to the risk of leakage and again increase complexity and cost. Summary of the invention

[0022] The object of the present invention is therefore to at least partially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to create an exhaust gas treatment device, a retrofit kit for such an exhaust gas treatment device, an internal combustion engine comprising such an exhaust gas treatment device, and a method for operating such an internal combustion engine which provides safer operation and / or is less complicated.

[0023] Thus, as a first aspect of the present invention, an exhaust treatment device for an internal combustion engine includes an elongated exhaust manifold having a plurality of inlets and a catalyst container.

[0024] Typically, each inlet connects a respective cylinder outlet with the elongated exhaust manifold.The inlets may be arranged adjacent to each other along the longitudinal axis of the elongated exhaust manifold.

[0025] The catalyst container includes at least one first catalyst element and a collector section. The collector section is arranged downstream of the catalyst element so that the exhaust gas having passed through the catalyst element can enter the collector section.

[0026] The internal combustion engine may be a dual fuel internal combustion engine which may be fueled, for example, by diesel and ammonia or diesel and methanol.

[0027] The first catalyst element may be a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst element. Selective catalytic reduction refers to the conversion of nitrogen oxides (also known as NOx) into nitrogen and water with the aid of a catalyst. Typically, a reducing agent such as anhydrous ammonia, aqueous ammonia or urea solution is added to the exhaust gas flow and reacts on the catalyst.

[0028] The collector section is fluidly connected or connectable to an outlet of the exhaust treatment device via a pipe passing through the exhaust manifold.Thus, the outlet of the exhaust treatment device can be arranged close to the exhaust manifold, which can provide a compact design.

[0029] The exhaust gas treatment device comprises at least one interface for connecting a second catalyst, in particular a fuel slip catalyst, such as an ammonia slip catalyst (ASC) or a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC). The second catalyst can be used to mitigate emissions of slipped fuel and / or reductant, in particular for removing residual ammonia.

[0030] The second catalyst may include at least one second catalyst element and a second catalyst container for accommodating the second catalyst element.

[0031] The interface includes at least one interface outlet fluidly connected to the conduit and at least one interface inlet fluidly connected to the outlet.

[0032] The interface is arranged downstream of the first catalyst element, wherein the term "downstream" relates to the typical flow direction of the exhaust gases from the cylinder to the outlet.

[0033] The interface is used to attach a second catalyst downstream of the first catalyst and upstream of the outlet.

[0034] The interface outlet may be fluidly connected or fluidly connectable to an inlet of a second catalyst. The interface inlet may be fluidly connected or fluidly connectable to an outlet of a second catalyst.

[0035] The interface specifically allows upgrading existing exhaust gas treatment devices by adding or replacing a second catalyst.

[0036] When the interface outlet is connected to a conduit that is fluidly connected to the outlet, this arrangement provides not only treatment in the second catalyst, but also or alternatively provides a bypass for bypassing the interface and second catalyst, if desired or advantageous.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container may be arranged adjacent to each other and may be bounded from each other by at least one partition. The exhaust manifold may be fluidly connected or fluidly capable of being connected to the catalyst container via at least one orifice provided in the at least one partition for directing the exhaust gas through the first catalyst element to the collector section during operation.

[0038] By means of the arrangement described, no pipe elements are required between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container to guide the exhaust gas from the exhaust manifold to the catalyst container. In addition, thermal contact between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container is easier to establish. The advantage of thermal contact is that a sufficiently high operating temperature is provided for the catalyst without the need for additional heating.

[0039] The exhaust manifold and the catalyst container can be arranged in a common housing and / or on a common frame. This in turn has advantages in terms of size and / or thermal contact.

[0040] The catalyst container may comprise two first catalyst elements, for example arranged at opposite lateral ends of the catalyst container. Thus, the partition may comprise a plurality of apertures, for example at the lateral ends of the elongated exhaust manifold. After having passed the first catalyst elements, the exhaust gas may be collected in a central collector section arranged between the two catalysts.

[0041] The catalyst container may comprise at least two catalyst elements arranged parallel to each other and supplied with exhaust gas through the same orifices in the partition.

