KEEP YOUR CONSTRUCTION VEHICLES IN GOOD CONDITION WITH QUALITY DEF

Construction equipment runs on diesel fuel that keeps them alive for the required time. Can you imagine what happens to the equipment if this fuel or diesel gets damaged?

Let’s have a detailed discussion about it. Imagine if you are operating equipment and it starts breaking down more frequently, what possible elements you will check?

The first thing you will is its fuel or engine. If the engine is going well, then the fuel or any liquid you have used in the machine must be checked. Right?

This is where you should keep your focus while operating construction vehicles on the site. The Diesel exhaust fluid is one of the important liquids used in the machine that determines the performance of the equipment.

What did you get from it? It is as important to be good as your blood in the body to keep it moving perfectly.

Did you get how important a good DEF is? What impact will it have on the equipment performance is still uncovered. Let’s get into detail.

Know the importance of a good quality DEF in heavy equipment

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is one of the fluids you need to pay close attention to keep your heavy equipment like a motor grader operating efficiently.

Many people confuse this DEF with other fuels as contributing element in pollution. However, DEF is not responsible for releasing harmful gases into the environment. 

To get the most out of your heavy equipment, you must make sure that DEF is purchased, handled, and stored properly. Even slight negligence and ignorance can cost you a hefty amount on mishaps, equipment breakdowns or fuel replacement. 

This will protect your equipment and guarantee that you comply with the rules.

Which type of DEF is most suitable for your equipment?

When you enter the market to get the DEF, a lot of options you will get to see. It will make you confused, about which one to choose and how to evaluate the most suitable one.

It is a must that when you choose the DEF, it must complement your construction vehicles. For this purpose, you need to analyze and see the equipment manual first, so that you may have an idea which one to choose. 

Always verify the brand and manufacturer information before making a purchase of DEF, whether from a merchant or on-site. 

Although some areas demand this information on receipts, it is best to double-check.

You also need to make sure the DEF is kept out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry location when purchasing from a retailer. Look for indications of damage, leaks, or contamination on the box. 

DEF should never be bought from compromised or damaged containers as it usually happens that they are expired and have foul smells. All you need to do is to check the API certification mark, which ensures that the DEF satisfies stringent industry standards.

Additionally, make sure the product is functional and fresh by checking the expiration date. Request the most recent batch if there isn't a date showing.

The best way to store the DEF properly

Did you know that only if you store the DEF properly and according to the standard practice, you can prolong the life of your DEF and ultimately the equipment as well. 

To preserve quality, store DEF in a cool, shaded location whether it's in a garage or on-site. Always use the oldest supply first to prevent expired fluid because properly stored DEF can last up to a year. 

Keep in mind the temperature when storing DEF inside the motor grader. Its shelf life is shortened to roughly six months if it is kept at temperatures higher than 86°F for prolonged periods of time. 

Use opaque containers and keep them in shady places because exposure to sunlight can also reduce the quality of DEF.

Best practices to pour DEF in heavy equipment

Always use specialized equipment while applying DEF to your motor grader to prevent contamination. 

Pitchers, hoses, and funnels that have been used for other fluids should not be used. After cleaning with distilled or deionized water, DEF should be used to rinse the dispensing equipment. 

Since tap water might introduce pollutants that impair performance, it should never be used for cleaning.

This is how you should manage DEF in cold weather

When it comes to managing and storing DEF, cold temperatures present unique difficulties. 

Do not use chemicals or additives to melt DEF if it freezes within the motor grader. DEF is designed to work properly at the right concentration. The majority of contemporary motor graders with SCR systems come with integrated heating components that thaw frozen DEF, enabling a smooth startup and operation.

Remember that it is a must to keep in mind that DEF grows by up to 7% when frozen when stored in cold climates. 

Avoid filling storage containers or vehicle tanks to the brim during freezing temperatures to avoid damaging them.

Let’s Wrap it up

You can make sure heavy equipment satisfies emissions regulations and operates well by buying certified DEF, managing it carefully, and storing it appropriately. 

When you follow these best practices into effect, you can protect your equipment, and the environment and save expensive repairs and downtime. You can always refer to the equipment manual and guides to know what type of DEF is suitable for your equipment model and how to store it in a proper way. Never ignore such little details or else you will get into trouble.