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If you use diesel equipment – especially Tier 4 – you’re already using DEF (diesel exhaust fluid). DEF is essential for keeping diesel equipment running smoothly while reducing emissions released into the atmosphere.
DEF is widely used throughout the construction industry, but many issues and questions remain about storing DEF onsite. DEF differs from fuel, yet proper handling is vital to maintain purity. Many users are yet to understand how DEF works and its importance. We’ll take a look at the fluid in our guide, why it’s a legal requirement and storage regulations that need to be followed.
DEF is the acronym for diesel exhaust fluid, a non-toxic mix of deionised water and urea. It was introduced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2010 as part of the Clean Air Act. As per these standards, heavy-duty vehicles and machinery, such as Tier 4 vehicles, off-road construction equipment, must use DEF.
The purpose of DEF is to reduce emissions released from diesel engines, as part of a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system. Without it, many engines release harmful emissions into the atmosphere, affecting our environment. Engines will also fail to work properly and eventually shutdown.
DEF is added to your equipment’s exhaust stream, creating a chemical reaction that turns nitrous oxide (NOx) into nitrogen and water. This non-toxic substance minimizes the amount of carbon released without compromising on the engine’s power.
The key with using DEF is that it cannot run dry. If a vehicle or piece of equipment runs low, the engine will automatically reduce power and eventually shut off. If this happens, it can cause hundreds to thousands of dollars of damage to the engine itself.
This is where storing DEF in bulk helps save money and prevent delays onsite – no more waiting for deliveries when there’s no diesel exhaust fluid available.
However, DEF does have an expiration date, and if it’s contaminated, its performance is affected. Your DEF storage solution must keep your stock secure and clearly labeled to help avoid cross-contamination.
DEF isn’t a fuel – you can not treat it like diesel. Maintaining its purity should be a priority.
Due to its non-toxic nature, DEF is not as regulated as fuel, but there are still some standards to follow. ISO 2224 is the standard for transporting, handling and manufacturing DEF, and it details the requirements for safe storage.
When storing DEF, you should:
Western Global has designed a unique DEF storage solution that differs from the market. Our DEFCube is a bunded, poly tank designed for long-term bulk storage of DEF. Its secondary containment is a steel outer that helps with temperature control, meaning your DEF will retain its usability even in the coldest climates. Find out more about the DEFCube.
If you pair your DEFCube with our innovative AutoDEF Replenish, then your diesel exhaust fluid is taken to the next level. Our auto-replenishment system refills your tank with DEF automatically, and comes with a purge function that reduces crystallization in the linest – learn more here.
The shelf life of DEF can depend on its storage conditions, but generally, it lasts one to two years. Once expired, it’s less effective and can lead to issues with equipment and machinery.
You should find the expiration date of your DEF clearly marked on its container. However, if you’re unsure, you can easily tell the condition of your diesel exhaust fluid by simply looking at it. DEF is naturally clear – if your stock is cloudy or has particles, it’s likely expired or contaminated.
DEF freezes at -12°F and can expand up to 7% when frozen, potentially damaging your tank – especially when full. Some try to add additives to the DEF to prevent it from freezing, but this can affect its purity and effectiveness. If you leave your diesel exhaust fluid to thaw naturally, it should still be usable.
Maintaining the temperature of your DEF has never been easier with our DEFCube. Our tank is double walled with a poly inner and steel outer, providing complete weather-proof containment that aids temperature control. We also offer an optional heater kit, rated to -40°F. Pipes and fittings are also stored behind a lockable cabinet to protect them from the elements.
If you have a TransCube Global, another option is our DEF Top Tote. This piggybacks onto our renowned TransCube as a complete dual fluid solution. Refuel equipment with both DEF and diesel in all climates. Our Top Tote is available with a 120v heater jacket, which is wrapped around the poly inner to maintain the correct temperature. The tank also has UV protection to prevent your DEF from breaking down when left in the sun.
With these measures in place, you can store DEF in bulk for long time periods, no matter the climate.
Storing DEF correctly prolongs its shelf life, minimizes contamination and ensures that equipment and off-road vehicles can perform at their best. But as DEF must be treated differently to other fuels, users find a handful of issues.
We’ve answered several of your questions regarding DEF storage below, but if you want to know more about diesel exhaust fluid and are looking for the best containers, then get in touch with our team.
If DEF is mixed with diesel, it can seriously impact your engine. It can clog up pipes and affect the lubricating properties of the fuel, leading to more wear and tear for your engine. In the worst cases, the engine will just shut down.
When this happens, fuel systems need to be flushed and thoroughly cleaned to remove all traces of contaminated substances. You can’t reuse contaminated DEF, so ensure this is disposed of safely.
This is why DEF is often stored in blue containers, and its filling caps are blue – to help differentiate it from other liquids. Only dedicated pumps and containers should be used for DEF, with all fittings safely closed and locked away to prevent drips or leaks.
Like any liquid, DEF spills can happen. But the difference is that spilled DEF isn’t a major issue.
We mentioned earlier that there are less regulations to follow when storing DEF, so you’re less likely to be fined. The only time a spill is cause for concern is if it mixes with another fuel or it’s leaked down a drain. DEF can corrode some materials and may affect the drainage pipes if this does happen.
To handle the DEF spill, simply soak up the fluid an adsorbent.
Diesel exhaust fluid spills should still be avoided. The DEFCube’s double-walled design offers complete containment, meaning that any DEF leaks would spill into the outer tank. The tank is robust and can withstand wear and tear, providing next-level protection for your diesel exhaust fluid. Leakage risk is also minimized with pipes secured behind the cabinet – you can still refuel equipment with the hose while it is locked.
If DEF runs dry, sites can be shut down for weeks or even months in the worst cases as you wait for the next delivery. If there is fuel contamination, you must also wait for equipment to be replaced. You should manage your DEF consumption as you do fuel, ensuring there’s always more fluid ready to use.
Generally, equipment and vehicles have a gauge to monitor DEF usage so you know when you’re running low.
Bulk DEF tanks are ideal for storing DEF onsite, no matter the circumstances. We’ve made sure that our tanks are fit for purpose, with the DEFCube, a robust and ready solution that helps retain the purity of your DEF, maintaining its shelf life and saving you time and money.
The tank is designed for mobility, with four-way fork pockets, meaning it can be easily transported to and from site, and even stacked when empty to save space. There’s also minimal set-up time, so once it’s dropped onsite, you’ll be up and running in no time.
We designed our DEFCube with our customers in mind. We listened to what our customers wanted and manufactured a next-level DEF storage solution unlike those currently on the market.
Providing 110% double-walled containment for security and temperature control, our DEFCube is ideal for hot and cold climates and can be lifted into challenging environments. Refuel generators and equipment as and when needed, knowing that your diesel exhaust fluid is safely contained. Find out more about the DEFCube or request a quote from our team.
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