[0042] The ducts may form additional openings in the baffles, or may be secured to openings in the baffles, so that the exhaust gases may exit the collector section and may pass through the elongated manifold on the way to the outlet.

[0043] The duct branch can advantageously be arranged in the exhaust manifold and can be adapted to connect the duct to the outlet on the one hand and to connect the duct to the at least one interface outlet on the other hand. This results in reduced size and / or better thermal contact.

[0044] A pipe bifurcation usually connects an inflow section and two outflow branches. A pipe can be formed by an inflow section and one of the branches, while the other branch is connected to an interface outlet.

[0045] The pipeline branch provides a fluid connection between the collector section and the outlet via the pipeline on the one hand and between the collector section and at least one connection outlet via the pipeline on the other hand and branches branching off from the pipeline.

[0046] Alternatively, a duct branch may be arranged in the exhaust manifold, connected to the duct.

[0047] The duct branch typically connects an inflow section and at least two or more outflow branches. The duct may be formed by the inflow section and one of the branches, while the other branches are connected to the interface outlet. Each of the other branches provides for connecting the duct fluid to a corresponding one of the at least two interface outlets, while the duct provides for directing the exhaust gas directly to the outlet.

[0048] At least one interface outlet can preferably be accessible from outside the exhaust manifold. In particular, the interface outlet is arranged on the exhaust manifold or outside the exhaust manifold. This leads to better accessibility, for example for maintenance work and / or for connection to a pipeline or a second catalyst.

[0049] The branch of the pipe divergence or the branch of the pipe branch may pass through the housing of the elongated exhaust manifold to the outside of the elongated exhaust manifold.

[0050] Piping elements that pass through parts of the housing or bulkhead provide additional stability, as they must be secured to avoid leaks. Thermal fluctuations have the same effect on all components, making thermal compensation elements unnecessary.

[0051] The interface may comprise connection means, such as flanges, for fixing the pipe and / or for fixing the second catalyst.

[0052] A second catalyst can be attached to the interface, or an already installed second catalyst can be replaced without affecting the exhaust treatment device, in particular without opening the exhaust manifold. Thus, the exhaust treatment device is more universally applicable, since the exhaust treatment device can be used with and without an installed second catalyst. The interface also allows easy installation of a suitable second catalyst, for example when the internal combustion engine needs to be refueled with new fuel.

[0053] The interface outlet can advantageously include an interface outlet valve. In particular, the interface outlet valve is arranged in the interface outlet. The interface outlet valve can be used to open and close the fluid connection between the pipeline and the interface outlet, in particular between the pipeline and the second catalyst. The interface outlet valve can preferably be provided for controlling the flow rate through the interface outlet.

[0054] An example of such an interface outlet valve and all other valves in this application is a butterfly valve. Such a valve can be easily adapted to the required diameter and presents a narrow profile with installation advantages. In addition, flow regulation is possible.

[0055] Preferably, the interface outlet valve is accessible from outside the exhaust manifold. This results in better accessibility, for example for maintenance work and / or for connection to a pipeline or a second catalyst.

[0056] When no second catalyst is mounted to the interface, or when it is not necessary or desirable to direct the exhaust gas to the second catalyst, the interface outlet valve can be set to a closed state. For example, when the internal combustion engine is driven in diesel mode and when there is no excess reductant, no fuel leakage can be expected. Therefore, the second catalyst can be avoided, which is advantageous in terms of service life and performance.

[0057] The interface inlet may preferably include an interface inlet valve. In particular, the interface inlet valve is arranged in the interface inlet. The interface inlet valve can be used to open and close the fluid connection between the second catalyst and the outlet. The interface inlet valve can also be used to control the flow rate through the interface inlet.

[0058] When no second catalyst is installed to the interface, or when it is not necessary or desirable to direct the exhaust gas to the second catalyst, the interface inlet valve can be set to a closed state. The closed interface inlet valve can prevent the exhaust gas from flowing back to the second catalyst. Therefore, the use of the second catalyst can be avoided, which is advantageous in terms of service life and performance.

[0059] The exhaust manifold can advantageously be fluidically connected directly to the outlet via a bypass duct.In particular, the bypass duct comprises a bypass valve which is preferably arranged in the bypass duct.

