Articles
Innovations in DEF Dispensing Technologies
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), also known as AdBlue, is a crucial component in modern diesel engines for reducing harmful emissions. The need for efficient and reliable DEF dispensing technologies has grown, leading to significant innovations in this area.
Say goodbye to breakdowns and costly unreliable parts, and hello to cleaner, more efficient DEF filling processes.
Flush-Faced Couplings
Traditional fluid transfer systems can be prone to leaks, spills, and contamination. Banlaw’s DEFMate couplings represent a significant step forward by using a flush-faced design. This design ensures that only matched fittings can connect, preventing cross-contamination and reducing the risk of leaks and spills.
The flush face also means there are no recesses where dirt and contaminants can accumulate. The coupling system also facilitates a closed system, which prevents significant temperature changes or exposure to air, which are leading causes of DEF crystallisation.
Improved Flow Rates and Automation
Innovations in DEF dispensing technologies have significantly improved flow rates and automation, enhancing operational efficiency and user experience. These advancements address the unique challenges of handling Diesel Exhaust Fluid while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
The shift towards automated DEF dispensing brings several advantages:
- Reduced manual handling, improving workplace safety
- Increased accuracy in blending and dispensing, ensuring proper DEF concentration.
- Enhanced inventory management through integration with ATG systems.
- Improved compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards.
By implementing these advanced flow rate and automation technologies, businesses can significantly boost their operational efficiency while maintaining strict quality control in DEF handling and dispensing
Mechanical Systems
Banlaw’s FillSafe Zero offer innovative solutions for DEF dispensing and tank overfill protection:
- The FillSafe Zero system operates using fuel pressure, eliminating the need for external power sources or wiring.
- The system automatically terminates fuel flow once the tank is full, preventing overfills and ensuring consistent, accurate filling to specified levels.
- FillSafe Zero prevents pressure build-up in the tank, avoiding potential tank ruptures and fatigue.
- The integrated design optimises fuel flow and minimises pressure drop, allowing for higher refuelling flow rates without premature nozzle shut-off.
- The system works with existing refuelling hardware and can be configured for a wide range of diesel-powered machines and stationary tanks.
- When used with compatible Dry Break refuelling nozzles, receivers, and vents, FillSafe Zero provides a backup ‘pressurised tank’ shut-off system.
- Customers can mix-and-match various Flow Control Valve and Level Sensor options to suit specific requirements, including multiple tanks on the same machine.
These mechanical systems enhance safety, efficiency, and reliability in DEF dispensing operations while minimising the risk of spills and overfills.
Cold Weather DEF Dispensing
Many industries, particularly mining and construction, operate in extreme weather conditions. In these environments, DEF can freeze or become difficult to handle, thus impacting operations. Tt’s crucial to consider both winter blend fuels and appropriate fluid transfer management equipment to maintain productivity and ensure staff safety. Winter blend fuels contain additives that lower the temperature at which diesel fuel gels, keeping vehicles operational in cold conditions. However, these additives can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 3%, resulting in a 0.5-0.75 MPG loss.
We off a range of extreme temperature products designed for the coldest worksites, including:
- Refuelling equipment
- Overfill protection systems
- Fluid transfer equipment
These products are specifically crafted and rigorously tested to handle hydrocarbons and other industrial fluids in harsh winter conditions, allowing operations to continue smoothly through cold month
Regulatory Compliance and Best Practices
These innovations are crucial to meeting regulatory requirements and industry best practices for environmental protection and safety. For example, in New South Wales, Australia, the Protection of the Environment Operations (Underground Petroleum Storage Systems) Regulation 2019 sets out the standards for underground petroleum storage systems (UPSS).
While this regulation focuses on petroleum, the principles of leak prevention, spill control, and proper handling of hazardous fluids apply to DEF as well. The standard AS1940:2017, which addresses the storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids, also impacts DEF storage. These kinds of standards and regulations ensure that operations involving DEF are carried out with appropriate safety measures and environmental responsibility.
DEF Storage and Dispensing Advancements
These innovations in DEF dispensing technologies are transforming the way manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and equipment owners handle DEF requirements. By addressing the unique challenges of DEF storage and dispensing, these advancements contribute to more efficient and environmentally friendly diesel engine operations.
DEFMate’s key features are its affordability, improved speed and efficiency (up to 120lpm), and enhanced safety features, including a flush-faced design to prevent leaks and contamination. The system is designed for reliable operation in extreme temperatures and conditions and integrates with Banlaw’s FillSafe overfill protection for automated tank filling.
For more information about DEFMate, please refer to the Product Flyer and Technical Product Data Sheet on our Downloads page or contact a Banlaw specialist.