WESTON, FL -- GFS Corp., which provides alternative fuel solutions for heavy-duty diesel engines, said it has entered into an agreement with Alpha Coal West Inc. to convert three Caterpillar 793 (240 MT) trucks to liquid natural gas (LNG) operation. 

The converted trucks will be operated at Alpha’s Belle Ayr Coal Mine outside Gillette, Wyo., and will be used in both overburden and coal haul service. Alpha Coal West is a subsidiary of Alpha Natural Resources Inc.

GFS will convert the trucks onsite using a proprietary bi-fuel solution that includes on-board LNG storage and engine controls. After conversion, the mine haul trucks will operate using 50- to 70-percent LNG for most operating modes. The trucks will retain the ability to operate on 100-percent diesel fuel if required. 

Under the terms of the agreement, all three LNG-powered mine haul trucks are scheduled to be operational in early 2012.

“We look forward to working with Alpha Natural Resources, one of the world’s leading coal companies, to assist them in finding new ways to improve both the environment and the bottom line," said Jason Green, president of GFS Corp.