Nonroad Compression-Ignition Engine Emission Certification

Part 1039 addresses covered nonroad compression-ignition engines. Determine the actual engine use, rated power category, model year and any relevant exemption before selecting emission limits. Similar diesel engines can fall under different regulatory programs when installed in highway vehicles, stationary equipment, vessels or locomotives. A supplier's general statement that an engine is EPA compliant is insufficient without a defined family, model year and intended installation.

EPA's certification process uses manufacturer registration and the Engines and Vehicles Compliance Information System. Applications include the applicable certification dataset and supporting material for an engine family and model year. Part 1039 identifies information such as emission controls, test results, deterioration factors and the proposed emission label. Certification planning should account for the complete data package and any applicable fees rather than treating submission as an automatic approval.

Part 1065 provides engine testing procedures, while Part 1039 supplies category-specific emission and compliance provisions. Test conditions, fuel, duty cycle, instrumentation and deterioration treatment affect the meaning of a result. A test for a different regulatory category or operating configuration may not support the required certification. Preserve the tested configuration, software and emissions-related components so production engines can be compared with the application basis.

Engines require durable identification and emission control information under the applicable rules. Equipment manufacturers need the engine maker's installation instructions, including any requirements affecting emission controls or label visibility. A changed exhaust system, cooling arrangement or electronic configuration can affect compliance. Where the original label is obscured in the completed equipment, duplicate-label provisions may apply; the installation review should resolve that issue before release.

EPA's framework includes production and in-use responsibilities, records, emissions-related defect reporting and recall provisions. Certification relates to the approved configuration, so unauthorized changes or defeat of emission controls can create independent violations. Quality personnel should retain traceability for emissions-related parts and software, investigate field failures and coordinate technical changes with the certificate holder instead of assuming that the initial certificate covers every later modification.

For procurement, match the engine family and model year on the engine label with the relevant certificate and application information available from the supplier or EPA. Identify any exemption relied upon and its conditions. Federal certification does not settle every state, local, workplace or operational requirement. A controlled equipment specification should record the applicable emission program, permitted installation and supporting evidence for the exact configuration purchased.