Suzuki adds microplastics filter to outboard engines

The filter system is designed to be used on outboard engines rated at 40hp and above and fits in under the engine cowling.

It taps into the water used for the engine’s cooling system, with Suzuki saying the microplastics filter having no effect on the engine’s performance or cooling efficiency “because of its innovative design”.

“This system has been tested extensively aboard Suzuki-powered boats in Japan, and has proven to be highly effective,” Suzuki’s US division said in a statement announcing the innovation.

“Research has been expanded abroad and further improvements will be made based on these findings.

“The filtering system has already demonstrated its ability to collect a wide variety of microparticle pollution, including urethane, nylon and wood chips, among other materials.”

The collecting device taps into the engine’s thermostat outlet, and feeds water back down to the middle unit. It includes a bypass flow just in case the filter blocks the main flow due to all the microparticles collecting in it.

Suzuki said it saw the introduction of the microplastics filter – initially as an option on its outboard engines from next year, but under serious consideration as a future standard fitment – as a “positive first step” in a wider push to clean up the planet’s waterways.

“We are excited about taking this significant step, where our motors can actually be part of a solution for a critical environmental issue,” Suzuki Motor of America president Max Yamamoto said.

“We have long recognised that Suzuki customers are avid fishermen and boaters who care about the environment.

“This is something we can do together to protect our oceans, lakes and rivers so that future generations can enjoy them.”

Microplastics are small pieces of plastic that naturally break up in the world’s waterways, and include microfibres from clothing, microbeads, and small nodules of plastic less than 5mm that have broken up naturally from larger pieces.