Certas Energy: driving down emissions with AdBlue
Fuel and fluids supplier Certas Energy has issued advice for fleet operators on AdBlue storage and procurement.
“As the drive to net zero gathers pace, the haulage industry is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions,” said Lee Smythe, AdBlue sales manager at Certas Energy.
“AdBlue is used to ensure heavy vehicles – like buses and trucks – maintain legal emission limits and comply with environmental standards.
“It works with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems in diesel engines to reduce the levels of nitrogen oxide emissions. It is injected into the SCR tank, where it converts toxic nitrogen oxide into harmless nitrogen and water vapour.”
As AdBlue use is required for fleets to meet diesel engine emission standards, points out Lee, transport operators can face large fines if vehicles to not adhere to the regulations.
“Despite recent developments in lower emission engine technology, it is likely that diesel-powered engines will need AdBlue for the foreseeable future as air quality legislation becomes tighter,” he added.
“Whilst Adblue is non-hazardous, non-flammable and completely safe to store, it is corrosive. It can dissolve certain materials that are not AdBlue-proof and should only be used with Adblue compliant systems.
“AdBlue works by triggering a chemical reaction with ammonia when placed into a vehicle’s SCR system and so should only be used safely. To ensure AdBlue is compliant with quality standards, procure AdBlue from a VDA-licensed partner and check that the product label mentions ISO 22241 compliance.”
Lee adds that it’s critical to keep vehicles, equipment and machinery topped up with AdBlue and have an emergency supply available at all times.
“Not only could running out result in hefty fines, it could also prevent the engine from starting at all,” he said.
“Operating an engine without AdBlue will not cause any mechanical damage, but it could affect performance and result in the vehicle exceeding legal emission limits. Once AdBlue levels are restored, vehicles will automatically revert to optimal performance.”
Lee added: “AdBlue should only be purchased from a trusted and certified AdBlue supplier.
“Certas Energy offers a range of size and delivery options for customers across the UK, including AdBlue cans, barrels, IBCs and bulk deliveries. AdBlue can also be found at sites throughout Certas Energy’s nationwide HGV refuelling network, so customers can access the quantities, pumps and accessories needed to suit their business.”
