Selecting a Diesel Exhaust Fluid storage solution that improves efficiency for waste operations.<\/em>
\nBy Jeff Lowe<\/strong><\/p>\n

Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is surging through the waste industry as more operations convert their fleets to equipment powered by Tier 4 Final engines. While DEF offers plenty of benefits such as safer emissions, optimized combustion, and better fuel efficiency, several challenges come with storing DEF to maintain its full shelf life. DEF is susceptible to impurities so any\u00a0 contamination, even on a small scale, can create a big problem. The fluid is also sensitive to extreme temperatures, so equipment fleet managers need to be sure it is kept within the optimal temperature range, generally considered to be between 12\u00b0 and 86\u00b0 Fahrenheit (-11\u00b0 to 30\u00b0 Celsius). All of these factors mean finding the perfect DEF storage solution can be a tall task.<\/p>\n

Benefits of Bulk Storage<\/strong>
\nWaste operations frequently purchase DEF in cardboard boxes filled with 2 1\/2-gallon jugs. The boxes must be stored inside a temperature-controlled environment and manually hauling the jugs to pour DEF into the appropriate equipment is a time-consuming task. The relatively small quantity in the jugs means equipment requires frequent monitoring and refilling. This manual process also increases the risk of contaminants that are picked up on the boxes during storage or on the cap of the jug.<\/p>\n

Onsite DEF storage tanks were developed to address these challenges. Much like with diesel, fuel and fluid distributors can
\ndeliver quality DEF to the landfill, where operations can store it in bulk until it is ready to use. This offers the benefit of a continual DEF supply without an operator needing to consistently purchase and haul small boxes or jugs of the fluid. Bulk storage tanks hold larger amounts than cardboard boxes and offer a faster method for transferring the fluid to equipment tanks. Some also reduce the risk of contamination by providing a specially designed dispensing system with a sealed connection for filling the tank. To combat temperature issues, DEF storage and pumping solutions may offer optional systems to ensure the fluid consistently stays at ideal operating temperatures.<\/p>\n

While these larger storage tanks are helpful, some still pose challenges and not all are universal solutions. Here are some factors to consider when searching for an optimized DEF storage solution.<\/p>\n