What is AdBlue?
AdBlue, also known as Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), is a colourless liquid made from urea and de-ionised water. It has been a legal requirement to use AdBlue in diesel engines since 2015 as it reduces the amount of harmful nitrous oxide emissions released into the atmosphere which can cause acid rain.
When a diesel engine is in use, AdBlue is sprayed onto the exhaust fumes after combustion. This catalyses the breakdown of nitrous oxides into harmless nitrogen gas and water.
Why is proper AdBlue Storage so important?
So, we know why AdBlue itself is so important for diesel engines, including those used in plant machinery and your hire equipment, but how about AdBlue storage? Proper storage is essential, and there are a three main reasons for this- quality, the environment, and cost.
Maintain the quality of your AdBlue
Perhaps the most important reason to ensure AdBlue is stored correctly is to ensure that your diesel exhaust fluid remains of a high quality and to prevent plant machinery damage.
This is because storage containers without proper seals or those left open for unnecessary periods of time will allow contaminants, like dust and debris, to enter and reduce the quality of your DEF.
Furthermore, you should never consider using containers which have been previously used for diesel and oil, as this impacts the quality and purity of your AdBlue and will cause Selective Catalytic Reduction System (SCR) damage, which is often not covered by warranties.
Proper AdBlue storage also involves choosing non-corrosive materials for your container. All of our AdBlue bunded bowsers’ inner containers are made from plastic or stainless steel and this prevents rust contamination, as well as leakages.
Minimise environmental impact
AdBlue itself is used to lessen your diesel engine’s environmental impact, so it makes sense to also ensure proper AdBlue storage on your site, as this can also also help to minimise your plant’s environmental impact. While AdBlue itself has low eco-toxicity levels, the urea found within it can be polluting to groundwater and watercourses. Spillages are likely to occur with poor storage, which is something that can be completely avoided with sealable and high quality AdBlue bunded bowsers.
Save on AdBlue costs
By preventing spillages and keeping your Diesel Engine Fluid contaminant-free, you’re automatically saving on costs. A small investment into a high quality AdBlue storage bowser means that costs are saved down the line, whether that be from the cost of replacing contaminated AdBlue, clean-up costs from spillages, or the cost of replacing a damaged SCR System.
The Dos and Don’ts of AdBlue Storage
Do
- Store AdBlue in plastic or stainless steel bowsers
- Make sure that all AdBlue storage parts are non-corrosive, including pipes and dispensing systems
- Store AdBlue in our Bundie AdBlue Bowsers, all built to a high standard
- Store AdBlue in a lockable or sealable container and keep sealed when not in use
Don’t
- Store AdBlue above 30°c or below 0°c
- Store AdBlue in corrosive containers
- Store AdBlue in direct sunlight
- Keep your bunded bowser open for longer than is necessary
Here at Ace Plant, we have an entire range of high quality AdBlue bunded bowsers available for all of your AdBlue storage requirements. With new and used hire and sales options, our Bunded AdBlue Storage comes in a range of sizes to suit your plant’s applications, from 200 litre to 1500 litre capacities.
To find out more about our plant equipment, please call us on 01908 562191 today, or email us at [email protected] . Alternatively, fill out an enquiry form and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible!