Last Post Update: April 2, 2024
Storing Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) in the Summer
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a reality nowadays if you’re running newer trucks in your fleet. How to store DEF, or more specifically, how you go about storing diesel exhaust fluid, is an important consideration, especially with the summer months ahead of us. Cold weather doesn’t really affect DEF, but heat and prolonged exposure to sunlight certainly cause it to degrade. Now, you might be wondering how to store DEF fluid in the summertime to prevent this degradation.
What’s the recommended DEF fluid storage temperature to ensure its quality and effectiveness?
According to ISO22241, Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) needs to be stored in a cool, dry place. Ideally, DEF storage temperatures should be between 12°F (11°C) and 86°F (30°C).
This recommendation is based on the fact that storing DEF can lose its potency if stored above 86°F for prolonged periods of time.
Why Proper DEF Storage Matters
DEF, despite its simple composition, can be quite sensitive. When exposed to extreme temperatures, especially heat, the urea can degrade, reducing the shelf life and effectiveness of DEF in emission control. This degradation not only impacts the environment but can also affect the performance of the diesel fuel engine, leading to increased maintenance costs.
For more information on DEF storage or to find out how you can Order DEF to be shipped or schedule BULK DEF, contact Fuel Logic HERE.
What to Do When Storing DEF in the Summertime
So, what happens if you are filling your DEF tanks from a tote sitting outside in the heat this summer? The first thing to understand is that they are referencing the product temperature, NOT the outside air temperature. The product temperature will continually rise and fall based on the surrounding air temperature and will most likely not be held at a constant temperature. Is it a good idea to keep and store your DEF out of the sun or inside. Absolutely, if you can, we would definitely recommend it.
Best Practices to Store DEF for Construction Equipment in Hot Weather
• Shaded Storage: Always store DEF containers and tanks in a shaded area, keep it away from direct sunlight as safe practice. This helps in maintaining a more stable temperature and prevents rapid degradation.
• Use UV-Resistant Containers: If available, use containers that are UV-resistant. They offer an added layer of protection against the harmful effects of direct sunlight.
• Regularly Check Product Temperature: Invest in a quality thermometer to check the DEF’s temperature. This ensures it stays within the optimal DEF storage temperature parameters.
• Sealed Storage: Ensure the DEF containers are tightly sealed to prevent contamination and evaporation.
• Rotate Stock: If you have multiple DEF containers, rotate them. Use the older stock first to ensure freshness.
• Avoid Prolonged Exposure: If possible, don’t leave DEF containers outside for extended periods. Move them to a cooler place once you’re done refilling.
Can DEF fluid be stored outside?
When considering the storage of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) outdoors, it’s crucial to ensure that it is not exposed to direct sunlight. The ideal storage condition involves placing DEF in a shaded area to prevent exposure to sunlight. Continuous exposure to direct sunlight can lead to a degradation of the urea concentration in DEF, which is vital for its effectiveness. To maintain the quality and efficiency of DEF, it’s recommended to store it at temperatures below 86°F (30°C) or in the coolest part of your storage facility. This precaution helps in preserving the integrity and effectiveness of DEF over time.
Trust in Quality DEF Supplier
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) demands the utmost purity in its composition, with deionized water being a critical component. Deionized water, devoid of salts and impurities, is essential for DEF to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel engines efficiently. Regular water and route planning, laden with minerals, can compromise the urea’s ability in the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system, emphasizing the importance of deionized water in the mixture.
When it comes to sourcing top-quality DEF, Fuel Logic stands out as a reputable supplier that adheres to ISO 22241 standards. This international standard dictates the quality and handling requirements for DEF, ensuring its efficacy. When you pick Fuel Logic, you’re picking top-notch DEF that lasts long and works great.
Ideal Outdoor Tote Storage
The “real world” reality is that most fleets cycle through DEF regularly, so the product never has time to degrade seriously. Because of this, most fleets storing DEF outside don’t see an adverse impact on the product quality. We’ve listed some best practices here if you’re storing DEF during the summer.
- Out of direct sunlight inside garages or warehouses
- Place the tote under a canopy or shaded area
- Keep caps and fittings securely tightened
- Use a tote cover
For more information on diesel exhaust fluid, DEF storage and fleet fueling.
If you want to find out how you can Order DEF to be shipped or schedule BULK DEF, contact Fuel Logic HERE.
FAQs
How should I keep DEF to ensure its quality?
To keep DEF in optimal condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and maintain an ambient temperature between 12°F and 86°F. This helps to keep DEF from freezing and preserves its quality.
What happens if DEF freezes?
DEF freezes at approximately 12°F (-11°C). If it freezes, it will expand; however, it can be thawed and still used effectively once returned to a liquid state. Always ensure the DEF is at the correct temperature before use.
How can I spot bad DEF?
A way to spot bad DEF is to check for cloudiness or any change in color. DEF is naturally clear; if it appears cloudy or discolored, it may be contaminated or spoiled.
Is it harmful if I use bad DEF in my diesel equipment?
Yes, using bad DEF can damage your SCR system. It may also lead to increased harmful nitrous oxide emissions and might affect the performance of your diesel equipment.
How should I refill the DEF in my diesel tank?
To refill DEF, use a clean nozzle specifically designed for DEF dispensing. Ensure that the nozzle is free from contaminants, and avoid mixing DEF with any other fluids to maintain its purity.
Why is DEF considered corrosive, and what precautions should I take?
DEF is corrosive to certain materials; therefore, it is essential to store it in containers made of compatible materials. Avoid contact with metals such as copper and brass, and ensure that all equipment used for dispensing DEF is designed for this purpose.
