BECOMING FAMILIAR WITH DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID (DEF)

In order to ensure compliance with emissions regulations, contractors must be familiar with the special care required for equipment using diesel exhaust fluid ("DEF").

Tier 4 Final emissions standards have been mandatory for most off-road diesel engines sold in the United States since 2014. These regulations aim to reduce particulate matter and nitrates of oxygen, two exhaust pollutants. Smog is mainly composed of nitrates of oxygen, which are accumulated in the exhaust from previously untouched soot.

DEF is required to meet Tier 4 Final standards, converting pollutants into oxygen, water, and nitrogen through injection into the exhaust stream. Extra fuel tanks with blue caps will be installed on machines that require DEF. A DEF indicator light on the equipment allows the operator to know when more DEF is needed. When you add diesel fuel, it is recommended to add DEF as well. Watch Carter’s short video on how to keep your Tier 4 Final machines functioning properly, for more information.

Keeping your machine's DEF pure is critical, since even one tenth of a teaspoon can contaminate a 5,000-gallon tank with metals, such as nickel, copper, and zinc. The presence of small amounts of other contaminants (two teaspoons or less) can also compromise your machine. These contaminants include iron, calcium, potassium, and sodium.

As a result of the accumulation of these trace metals, problems can occur, including:

• Pollution caused by increased exhaust
• Violation of a manufacturer's warranty
• Consumption of DEF is higher

Keeping DEF Clean

Clean DEF can be achieved in several ways. Make sure your tank is not contaminated by doing the following:

• Pump fittings and components can contaminate DEF if they contain metals. High-density polyethylene or stainless steel containers are recommended.
• Maintain proper storage conditions: Avoid direct sunlight, extreme heat, or extreme cold when storing DEF. There are 18-36 months of shelf life for DEF in cooler climates. A 12-18-month shelf life is expected in warmer climates.
• Using antifreeze can damage your system, as some additives claim to prevent freezing, but they are not officially sanctioned by the American Petroleum Institute. When DEF freezes, it is safe to use, but must be thawed before use.)

Whether you need DEF equipment tools for your car, truck, or boat, GROZ carries it all. The full range of our products includes DEF carts, drums, filters, hoses, meters, pumps, valves, and more.