[0060] The bypass valve may be set to an open state when it is not necessary or desirable to direct the exhaust gas through the first catalyst element or through the first catalyst element and the second catalyst, for example where exhaust gas treatment should be avoided, for example for cost reasons.

[0061] The exhaust gas treatment device may preferably further comprise a main outlet valve, which is preferably arranged in the duct or downstream of the duct. In particular, the main outlet valve is accessible from outside the exhaust manifold. The main outlet valve may be used to open and close the fluid connection between the collector section and the outlet. The main outlet valve may also preferably provide for controlling the flow rate between the collector section and the outlet.

[0062] The main outlet valve can be arranged downstream of the pipeline bifurcation or pipeline branch and / or in the pipeline bifurcation or pipeline branch so that when the main outlet valve is set to a closed state, the exhaust gas leaving the collector section is forced into another one or more branches and towards the interface outlet or interface outlet.

[0063] The exhaust gas treatment device may alternatively or additionally comprise at least one main inlet valve arranged between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container, in particular at least one opening arranged in a partition wall between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container.

[0064] The main inlet valve can be used to open and close the fluid connection between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container. The main inlet valve can also be used to control the flow rate between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container.

[0065] The main inlet valve may be set to a closed state so that exhaust gas cannot be directed to the corresponding first catalyst element.

[0066] The exhaust gas treatment device may include a plurality of main inlet valves, a portion of which may be set to a closed state so that only a portion of the first catalyst element is used.

[0067] By setting all first main inlet valves to the closed state and by setting the bypass valve to the open state, the exhaust gas can be directed completely directly to the outlet.

[0068] The exhaust gas treatment device can advantageously comprise at least one second catalyst, in particular at least one fuel slip catalyst, connected to the at least one connection.

[0069] A fuel slip catalyst, such as an ammonia slip catalyst, may also be used to remove residual reductant, which may, for example, be dosed into the exhaust gas treatment device upstream of the first catalyst element.

[0070] The second catalyst may preferably be arranged at a lateral end of the catalyst container and / or in thermal contact with the catalyst container. This is advantageous in that a sufficiently high operating temperature is provided for the second catalyst without the need for additional heating.

[0071] The second catalyst may be arranged on the exhaust manifold and / or in thermal contact with the exhaust manifold. The second catalyst may be arranged on an outer wall of the exhaust manifold, which may be arranged opposite to a partition between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container.

[0072] In particular, the second catalyst may be integrated in the exhaust manifold.The second catalyst may be arranged in a common housing with the exhaust manifold and preferably in a common housing with the catalyst housing.

[0073] The second catalyst may be mounted on a frame, which may be secured to the exhaust manifold and / or the catalyst container.

[0074] The arrangement of the second catalyst close to the exhaust manifold provides a compact design and better heat transfer. The second catalyst can be heated by the hot exhaust gas leaving the cylinder and entering the exhaust manifold. This advantageously provides a sufficiently high operating temperature for the second catalyst without the need for additional heating.

[0075] The exhaust gas treatment device may advantageously comprise at least two second catalysts connected to the at least one interface.The exhaust gas flow of a certain volume leaving the collector section may then be divided into at least two streams for the respective second catalysts.

[0076] Thus, two or more second catalysts can be used in parallel, which results in a higher contact area and a lower velocity with a split volume exhaust flow. As a result, the pressure drop in each second catalyst is lower compared to a series arrangement of the second catalysts. This is advantageous in terms of performance and catalytic effect.

[0077] According to a second aspect of the invention, an internal combustion engine, in particular a dual fuel combustion engine, preferably an ammonia fuel combustion engine, comprises at least one cylinder and at least one exhaust gas treatment device as described above in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

[0078] The internal combustion engine can comprise one, in particular exactly one, exhaust gas treatment device for all cylinders of the engine.

[0079] The internal combustion engine may comprise one, in particular exactly one, exhaust gas treatment device as described above for up to seven cylinders of the engine, in particular for up to six cylinders of the engine, in particular for up to four cylinders of the engine. This is due to the fact that on a given number of cylinders, a second, third, etc. manifold with its own second, third, etc. exhaust gas treatment device is usually used.

