Are you afraid of stalling in the middle of the road due to engine failure? Having cleaner diesel engines means optimal vehicle performance and a reduced carbon footprint, saving the environment. What can make this possible? The answer to all these questions is – diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).
So, buckle up as we explore what DEF is, its benefits, and its significance in reducing harmful emissions.
What Exactly is DEF?
DEF is a combination of urea and deionized water. These compounds aid in converting nitrous oxide, a dangerous source of pollution from diesel engines, into water and nitrogen, two common substances present in the air we breathe.
Diesel exhaust fluid is essential for initiating the chemical process that eliminates the harmful gasses that diesel engines release. This fluid is critical in ensuring that heavy-duty trucks and machinery meet the federal emissions regulations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Due to these criteria, DEF is a widely utilized chemical in practically every diesel engine. It acts as a reducing agent in the chemical reaction occurring in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems.
What is the Role of Selective Catalytic Reduction in DEF?
SCR, or selective catalytic reduction, is another popular abbreviation associated with diesel exhaust fluid. This emissions control technique makes DEF work with the engine’s exhaust. It injects the DEF into the exhaust stream via a catalyst, where it initiates a chemical reaction that converts nitrogen oxide to nitrogen, water, and some carbon dioxide.
The SCR system creates an oxidizing environment ideal for a nitrogen oxide reduction reaction. It is a low-cost, fuel-efficient, and powerful device for combating high emissions and environmental damage. SCR can decrease nitrogen oxide emissions and other pollutants by about 90%. In addition to lowering emissions, SCR and DEF can improve fuel efficiency, with many drivers claiming benefits of 3-4%.
Since the EPA passed the Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) in 2010, diesel engines have used DEF to comply with emissions regulations. DEF demand has risen as people become more aware of climate change and the need to reduce emissions as much as possible.
Top 5 Diesel Exhaust Fluid Manufacturers with Their Innovative Products
● BASF
BASF is a German multinational manufacturer of diesel exhaust fluids and the largest synthetic manufacturer in the world. The BASF Group offers creative solutions for new engine technologies, stricter pollution requirements, and shifting precious metals costs for emissions control problems.
BASF’s ‘Emissions Control Catalysts’ focus on protecting the environment from hazardous emissions. Novel engine technology, stricter emission rules, and increasing precious metal costs are causing many emission control issues. This novel method can cost-effectively meet the most stringent pollution rules.
● CF Industries
CF Industries is a North American manufacturer and wholesaler of farmed composts based in Deerfield, Illinois. CF Industries is expanding its manufacturing network to scale the production of blue and green ammonia. However, carbon footprints are emitted by energy-intensive businesses such as power generating and maritime shipping. CF Industries has identified ammonia as a clean energy source to meet this growing demand and promote the global energy transformation.
● Cummins Filtration
Cummins Filtration is a leading OEM and post-retail filtration expert contributing to transmissions, modern applications, and diesel motors, including motors going from 3 to over 100 liters in the uprooting process.
Cummins Filtration offers air, fuel, synthetic compounds, and exhaust framework innovation products for diesel and gas-controlled gear worldwide. It launched FleetguardFIT, a real-time filtration monitoring system using sensors and analytics to diagnose issues to prevent costly downtime.
● Nissan Chemical Corporation
In 1887, Nissan Chemical Corporation was established as Japan’s first diesel exhaust fluid manufacturer.
Nissan Chemical Corporation’s WSO technology aims to reduce water volume in oil wells with high water cuts, addressing water encroachment in Middle Eastern geological formations. It uses a selective water shut-off agent with ideal pseudo-plasticity, avoiding damage to oil columns and neutralizing unintended targets. This technology reduces operating costs and CO2 footprint without requiring temporary mechanical isolation work.
● McPherson Company
McPherson Company was founded in 1983. Its expertise includes the retail sale of canned food sources and dry goods. McPherson Oil, a diesel exhaust fluid specialist, is based in Michigan.
The company portfolio includes ProTeck Lubricants, Mobil Lubricants, and Fuel & DEF products.
Driving Toward a Greener Tomorrow
We have learned that DEF can reduce harmful emissions to improve fuel efficiency and engine performance. By embracing the use of DEF, you’re not only making a positive impact on the environment but also ensuring longevity and optimal performance of your diesel engine. It’s a win-win situation where sustainability meets power.
Remember, the use of diesel exhaust fluid is not just a trend, it’s a conscious choice toward building a greener future. Each time you fill up your tank with DEF, you’re contributing to cleaner air, reduced pollution, and a more sustainable planet.