In 2005 the legislation on diesel vehicles in the UK & Ireland and in the rest of Europe demanded a drastic reduction of NOx emissions. As a result of this, most new trucks, buses, coaches and vans built after 2005 have been equipped with SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction).
In short, If you have a purchased a new commercial vehicle that is manufactured to meet Euro IV, V or VI standards i.e. a truck, bus, coach or van, it will require AdBlue®.
Cleaner Emissions
AdBlue is essential for the cleansing and reduction of harmful emissions and is injected into the exhaust gasses before they enter the atmosphere. It is stored safely within a separate tank on the vehicle, and is specifically measured and applied by spraying into the exhaust manifold, reacting with the gasses within it, creating the cleansing and catalytic effect. AdBlue consumption is typically around 3% – 5% of the diesel consumption for a typical vehicle, dependent of loading weight and other relative factors.
Requirement for Public Transport
Since 2005, the use of AdBlue® has been a fundamental requirement for many types of public transport including bus and trucks produced on or after that date. Dependent on the truck and mileage it is generally acknowledged that a vehicles AdBlue® stocks will need to be replenished approximately every 10 days. This is based on each vehicle having a 80 –90 litre AdBlue tank.
This generally equates to around 1000 litres each month for each vehicle and is not required to apply retrospectively, due to the difficulties in applying the requirement to older modes of transport.
There are very stringent quality and regulatory standards in place to govern the way AdBlue® is produced and to ensure that it conforms with government regulations including the DIN70070 and ISO22241 standards.
Importance of Handling & Storing AdBlue®
By upholding and complying with the relevant guidelines, AdBlue® will perform its role to the highest standards but due to nature of the product it is easy to compromise the overall quality.
Such things include handling and storage to name the most prevalent types of misuse and it is not uncommon for vehicle manufacturers to fail to support warranties if this type of misuse has occurred.
The two most important things to remember when handling and storing AdBlue® is the storage temperature, which should never fall below -11°C and secondly to prevent any foreign objects from coming into contact with the solution causing contamination.
Providing it is stored correctly and is free from contamination, it is widely accepted that AdBlue® has a shelf life of 12 months.
AdBlue® Pack Sizes
For light users with only 1 or 2 SCR fitted vehicles, we can supply AdBlue in plastic 205 litre barrels / drums as well as any manual or electric pumps and spill protection equipment as needed.
For medium usage we recommend purchasing a 1000 litre plastic IBC and a pump.When the IBC is empty we will come and swap it over with a new, full IBC.
For hauliers and large fleets we can also offer bulk AdBlue deliveries (2000 litres+) providing you already have your own storage tanks on site.
Summary
To conclude, AdBlue® is a fundamental resource for many modes of transport and is so important it has been made an essential regulation that requires strict adherence and governance. It is neither a fuel or a fuel additive, but a high purity urea solution that must be used in a dedicated tank on your vehicle.
AdBlue® is harmless, non-flammable and non-explosive. It is classified as a transportable fluid with minimal risk. If you ever spill AdBlue on your hands, simply wash them thoroughly with water.
Ready to purchase AdBlue®?
If you are ready to order AdBlue or if you require any further help and information regarding it, please call Compass Fuels and speak to a member of our team on 0330 128 9838 or alternatively please fill out the Contact Us form.
What other services do we offer?
- Red Diesel (Gas Oil)
- DERV (White Diesel)
- Lubricants
- HVO Fuel
- Tank Sponge
- Fuel Tank Hire
- Fuel Up-Lifts and Waste Fuel Oil Removal
- Barrel Deliveries