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DEF
Embrun Co-op can provide you with DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) wherever you need it. Be it an on-site tank at your business or farm, or at either of our two gas stations located in Embrun. We can help.
DEF (Diesel Exhaust fluid)
DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) is one of the key elements of the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) process. It is a nontoxic solution of 67.5% purified water and 32.5% urea. When injected into hot exhaust as a fine mist and passed over a catalyst, DEF helps convert NOx (nitrogen oxide) into nitrogen gas and water vapor—two clean and harmless components of the air we breathe.
DEF is stable, colorless and odorless, and meets accepted international standards for purity and composition.
Learn more about DEF below.
Facts & Figures about DEF
- DEF is a clear, non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-hazardous organic compound.
- To achieve the nitrogen oxide (NOX) levels required by the EPA 2010 standard, most engine manufacturers are utilizing Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems that require the addition of DEF.
- DEF can be stored at temperatures of between 12°F (-11°C) and 86°F (30°C) for a maximum of 12 months.
- Consumption rates vary but are usually around 5% of diesel fuel consumed. It can be expected that 5 litres of DEF fluid will be used for every 100 litres of diesel fuel.
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Why use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)?
To achieve the nitrogen oxide (NOX) levels required by the EPA 2010 standard, most engine manufacturers are utilizing Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems that require the addition of DEF.
How do I know when to refill the DEF tank?
The EPA requires manufacturers to put measures in place to ensure that SCR equipped diesel engines do not run without DEF. In response, manufacturers have equipped SCR units with multiple step driver notification systems. Before the DEF tank runs empty, the operator is given a series of alerts on their dashboard display.
DEF notification systems vary among manufacturers, but all are designed to give the operator ample opportunity to refill the DEF storage tank before any impact to full operability. However, if DEF levels become too low or the fluid is of poor quality, the engine is derated and ultimately speed is limited to 8 kph.
How does the SCR process work?
The NOX reduction process starts with an engine burning clean Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel and producing exhaust that is already much cleaner due to leaner and more complete combustion.
Under the control of the vehicle's onboard computer, precisely metered spray patterns of DEF are injected into the exhaust stream ahead of the SCR converter allowing the exhaust gases and atomized mist of DEF to enter the converter simultaneously. Together with the catalyst inside the converter, the mixture undergoes a chemical reaction that converts the nitrogen oxides to elemental nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O).
Exhaust gases are monitored via a sensor as they leave the SCR catalyst. Feedback is supplied to the main computer that adjusts the DEF flow to keep NOX levels within acceptable parameters.
How many litres of Diesel Exhaust Fluid will I USE on average?
Consumption rates vary but are usually around 5% of diesel fuel consumed. It can be expected that 5 litres of DEF will be used for every 100 litres of diesel fuel.
Is there a chance of mixing DEF with the diesel fuel?
It is not likely. While the fuel and DEF tanks may be in close proximity, the DEF tank has a smaller opening and a different color cap than the fuel tank to prevent contamination.
How does DEF perform in cold weather?
SCR systems are designed to operate in cold climates. DEF begins to freeze into a crystalline slush at 12° F (-11° C). The 32.5% urea solution ensures that both the water and urea freeze and thaw at the same rate preventing the solution from becoming diluted. Repeated freezing and thawing does not degrade the product.
Frozen DEF expands approximately 7% and tanks are designed to accommodate the expansion.