Continental® finalizing testing of hydrotreated vegetable oil in CD-100 engine series

Photo: Continental

Continental®, a subsidiary of Continental Aerospace Technologies Holding Ltd., confirmed in late July that it is finalizing testing of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a sustainable fuel option in its CD-100 series of engines.

The CD-100 series is a family of liquid-cooled, turbocharged, four-cylinder, fuel-injected, compression-ignition, four-stroke, geared, right-rotating (clockwise) aircraft engine with FADEC dual-channel engine controls.

“This research and development investment signifies Continental’s commitment to fostering a more sustainable general-aviation industry aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental stewardship,” the company stated.

HVO, also known as renewable diesel, is a renewable and carbon-neutral fuel alternative.

This biofuel is produced from vegetable oils using hydrogen as a catalyst instead of methanol, as biodiesel uses.

In addition to vegetable oils, this premium-quality fuel product can be produced from tallow and used cooking oil.

By approving HVO for use in CD-100 engines, Continental® enables aircraft owners and operators to significantly reduce their carbon footprint without compromising their engine’s performance.

“Hydrotreated vegetable oil is one of many sustainable alternative fuels,” said David Dörner, vice president of global research and development for Continental®.

“While the industry continues to work through a wide variety of diverse, sustainable options on their path to reach decarbonization, Continental is proud to take this incremental testing step to potentially bring a cleaner fuel to our CD-100 Jet-A owners,” he continued. “Our extensive analysis has thus far demonstrated results that confirm our four-cylinder Jet-A engines exhibit seamless performance equal to traditional Jet-A fuel.”

Continental® said its action to evaluate HVO in the CD-100 series engines demonstrates the company’s forward-thinking approach to reducing the use of fossil fuels in the industry.

“By embracing sustainable practices, Continental® continues to drive positive change, setting an example for the entire general-aviation industry,” the company stated. “Continental® remains dedicated to further research and development in ecofriendly technologies, working towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for aviation.”