[0080] The internal combustion engine may preferably include a turbocharger, which may be fluidly coupled or connected to an outlet of the exhaust treatment device.

[0081] The internal combustion engine may advantageously comprise a control unit adapted to switch the operating mode between the first operating mode, the second operating mode and the third operating mode.

[0082] In a first operating mode (eg stage 2), the bypass valve is open.In a first operating mode, the main inlet valve and the main outlet valve are closed, while preferably the interface outlet valve is closed, and while preferably the interface inlet valve is also closed.

[0083] In the first operating mode, the exhaust gas can be directed directly to the outlet without passing through the catalyst housing and the second catalyst. This saves costs.

[0084] In the second operating mode (e.g., IMO III diesel operation or IMO III ammonia operation without the second catalyst), the bypass valve is closed. In the second operating mode, the main inlet valve and the main outlet valve are opened, while the interface outlet valve is closed, and preferably the interface inlet valve is also closed. In the second operating mode, the exhaust gas can only be directed through the catalyst housing without passing through the second catalyst. Therefore, for example, NOx reduction is feasible without utilizing the second catalyst, such as ASC, for example in the diesel operating mode. This leads to improved performance and durability of the second catalyst.

[0085] In a third operating mode (eg, IMO III class ammonia operation with a second catalyst), the bypass valve is closed.In the third operating mode, the main inlet valve is open and the main outlet valve is closed, while the interface outlet valve and the interface inlet valve are open.

[0086] In the third operating mode, the exhaust gas can be led through the catalyst housing and subsequently through the second catalyst. Thus, for example NOx reduction as well as utilizing the second catalyst (eg ASC) becomes possible. This results in cleaner exhaust gas.

[0087] A similar operating mode can be defined for methanol operation of an internal combustion engine.

[0088] A main inlet valve is preferably arranged in at least one of the apertures.

[0089] The main outlet valve is preferably arranged in the pipeline or downstream of the pipeline.

[0090] The port outlet valve is preferably arranged in the port outlet.

[0091] A port inlet valve is preferably arranged in the port inlet.

[0092] According to a third aspect of the invention, a retrofit kit for an exhaust gas treatment device as described above in relation to the first aspect of the invention comprises at least one second catalyst connectable to an interface, in particular at least one fuel slip catalyst.

[0093] In this context, “connectable” means in particular that after the connection between the interface and the second catalyst is established, the interface and the second catalyst are fluidically connected or can be fluidically connected.

[0094] In this context, "fluidically connectable" means that a fluid connection can be achieved if an obstruction would be removed from the fluid path, such as when a valve is opened.

[0095] In particular, the at least one second catalyst comprises a pipe system having a first pipe connectable to the interface outlet and a second pipe connectable to the interface inlet. Preferably, a flange connection can be established.

[0096] The retrofit kit may be used, for example, to equip an already existing exhaust gas treatment device with a fuel slip catalyst or to replace a fuel slip catalyst of an exhaust gas treatment device.

[0097] A fourth aspect of the invention relates to a method for operating an internal combustion engine as described above in relation to the second aspect of the invention, comprising an exhaust gas treatment device according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0098] To operate the internal combustion engine in the first operating mode, the bypass valve is opened.For the first operating mode, the main inlet valve and the main outlet valve are closed, and the port outlet valve and preferably the port inlet valve are closed.

[0099] As long as the internal combustion engine is in the first operating mode, the valve setting is not changed and the exhaust gas is directed directly to the outlet and is not allowed to pass through the first catalyst element and the second catalyst.

[0100] To operate the internal combustion engine in the second operating mode, the bypass valve is closed.For the second operating mode, the main inlet valve and the main outlet valve are open, and the port outlet valve and preferably the port inlet valve are closed.

[0101] As long as the internal combustion engine is in the second operating mode, the valve setting is not changed and exhaust gas is directed through the catalyst element but is not allowed to pass through the second catalyst.

[0102] To operate the internal combustion engine in the third operating mode, the bypass valve is closed.For the third operating mode, the main inlet valve is open and the main outlet valve is closed, while the port outlet valve and the port inlet valve are open.

