Carbon cutting engine cleaning

A new engine carbon cleaning solution is delivering measurable environmental and operational benefits, following successful trials and early implementation across fleet and plant equipment.

The solution, delivered by RSK Group sister company 1st inrail, is designed to reduce emissions while improving fuel efficiency across company fleets, including vans and heavy plant. Powered by Advanced Hydrogen Technologies (AHT), a sub company within 1st inrail, the system uses hydrogen gas to clean internal engine components, offering a practical step toward more sustainable operations.

The technology underwent a 12-week trial in November 2024, conducted by AHT in collaboration with K2C Rail. A total of 41 vehicles were included in the trial on behalf of 1stinrail. Results showed an average reduction of 19.52% in both CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption, demonstrating clear environmental and cost-saving benefits.

Following these promising results, the technology was introduced into Geocore’s operations in early March. To date, nine vehicles, one telehandler, three rotary rigs, and three window sample rigs have undergone treatment. Additional vehicles and equipment are scheduled for treatment in the coming months.

The process itself is efficient and easily integrated into existing maintenance routines. Taking approximately 60 minutes, it works by introducing chemically free hydrogen, generated on-site from tap water, into the engine via the air intake system. Over a 45-minute cycle, the hydrogen is drawn through the engine at its normal operating rate, breaking down carbon deposits and cleaning internal components. This enables the engine to run more efficiently and reduces harmful emissions at the tailpipe. As the technology uses hydrogen the only emissions are water and air,

Beyond environmental and fuel savings, the solution is expected to deliver operational advantages. By reducing carbon build-up, it can help minimise unscheduled maintenance and improve the performance of key components such as diesel particulate filters and exhaust gas recirculation valves.

The team have won two external awards for the initiative so far, and it has been introduced into a major Tier 1 construction company’s fleet very recently.

The initiative aligns closely with RSK’s core guiding principle of promoting sustainability in all aspects of its work, as well as its “Second Nature” 2030 sustainability strategy. As organisations continue to seek practical ways to lower their environmental impact, solutions such as hydrogen-based engine cleaning represent a meaningful step forward.

If your business is interested in reducing emissions and operating costs through engine carbon cleaning, please contact the team at aht@1stinrail.com to learn more or to book a clean.