A method for regenerating an exhaust treatment device

摘要

A method for regenerating an exhaust treatment device such as a diesel particulate filter 36 is disclosed in which an engine 12 from which exhaust gasses are produced is operated in at least two separate modes during regeneration of the exhaust treatment device 36. In one of the modes the engine 12 is operated so as to increase the temperature of the exhaust gases in a controlled and stable manner and in the other mode the engine 12 is operated so as to produce a rapid increase in the temperature of the exhaust gases entering the exhaust treatment device 36. By rapidly increasing the temperature of the exhaust gasses entering the exhaust treatment device 36, the time taken for regeneration can be reduced particularly if the engine 12 is operating under fluctuating load conditions involving a considerable amount of engine deceleration and idling.