[0103] As long as the internal combustion engine is in the third operating mode, the valve setting is not changed and the exhaust gas is led through the catalyst element and subsequently through the second catalyst.

[0104] The operating mode can be set by the control unit as a function of parameters of the internal combustion engine (eg load, ambient temperature, engine temperature, engine pressure, fuel mode, etc.) or as a function of regulatory obligations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0105] Further advantageous aspects of the invention are explained below by means of exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings. Functionally equivalent elements have the same reference numerals. In the accompanying drawings, in schematic form:

[0106] Figure 1 : shows a schematic diagram of an internal combustion engine;

[0107] Figure 2 : A schematic diagram showing a first example of an exhaust gas treatment device in a perspective view;

[0108] Figure 3 : A schematic diagram showing a second example of an exhaust gas treatment device in cross-section;

[0109] Figure 4 : Shown in perspective with cross-section Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a first example of an exhaust gas treatment device;

[0110] Figure 5 : A schematic diagram showing a third example of an exhaust gas treatment device in a perspective view;

[0111] Figure 6 : A schematic diagram showing a portion of a fourth example of an exhaust gas treatment device in perspective view;

[0112] Figure 7 : A schematic diagram of a fifth example of an exhaust gas treatment device is shown in perspective view.

[0113] Reference numerals

[0114] Exhaust treatment device 100

[0115] The second catalyst 110

[0116] Pipeline System 111

[0117] Internal combustion engine 1

[0118] Cylinder 2

[0119] Turbocharger 3

[0120] Flue 4

[0121] Long exhaust manifold 10

[0122] Multiple entrances 11

[0123] Catalyst container 20

[0124] The first catalyst element 21

[0125] Collector section 22

[0126] Main outlet valve 23

[0127] Partition 30

[0128] Orifice 31

[0129] Pipeline 32

[0130] Pipeline fork 33

[0131] Main inlet valve 34

[0132] Branch 35

[0133] Exit 40

[0134] Bypass pipe 41

[0135] Bypass valve 42

[0136] Bypass opening 43

[0137] Interface 50

[0138] Interface outlet 51

[0139] Interface entry 52

[0140] Interface outlet valve 53

[0141] Interface inlet valve 54

[0142] Frame 60

[0143] Control unit 70 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0144] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an internal combustion engine 1 is shown.

[0145] The internal combustion engine 1 comprises a cylinder 2 and an exhaust gas treatment device 100 having an elongated exhaust manifold 10, a catalyst container 20 and a second catalyst 110. The internal combustion engine 1 further comprises a turbocharger 3 and a flue 4.

[0146] Exhaust gas leaving the cylinders 2 may be directed through the exhaust gas treatment device 100 and subsequently through the turbocharger 3 before being discharged through the flue 4 .

[0147] Since all components have a large space requirement and the available space on board is limited, it is important to arrange the components in a compact manner while allowing accessibility.

[0148] The internal combustion engine 1 generally includes a control unit 70 for controlling the movement of pistons and cylinder valves (not shown in the figure) and valves of the exhaust gas treatment device 100 .

[0149] Figure 2 An exhaust treatment device 100 is shown that includes an elongated exhaust manifold 10 and a catalyst container 20 .

[0150] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 includes a device that can be connected to the turbocharger 3 (see Figure 1 ) exit 40.

[0151] When the bypass valve 42 is open, the bypass conduit 41 including the bypass valve 42 fluidly connects the elongated exhaust manifold 10 to the outlet.

[0152] The exhaust treatment device 100 includes an interface 50 for connecting to a second catalyst 110 (not shown in the figure). The interface 50 includes an interface outlet 51 (not shown in the figure) fluidly connected to the pipe 32, and at least one interface inlet 52 (see also FIG. 1 ) fluidly connected to the outlet 40. Figure 4 ).

[0153] The valves of the exhaust gas treatment device 100 (e.g. the bypass valve 42) are controlled by the control unit 70. The valves can be set to an open or closed position or any position in between for controlling the flow rate of the fluid connection through the valve. In this example, the control unit for controlling the exhaust gas treatment device 100 is the same as the control unit of the internal combustion engine 1 (see Figure 1 ). Alternatively, there may be a separate control unit for controlling the exhaust gas treatment device 100 , or the control unit for controlling the exhaust gas treatment device 100 may be part of the control unit of the internal combustion engine 1 or may be integrated in the control unit of the internal combustion engine 1 .

