It targets diesel engines’ exhaust’s nitrogen oxide (NOx) content. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been enacting some laws to address environmental needs and reduce air pollution since 2010. So, DEF has become more remarkable than ever.
Although this solution has several benefits, Poor quality DEF and other DEF problems can cause significant damage and expensive costs such as diesel exhaust fluid crystallization.
If you want to see the process of diesel exhaust fluid crystallization, watch the video
Contents
Why Azure?
Azure chemical is one of the best Diesel exhaust fluid leaders and wholesalers in Southern California. It will help all distributors and customers fulfill their handling and storage ambitions.
This company delivers its products in bulk DEF solutions, mini-bulk storage, or a diesel exhaust fluid tank for diesel-powered vehicles without any common problems such as DEF crystallization in a tank. Azure is ready to promote green manufacturing methods and forgives green living by reducing diesel emissions.
When the Quality of Diesel Exhaust Fluid Be Affected? What Causes DEF to Crystallize?
DED Crystallization is one of the common problems that can greatly affect diesel exhaust fluid. It can occur in 2 ways:
- Over-dosing
- Hard water top ups
The first one usually occurs when too much DEF is added. When the AdBlue has not fully hydrolyzed, it can cause crystallized deposits in the injector nozzle or exhaust. The second one can also result in deposits forming and disrupting the system.
How to Test AdBlue for Crystallization?
Proactively monitoring your diesel engine and DED level can significantly prevent the problems. As we said, diesel exhaust fluid crystallization can cause some issues that we can test for prevention.
DEF Crystallization is not a process that happens in the blink of an eye. It builds up over time. So by some testing, you will have realized that the tank may or may not show some problems which can cause crystallization.
Testing DEF for evidence of minerals such as Calcium, evaluating the quality of solution during delivery, and monitoring exhaust piping and DEF injectors are some tests you can do to prevent possible losses.
Does Diesel Exhaust Fluid Have a Low Freeze Point?
Aqueous urea solution of 32.5% will crystallize at 12 F or -11 degrees Celsius, which is lower than the water freezing point. While the poor quality of this fluid can affect freezing, even the best DEF is prone to freezing. So, learning how to keep it safely stored is essential.
Can I add Coolant to the DEF mixture to keep it from Crystalizing?
The specific formula of DEF is largely made from Urea and water; however, the fluid contains other compounds for product stabilization. Adding antifreeze can reduce the NOx reducing properties, compromise its ability to work correctly, and may damage the selective catalytic reduction system.
How do I stop DEF crystallization?
When the urea begins to build a chain, DEF crystallization is made. To prevent this process, make sure that proper seals are used. Try to wipe down any urea crystallization as soon as it forms. It is recommended to use an appropriate tank for storage. The low level of this solution in a tank also increases the chance of crystallization. So it is better to keep the AdBlue tank full or nearly full to minimize crystallization.
Conclusion
Diesel exhaust fluid will freeze in the tank below 12 F. The AdBlue crystallization may hurt the engine and the SCR systems. So it is necessary to stop DEF crystallization.
Resources:
https://www.capitalremanexchange.com/20-facts-you-need-to-know-about-diesel-exhaust-fluid-def
