Application:
Muffler Cover for Exhaust Heat Retention
End Product:
Rotochopper B-66 L-Series Horizontal Grinder (Wood Chip Maker)
Engine:
Volvo Penta | 796 HP
Primary Challenge:
Maintain exhaust temperature across a 10-foot section to meet emissions standards
The Challenge
When Rotochopper redesigned the exhaust layout on their B-66 L-Series horizontal grinder, the team faced a critical challenge. To meet emissions compliance, the exhaust temperature from the turbo to the DEF injection point could not drop more than 59°F. With the muffler relocated further from the engine, heat loss across the system became a concern.
The team has been using a competitor's off-the-shelf wrap, but it wasn't a perfect fit. They were also looking for a vendor closer to home.
The Solution
Jason Parks from Suburban Manufacturing introduced the idea of working together, and the timing was right. Because Suburban is located nearby, their team was able to visit the facility, take more accurate measurements, and test-fit a prototype directly on the machine.
"The team at Suburban Manufacturing was great to work with. They test-fit the prototype wrap and made the proper adjustments to ensure a good fit around the exhaust system."
- Nikki Senkler, Lead Mechanical Engineer for Rotochopper
The ability to collaborate in person helped avoid delays and ensured the wrap would meet both performance and durability expectations.
Custom muffler cover installed on the Rotochopper.
The Result
Since installation, the custom muffler cover has held up well in the high-vibration, dusty, and sun-exposed environments that Rotochopper grinders are known for. While the machine hasn't seen a lot of hours yet, early performance has been promising.
Rotochopper making mulch with custom muffler cover on the pipe.
"We haven't thrown any default codes, which means the system is working as intended. The wrap is holding up well in the extreme conditions that our machines typically see."
- Nikki
The wrap plays an essential role in emissions control. The engine manufacturer, Volvo, requires that the temperature between the turbo and the DEF injection point remain within a narrow range, and without Python's thermal protection sleeve, the system could fall out of compliance.
Why Suburban?
Rotochopper prefers to work with vendors in the Central Minnesota region whenever possible. In this case, partnering locally brought real value. On-site collaboration made the design and fitting process more efficient and laid the foundation for a strong, ongoing relationship.
"Rotochopper tries to use vendors in the central Minnesota area when possible. Jason Parks mentioned we might be a good fit for each other, and he was right."
- Nikki
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