If your material handling, industrial or light construction equipment runs on diesel, chances are you also need Diesel Exhaust Fluid, or DEF. The EPA has mandated that all diesel powered vehicles, including mini excavators, skid steer loaders and compact track loaders, reduce their dangerous NOx emissions and DEF is the optimal way to do this. Here are eight best practices to help you get the most from your DEF.
- Don’t Mix DEF with Fuel
On many vehicles, the filler inlet for the DEF tank is in the same area as the filler inlet for your fuel tank. Putting DEF in your fuel tank or vice-versa will have disastrous consequences. DEF in the fuel tank will result in the engine stopping and can cause serious damage to the engine and fuel system. Fuel in the DEF tank will result in costly damage to the SCR system. Many manufacturers use a blue cap to designate the DEF tank so you’re less likely to confuse it with the fuel tank but always double check before dispensing.
- Keep the Area Clean
Airborne or residue contamination that makes its way into the DEF will affect SCR system performance. This will lead to engine de-rating and can even damage the engine. Wiping off dirt and grime from the DEF tank, pump, hose, nozzle, cap and area around the filler inlet before transferring the DEF will help prevent impurities from entering the system.
- Store DEF Properly
While DEF is non-toxic, non-polluting, non-hazardous and nonflammable, it must still be stored properly. DEF is corrosive to metals including carbon steel, aluminum, copper and zinc so it should only be stored on containers made of stainless steel and HEDP plastic. You should also avoid storing DEF in a container that was previously used to store something else; you should have dedicated DEF storage containers that are not used for anything else. To maximize shelf life, DEF should be stored out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry place.
- Monitor DEF quality
If DEF isn’t stored properly, the urea can decompose and change the concentration of the mixture. This can take it out of the optimal urea concentration, which is between 32.5 - 37%. If the DEF has been exposed to high temperatures for a long period of time or if it’s reaching the end of its shelf life, use a digital refractometer to check the urea concentration to ensure that it’s still within the optimal range before using it.
- Top Off the Tank
A good practice to get into is topping off the DEF tank daily. This will prevent condensation from building up in the tank, which can cause the DEF to degrade.
- Don’t Add Water
You might be tempted to add your own water to the system to extend the mileage from your DEF. DON’T DO THIS. In addition to changing the urea concentration (see #4), it will also introduce impurities to the system. A buildup of calcified mineral deposits will degrade and clog the SCR system, resulting in maintenance charges, unplanned downtime, and the purchase of costly replacement parts.
- Use Trusted Suppliers
Not all DEF is created equal. In addition to making sure it has been stored properly and is free of contaminants, you also want to make sure that your DEF urea concentration is correct. Most importantly, your DEF should meet the ISO 22241 quality standard. This guarantees that it meets all of the required characteristics set by the ISO. Failing to use IOS certified DEF can have several negative consequences, including: voiding the warranty on the machine’s SCR exhaust injection system, leading the onboard diagnostics system to put your vehicle in crawler mode or causing your vehicle to have NOx emissions beyond legal limits.
- Avoid Using Expired DEF
While DEF can last up to two years when stored in optimal conditions, a good rule of thumb to follow is a shelf life of 12 months. If you’re purchasing DEF at a service station, look for a place that clearly identifies what you’re purchasing at the pump. For DEF in containers, look for an expiration or packaging date to help you determine its shelf life. When purchasing DEF for the shop, you should avoid buying more than you can reasonably expect to use in a timely manner. Don’t throw money away buying DEF in bulk if you won’t be able to use it before it expires.
There are many benefits to running a diesel vehicle, including better gas mileage, cleaner emissions and overall better efficiency. But like taxes, DEF is a necessary evil. By practicing proper DEF usage now, you’ll save yourself for a larger headache later of having to deal with costly downtime and parts replacement. Don't waste valuable time searching for DEF. TVH has portable 2.5 gallon jugs, as well as 55 gallon drums so you’ll always have DEF close at hand.
References
https://www.discoverdef.com/def-equipment/handling-guide/