Optimal DEF Usage for Maximum Engine Efficiency

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a crucial component in modern diesel engines, designed to reduce harmful emissions and improve performance. Understanding the optimal usage can lead to significant benefits, including enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance costs.

What is it?

DEF is a non-toxic solution composed of 32.5% urea and 67.5% deionised water. It is used in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to break down nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions into harmless nitrogen and water vapour. This process is essential for meeting stringent emission regulations and maintaining engine health.

What are the Benefits

Using DEF in your diesel engine offers several advantages:

●        Improved Fuel Economy: Usage can enhance fuel efficiency by allowing the engine to operate more effectively.

●        Reduced Engine Wear: It can help in reducing soot and particulate matter, leading to cleaner engine internals and less wear and tear.

●        Compliance with Emission Standards: It ensures that your vehicle meets current emission standards, avoiding potential fines and environmental impact.

How does it work with your engine?

In an SCR system, DEF is injected into the exhaust stream where it reacts with NOx in the presence of a catalyst. This reaction converts NOx into nitrogen and water vapour, which are harmless to the environment. The process is efficient and significantly reduces the emission of pollutants.

This fluid is sensitive to contamination and requires proper handling. It should be stored in a clean, sealed container and protected from extreme temperatures. Contaminated fluid can cause issues in the SCR system.

While this represents an additional operating cost, it is offset by the benefits it provides. The price can vary based on factors such as supply chain logistics, production costs, and regional demand. However, investing in high-quality DEF ensures the longevity and efficiency of your engine.

Selecting the right storage solution is crucial for both cost and convenience. Options range from small, portable containers to large, bulk storage tanks. Considerations include:

●        Storage Capacity: Choose a size that matches your usage to avoid frequent refills and downtime.

●        Cost Efficiency: Bulk purchasing can reduce the cost per gallon but requires adequate storage facilities.

●        Maintenance: Regularly check and clean storage tanks to prevent contamination

How to Calculate DEF Usage

As mentioned earlier, your fluid container is proportional to your gas tank. As long as you fill both around the same time, you should be able to avoid running out of fluid. However, if you get off schedule or want a more precise method of tracking your usage, you can use a basic equation.

Most of this fluid burns at a rate of 2-5% of your diesel fuel. Contact our team to find out the exact rate for your equipment or test it yourself. From there, you can multiply your fuel consumption by 0.02 or 0.05, giving you an idea of how much you’ll need for a certain job.

For example, if your burn rate is 3%, you’ll go through three gallons for every 100 gallons of diesel. If you estimate you’ll need 250 gallons of diesel for a job, you’ll need at least 8 gallons of fluid for it to last the entire project* estimations only.

The Impact of Idle Time

Whether you want to improve fuel efficiency or save money, it’s important to understand how idling can impact your DEF levels. Aside from using more fuel without moving, it can crystallise or collect soot buildup when your equipment idles.

The more particulate matter that builds up in the tank, the more likely your vehicle will require sudden regens. A regen occurs when the buildup blocks the system from working as it should, stopping the equipment until it can go through a manual cleaning. This interruption can be a significant concern when you’re in the middle of a job and time is of the essence. The best way to prevent regens is to keep idle time to a minimum and turn off the equipment when not in use.

Ensuring Efficiency and Safety

Banlaw offers advanced couplings designed to prevent leaks, spills, and contamination. These flush-faced couplings only connect with matched fittings, ensuring a secure and clean transfer of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). This technology dramatically reduces the risk of crystallisation, a common issue that can impair the SCR system’s performance.

Our range of products are designed to help improve productivity.   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.