DEF is the operating fluid for Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, which has been employed in new heavy-duty commercial vehicles since 2010. DEF isn’t a gasoline or a gasoline additive. It is injected into the exhaust system of diesel automobiles to chemically reduce NOx emissions. DEF is a high-purity urea solution that meets ISO 22241 standards. This is the highest quality and safety standard in force, ensuring that Selective Catalytic Reduction technology functions properly. Because of the fuel economy advantages of SCR over other technologies, most engine makers chose it over competing technologies. SCR has been demonstrated to enhance total fuel economy by about 5%, according to studies.
How often do you need to fill diesel exhaust fluid?
DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) has fast become a must-have on every construction site. The fluid, which is designed to minimize car emissions, works by treating exhaust gases after they have exited the engine. With DEF fluid becoming more important, read these recommendations for correct use to get the most out of your equipment.
DEF is a combination of purified water and urea used in diesel engines.
The formula is stable, colorless, non-toxic, and has an alkalinity similar to baking soda (pH). It is not a fuel, but it is used to lower the amount of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust to comply with pollution regulations.
DEF is fed into the exhaust in the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. It transforms NO2 to nitrogen gas and water vapor, both of which are innocuous air constituents.
The recommended temperature range for storing DEF is 32°F to 86°F, and it has a three-year shelf life. DEF should not be stored in direct sunlight or at temperatures below 32°F. DEF fluid must be stored in plastic or stainless steel containers due to its alkalinity, which can induce oxidization in the same manner that oxygen rusts raw steel.
- The aperture in DEF tanks is designed to only receive a DEF fill nozzle. The DEF tank aperture will not fit a conventional diesel fuel nozzle. Only the right fluid can be injected into the tank because of this protection.
- Depending on the size and horsepower of your equipment, DEF tanks can carry anywhere from 15 to 50 gallons. Make sure you have enough reserves on hand since if the DEF tank is dry, the equipment will stop working.
- Most modern equipment now includes a DEF gauge that displays the fluid level and indicates when it’s time to replace.
- When the DEF fluid level falls below 10% capacity, the operator will get a series of alerts.
- The equipment engine power will de-rate if the DEF tank contains less than 5% of its capacity. However, there will be enough power to drive a short distance so that more fluid may be added to the tank.
- Every 3 to 4 times you refuel with diesel fuel, you must fill the DEF tank once. The frequency will change depending on the circumstances.
How long does DEF fluid last?
-Components such as the DEFdosing pump and the diesel particulate filter could be damaged.
The manufacturer’s warranty may be voided in the event of equipment failure or component damage caused by poor DEF, converting these problems into costly repairs. What causes DEF to deteriorate, and how can it be avoided? Here are seven crucial aspects to consider.
1. Longevity
DEF has a shelf life because it does not include any preservatives. The good news is that DEF has a rather long shelf life; in most cases, it may be stored for up to a year without any problems.
2. Use the Right Containers
DEF’s shelf life is extended when it is stored properly. It must be kept in ISO-certified containers composed of long-lasting composite materials. Because DEF corrodes metal, storage containers made of stainless steel, polypropylene, or high-density polyethylene are suitable. It is not suggested to reuse DEF containers, even certified ones, to reduce the risk of fluid contamination.
While it may seem inconsequential, clearly label DEF and all other fluid storage containers. It’s all too common for DEF to be mistaken for conventional fuel or another fluid, and to be dumped into the wrong tank in a machine.
How often do you put DEF in a diesel engine?
When it’s time to change your DEF, all newer diesel vehicles include a dashboard warning system. To figure out how much you’ll need, you’ll need to know your engine’s efficiency.
When compared to the amount of fuel used, DEF is consumed at a rate of roughly 2-3%. For a car with a 65-gallon gas tank, this means between 1.2 and 2.0 gallons of DEF will be necessary. DEF should be replenished every third or fourth time you fill up a five-gallon DEF tank. The simplest method to avoid an issue is to simply top off on a regular basis.
How long does DEF fluid last in a truck?
Many factors must be addressed as fleet operators handle the repair needs of vehicles that are out of service or that are about to be placed back into service. The diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) that is already in the car is one of the easiest things to overlook. DEF has a finite lifespan and may need to be replaced before a vehicle may be used again.
