october2021 - 39

First of all, there is a simple way for fleets to feel
confident in the DEF they are purchasing.
" Since the composition of DEF is strictly
controlled by ISO 22241, and in North America
each manufacturer's fluid is certified by the API,
packaging for DEF should carry both the ISO
artwork and API logo to verify that it has been
manufactured correctly and in the right formulation, "
Gagnon explained.
Fleets could also look for additional assuranc»
Offered in a 2.5-gallon container, Shell Rotella
DEF meets the stringent requirements of ISO
22241 and is API-registered as a certified DEF.
Shell Lubricants
or ammelide) on the exhaust wall, thus degrading
performance of the SCR catalyst, " Gagnon
explained. " These deposits can also increase
backpressure which can decrease fuel economy
and reduce engine power. Low-speed operation,
extended idling, and frequent stop-and-go operation
all prevent the exhaust system from reaching
and maintaining optimum operating temperatures.
That contributes to deposit buildup in the
SCR system. "
Tips for fleets to
preserve DEF purity
Even when DEF has been manufactured to the
highest standards, contamination can still
occur. Gagnon explained that incorrect storage,
handling, and dispensing practices are the largest
contributors to DEF contamination.
»With regular use of BlueDEF Platinum,
harmful deposits are significantly reduced.
Old World Industries
es. BlueDEF products, for example, also feature a
batch code number printed on the package. " Our
batch code is a fleet's assurance that the DEF is
pure and has been tested to meet or exceed the
strictest OEM standards, " Gagnon said.
Similarly, DEF shipping containers such as
drums and totes are coded with the manufacture
date. " A fleet should make sure its drivers, technicians,
and other personnel are familiar with how
to understand the date code, " Shell's Jones said.
That's because DEF has a specific shelf life that
can be significantly impacted by several factors.
When storing DEF in an environment that is
86°F, useful life is reduced to 12 months. Storing
in even hotter temperatures further reduces the
useful life. Conversely, storing DEF in temperatures
of 50°F or lower can extend useful life
to roughly 36 months. When storing at room
temperature, or roughly 77°F, shelf life is about
18 months.
For a fleet that is stocking its own DEF, it's
important to think about where and how that DEF
is being stored, as well as how long it takes the
fleet to consume it. Three years is an unusually
long time to stock something as common as DEF.
On the other hand, six to 12 months might creep
up rather quickly. A fleet should gain an understanding
of its DEF consumption rate and adjust
its stocking level accordingly.
That said, the manner in which DEF is stored
presents the most risk, according to the API's
Harmening. A fleet should have a clear understanding
of the ambient
temperature of the
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October 2021 | FleetMaintenance.com
39
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october2021

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