Defined scientifically, Diesel Exhaust Fluid is a solution that is composed of 67.5 deionized water and 32.5% purity urea, a compound of nitrogen that when heated, becomes ammonia.
Diesel exhaust fluid is a solution of 67.5% deionized water and 32.5% high-purity urea, a compound of nitrogen that turns to ammonia when heated.
“DEF is the reactant necessary for the functionality of the SCR system,” says Clint Schroer, off-highway communications, Cummins Inc. “Small quantities… are sprayed into the exhaust upstream of the SCR catalyst. This then converts the NOx [oxides of nitrogen] to harmless nitrogen and vapor.”
“Its primary function in controlling emissions,” Williamson elaborates, “is to act as an ammonia-carrying agent to create a chemical reaction between the exhaust gases and ammonia to break down NOx into nitrogen and water.” These byproducts are then released into the atmosphere via the exhaust stack/pipe.
According to Mr. Williamson of Cummins Inc.,” the primary function of Diesel Exhaust Fluid in controlling emissions is to act as an ammonia –carrying agent to create a chemical reaction between the exhaust gases and ammonia to break down to oxides of nitrogen(NOx) to nitrogen and water”.
“Similar to any fluid used with equipment and vehicles, DEF and tanks should be kept free from debris,” says Schroer. “To minimize the risk of contamination, you should treat DEFs like any other fluid you use with your machines — such as lubricants, coolants and fuels — by ensuring that they are always stored in containers and remain clean.”
As far as fluids go, DEF is fairly innocuous — it’s nontoxic, non-polluting, non-hazardous and nonflammable. But that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be treated with the same respect as other fluids found in your fleet.
A) To lessen the risks of contamination, it should be stored in containers and remain clean. Only use dedicated Diesel Exhaust Fluid equipment for storing and dispensing Diesel Exhaust Fluid. Do not use funnels or bottles that have been used for other fluids.
B) It is also recommended that they should be stored in their original packaging or they should be contained in containers of allowed /approved materials. Leprince, an expert in Diesel Exhaust Fluid further explained that “High density polyethylene can be used in bottle packages but larger containers should be stainless steel or other ISO2241-approved materials”.
C) Diesel Exhaust Fluid containers should also have their seals intact and that no foreign matter, in solid or liquid form should be added inside the container.
D) Also, materials like fuel. oil, grease, water, dust, dirt, metal and detergent should be kept away from the Diesel Exhaust Fluid to avoid contamination.
E) Store Diesel Exhaust Fluid below 86 degrees Fahrenheit in order to reach its maximum shelf life which is one year.
F) Avoid storing Diesel Exhaust Fluid in direct sunlight.
With the above-mentioned guidelines, the most important thing is to properly educate and train the people who are using and handling Diesel Exhaust Fluid. According to research, almost all contaminations of Diesel Exhaust Fluids happen in terminals which lead to the deterioration of vehicles. These guidelines have to be implemented to prevent damage.