Determine when DEF was installed in the car, according to the American Petroleum Institute. In ideal conditions, DEF has a storage life of roughly 12 months. It is advised that DEF be drained and replaced if it has been stored in the vehicle for more than a year.
What happens when you run out of diesel exhaust fluid?
Vehicle makers must implement procedures to ensure that vehicles cannot run without Diesel Exhaust Fluid, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (DEF). The driver of a vehicle receives a succession of alerts on their dashboard displays before the DEF tank runs out (much the same way as if they were running low on diesel). In general, an amber warning bulb will illuminate when the DEF tank level drops below 10%, flashing at 5%, and solid amber warning light will illuminate when the DEF tank level dips below 2.5 percent.
The engine’s power is lowered, a solid red warning is displayed, and the vehicle’s speed is limited to 5 mph until the DEF tank is refilled if the truck is allowed to run out of DEF.
How long will diesel fuel last in a tank?
In temperatures of 85 degrees, diesel fuel can last for 6 to 12 months. The fuel will then start to react with the oxygen in the tank. Diesel may become sticky as a result of this interaction. If diesel turns sticky, it can block fuel filters, causing engine problems. The sticky fuel will not burn properly, resulting in a film of soot and carbon on the engine’s inside. One possibility is to apply oxidation-resisting stability treatments.
Degradation of diesel fuel can also be caused by other sources. Fungus can grow in the presence of water in the fuel. Fungi can produce organic chemicals that break down diesel molecules. The gumming process can be accelerated by high temperatures. When metals like zinc and copper come into contact with diesel fuel, they can trigger a chemical reaction. Certain chemicals have been shown to hasten the aging process.
Will DEF freeze in my truck?
DEF, whether in storage tanks or equipment, can freeze and cause problems. When temperatures dip below 12°F, DEF begins to crystallize and ceases to function properly. Because of the precise ratio utilized, the entire mixture can freeze and thaw together like water and ice.
How many gallons does my DEF tank hold?
- A DEF gauge, like a fuel gauge, is found on CASE equipment. It displays the current fluid level and alerts you when it’s time to replenish.
- When the DEF tank’s fluid level drops below 10% of its capacity, a sequence of alerts will sound, alerting the operator.
- The equipment engine power will de-rate if the DEF tank contains less than 5% of its capacity. However, there will be enough power to travel a short distance, allowing you to add DEF to the tank.
- The DEF tank in CASE machines needs to be filled once every 3 to 4 refuelings with diesel fuel. The frequency will change depending on the circumstances.
- The DEF tank’s entrance is only big enough for a DEF fill nozzle. Only DEF can be poured into the DEF tank because of this restriction. The DEF tank aperture will not fit a conventional diesel fuel nozzle.
- DEF tanks can store anywhere from 15 to 50 gallons, depending on the size and horsepower of the equipment.
About DEF
DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) is made composed of purified water and urea and is non-toxic. It is colorless and stable. In terms of alkalinity, DEF is similar to baking soda (pH). It is not a fuel, but it is used to lower nitrogen oxide levels in emissions in order to meet emission control criteria.
DEF is fed into the exhaust in the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. It transforms NOx to nitrogen gas and water vapor, both of which are innocuous air constituents.
DEF should not be exposed to direct sunlight. The recommended temperature range for storing DEF is 32°F to 86°F, with a shelf life of 3 years on average. At 32° F, DEF begins to freeze. The vehicle’s DEF tank contains a heater that quickly thaws the DEF. Its efficacy is unaffected by freezing and thawing.
It must be stored in plastic or stainless steel containers due to its alkalinity, which can induce oxidization in the same way that oxygen rusts raw steel.
Luby Equipment Services also offers a full range of DEF transfer pumps and meters, as well as bulk storage options on-site.
CASE DEF is an American Petroleum Institute (API)certified diesel exhaust fluid that meets ISO standards for purity and composition. These are the highest quality and safety standards available, ensuring optimal SCR system functioning.
Can I put water in my DEF tank?
Registered. There will be no urea sprayed into the exhaust to convert to ammonia if you put water in an EMPTY DEF tank. Ammonia is required to remove NOX (nitrogen oxides) using the SCR system (Selective Catalytic Reducer).