[0154] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a second example of an exhaust gas treatment device 100 according to the present invention is shown in cross section.

[0155] The catalyst container 20 accommodates two first catalyst elements 21 , in particular SCR catalyst elements, and a collector section 22 arranged between the first catalyst elements 21 .

[0156] The elongated exhaust manifold 10 and the catalyst container 20 are arranged adjacent to each other and are delimited from each other by a partition 30. Thus, space is saved and thermal contact between the exhaust manifold and the catalyst container is more easily established. The exhaust manifold 10 is fluidly connected or fluidly connectable to the catalyst container 20 via an orifice 31 provided in the partition 30 for guiding the exhaust gas through the first catalyst element 21 to the collector section 22 during operation.

[0157] A main inlet valve 34 is arranged in each aperture 31. When the main inlet valve 34 is open, exhaust gas can enter the first catalyst container 20. The exhaust gas is directed through the first catalyst element 21 and then collected in the collector section 22.

[0158] Collector section 22 is connected to an outlet 40 (not shown in this figure) of exhaust treatment device 100 via a conduit 32 passing through exhaust manifold 10 .

[0159] A duct branch 33 is arranged in the exhaust manifold 10 and is suitable for connecting the duct 32 to the outlet 40 on the one hand and to the interface outlet 51 on the other hand.

[0160] The exhaust gas may branch off from the duct 32 and be directed to the interface outlet 51 .

[0161] The elongated exhaust manifold 10 comprises a bypass opening 43 through which the exhaust gases can be directed to the outlet 40 (not shown in this figure).

[0162] Figure 4 Another perspective view with a cross section is shown. Figure 2 Schematic diagram of a first example.

[0163] The elongated exhaust manifold 10 includes a plurality of inlets 11 for allowing the exhaust gas from the cylinders 2 (see FIG. Figure 1 )The exhaust gas discharged enters the elongated exhaust manifold 10.

[0164] A duct branch 33 is arranged in the exhaust manifold 10 which is suitable for connecting the duct 32 to the outlet 40 on the one hand and to the interface outlet 51 on the other hand.

[0165] The main outlet valve 23 is arranged in one branch of the pipeline branch 33 , and the port outlet valve 53 is arranged in the other branch.

[0166] Depending on the valve setting, exhaust gas from collector section 22 is directed to either outlet 40 or interface outlet 51 (or to both at a specific ratio based on the flow rate setting of the valve). The second catalyst may have an optimal capacity that may be associated with a specific flow rate. By appropriately setting the valve, maximum reduction of hazardous components may be achieved.

[0167] With the main outlet valve 23 open and the port outlet valve 53 closed, the exhaust gas is directed to the outlet 40 .

[0168] With the main outlet valve 23 closed and the port outlet valve 53 open, the exhaust gas is directed to the port outlet 51 .

[0169] Downstream of the main outlet valve 23 and upstream of the outlet is an interface inlet 52. A pipe (not shown in the figure) of the second catalyst 110 (not shown in the figure) can introduce exhaust gas from the second catalyst into the interface inlet 52.

[0170] Alternatively, if the bypass valve 42 arranged in the bypass duct 41 is open, the exhaust gas will be directed from the elongated exhaust manifold 10 directly to the outlet 40 .

[0171] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a third example of an exhaust gas treatment device 100 is shown in a perspective view.

[0172] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 includes an elongated exhaust manifold 10 and a catalyst container 20 .

[0173] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 comprises a port 50 having a port outlet 51 and a port inlet 52 .

[0174] The second catalyst 110 installed at the longitudinal end L of the catalyst container 20 may be fluidly connected to the interface 50 via a piping system 111 .

[0175] When the port outlet valve 53 arranged downstream of the port outlet 51 and the port inlet valve 54 arranged upstream of the port inlet 52 are open, a fluid connection can be established between the port 50 and the second catalyst 110 .

[0176] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a portion of a fourth example of an exhaust treatment device 100 is shown in perspective view. A second catalyst 110 is mounted on a frame 60 fixed at a longitudinal end L of the elongated exhaust manifold 10 .

[0177] Since the interface outlet 51 is arranged at the lateral end L of the elongated exhaust manifold 10, a short duct system 111 is sufficient for fluidly connecting the second catalyst 110. This saves space and creates a better thermal contact.

[0178] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a fifth example of an exhaust gas treatment device 100 is shown in a perspective view.

[0179] The exhaust gas treatment device 100 comprises two port outlets 51 and two port inlets 52 , each having a corresponding port outlet valve 53 or a port inlet valve 54 .

[0180] Therefore, two second catalysts 110 are mounted at the respective longitudinal ends L on the elongated exhaust manifold 10 .

[0181] One branch 35 (not shown) of the pipe bifurcation 33 arranged in the elongated exhaust manifold 10 provides two interface outlets 51 extending toward the lateral end L of the elongated exhaust manifold 10. Therefore, the pressure drop in each second catalyst is lower than that of the series arrangement of the second catalysts. This is advantageous in terms of performance and catalytic effect.

[0182] Notice:

[0183] Any embodiment described with respect to the device should similarly relate to the method.Synergy effects may result from different combinations of embodiments, although they may not be described in detail.

[0184] While there are shown and described presently preferred embodiments of the invention, it is to be distinctly understood that the invention is not limited thereto but may be otherwise variously embodied and practiced within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An exhaust gas treatment device (100) for an internal combustion engine (1), the internal combustion engine being in particular a dual-fuel internal combustion engine capable of using ammonia as fuel, the exhaust gas treatment device comprising: an elongated exhaust manifold (10) having a plurality of inlets (11), a catalyst container (20) comprising at least one first catalyst element (21), in particular an SCR catalyst element, and a collector section (22), wherein the collector section (22) is connected to an outlet (40) of the exhaust gas treatment device (100) via a conduit (32) passing through the exhaust manifold (10), The exhaust gas treatment device (100) comprises at least one interface (50) for connecting a second catalyst, in particular a fuel slip catalyst (110), The interface (50) comprises at least one interface outlet (51) fluidly connected to the conduit (32) and at least one interface inlet (52) fluidly connected to the outlet (40).

2. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to claim 1, wherein: The exhaust manifold (10) and the catalyst container (20) are arranged adjacent to each other and are delimited from each other by at least one partition (30), wherein the exhaust manifold (10) is fluidically connected or can be fluidically connected to the catalyst container (20) via at least one orifice (31) provided in the at least one partition (30) for guiding the exhaust gas through the first catalyst element (21) to the collector section (22) during operation.

3. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: In the exhaust manifold (10) a line branch, in particular a line fork (33) is arranged, which line branch is suitable for connecting the line (32) on the one hand to the outlet (40) and on the other hand to at least one interface outlet (51).

4. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The interface outlet (51) is accessible from outside the exhaust manifold (10), and in particular, the interface outlet (51) is arranged on the exhaust manifold (10) or outside the exhaust manifold (10).

5. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The interface outlet (51) comprises an interface outlet valve (53), and in particular, wherein the interface outlet valve (53) is arranged in the interface outlet (51).

6. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The interface inlet (52) comprises an interface inlet valve (54), and in particular, wherein the interface inlet valve (54) is arranged in the interface inlet (52).

7. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The exhaust manifold (10) can be fluidly connected directly to the outlet (40) via a bypass duct (41), and in particular, wherein the bypass duct comprises a bypass valve (42), which is preferably arranged in the bypass duct (41).

8. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a main outlet valve (23), which is preferably arranged in the duct (32) or downstream of the duct, in particular accessible from outside the exhaust manifold (10), and / or At least a main inlet valve (34) is arranged between the exhaust manifold (10) and the catalyst container (20), in particular in at least one orifice (31) in a partition (30) arranged between the exhaust manifold (10) and the catalyst container (20).

9. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one second catalyst, in particular at least one fuel slip catalyst (110), connected to the at least one interface (50).

10. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to claim 9, wherein: The second catalyst (110) is arranged - at a lateral end (L) of the catalyst container (20) and / or in thermal contact with the catalyst container (20), and / or on the exhaust manifold (10) and / or in thermal contact with the exhaust manifold (10), and in particular, wherein the second catalyst (110) is integrated on the exhaust manifold (10) or in the exhaust manifold (10).

11. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein: The second catalyst (110) is mounted on a frame (60) which is fixed to the exhaust manifold (10) and / or the catalyst container (20).

12. The exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, comprising at least two second catalysts (110) connected to the at least one interface (50).

13. An internal combustion engine (1), in particular a dual-fuel combustion engine, preferably a combustion engine using ammonia as fuel, comprising at least one cylinder (2) and at least one exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to at least one of the preceding claims, And specifically, wherein the internal combustion engine (1) includes an exhaust gas treatment device (100) for all cylinders of the internal combustion engine (1), or wherein the internal combustion engine (1) includes an exhaust gas treatment device (100) for each of up to seven cylinders (2) of the internal combustion engine (1), in particular for each of up to six cylinders (2) of the internal combustion engine (1), in particular for each of up to four cylinders (2) of the internal combustion engine (1).

14. An internal combustion engine according to claim 13, comprising a turbocharger (3), the turbocharger (3) being fluidically connected to an outlet (40) of the exhaust gas treatment device (100) or being fluidically connectable to the outlet (40) of the exhaust gas treatment device (100).

15. An internal combustion engine according to claim 13 or 14, comprising a control unit (70) adapted to switch between the following operating modes: a first operating mode, in which the bypass valve (42) is open, and the main inlet valve (34) preferably arranged in the at least one orifice (31) and the main outlet valve (23) preferably arranged in or downstream of the duct (32) are closed, and in which preferably the interface outlet valve (52) preferably arranged in the interface outlet (51) and the interface inlet valve (54) preferably arranged in the interface inlet (52) are closed, a second operating mode, wherein the bypass valve (42) is closed, and the main inlet valve (34) preferably arranged in the at least one orifice (31) and the main outlet valve (23) preferably arranged in or downstream of the duct (32) are opened, and the interface outlet valve (52) preferably arranged in the interface outlet (51) is closed, and preferably the interface inlet valve (54) preferably arranged in the interface inlet (52) is closed, and A third operating mode, wherein the bypass valve (42) is closed, and the main inlet valve (34) preferably arranged in the at least one orifice (31) is opened and the main outlet valve (23) preferably arranged in or downstream of the pipeline (32) is closed, and wherein the interface outlet valve (52) preferably arranged in the interface outlet (51) and the interface inlet valve (54) preferably arranged in the interface inlet (52) are opened.

16. A retrofit kit for an exhaust gas treatment device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the retrofit kit comprising at least one second catalyst (110) connectable to an interface (50), and in particular, wherein the at least one second catalyst (110) comprises a first conduit connectable to an interface outlet (51) and a second conduit connectable to an interface inlet (52), and in particular, wherein the second catalyst is a fuel slip catalyst.

17. A method of operating an internal combustion engine according to claim 15, in, For the first operating mode, the main inlet valve (34) preferably arranged in the at least one orifice (31) and the main outlet valve (23) preferably arranged in or downstream of the duct (32) are closed, and the interface outlet valve (52) preferably arranged in the interface outlet (51) and the interface inlet valve (54) preferably arranged in the interface inlet (52) are closed, and the bypass valve (42) is opened, wherein, for a second operating mode, the main inlet valve (34) preferably arranged in the at least one orifice (31) and the main outlet valve (23) preferably arranged in or downstream of the duct (32) are opened, and the interface outlet valve (52) preferably arranged in the interface outlet (51) and the interface inlet valve (54) preferably arranged in the interface inlet (52) are closed, and the bypass valve (42) is closed, Wherein, for the third operating mode, the main inlet valve (34) preferably arranged in the at least one orifice (31) is opened and the main outlet valve (23) preferably arranged in or downstream of the pipeline (32) is closed, and the interface outlet valve (52) preferably arranged in the interface outlet (51) and the interface inlet valve (54) preferably arranged in the interface inlet (52) are opened, and the bypass valve (42) is closed.

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