AdBlue is a solution used in selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems in diesel engines to reduce the emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Understanding AdBlue: How Does It Work in Diesel Engines?
Introduction: Modern diesel engines have made great strides in terms of power, fuel efficiency, and longevity. However, one aspect that still needs to be addressed is their impact on the environment. To combat this, manufacturers have developed a system called selective catalytic reduction (SCR), which effectively reduces harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. At the heart of this system lies AdBlue, a solution that plays a crucial role in minimizing diesel vehicle pollution. Let's delve deeper into the inner workings of AdBlue and understand how it helps to combat NOx emissions.
What is AdBlue? AdBlue is a liquid solution made up mostly of urea and deionized water. It is non-toxic and colourless, with a slight smell of ammonia. The name "AdBlue" is actually a registered trademark of the German Association of the Automotive Industry, but it is commonly used as a generic term for these types of solutions worldwide.
How does AdBlue work? In a SCR system, AdBlue is injected into the exhaust gases after they exit the combustion chamber. The solution then comes into contact with a catalyst, typically made of a material called titanium dioxide. Inside the catalyst, a series of chemical reactions take place that convert the harmful nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.
The key chemical reaction responsible for this conversion is known as selective catalytic reduction. AdBlue contains urea, a nitrogen-rich compound that acts as a reducing agent. When urea is injected into the hot exhaust gases, it decomposes into ammonia (NH3) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Ammonia is the crucial component, as it reacts with the nitrogen oxides in the presence of the catalyst to form nitrogen and water.
Why is AdBlue necessary? Strict 1st world emission regulations require diesel vehicles to meet stringent NOx emission standards. AdBlue is necessary because it helps diesel engines comply with these regulations. By using AdBlue and an SCR system, the NOx emissions can be significantly reduced to levels acceptable for the environment and human health. This makes diesel engines cleaner and more eco-friendly.
AdBlue Usage and Refilling: Vehicles equipped with SCR systems have a separate AdBlue tank, usually located near the diesel tank. The solution is injected into the exhaust system through a dosing injector, precisely controlled by the engine's electronic control unit. The rate of AdBlue consumption depends on various factors such as engine load, speed, and temperature.
When the AdBlue level gets low, the vehicle's dashboard will display a warning message, indicating the need for a refill. Refilling AdBlue is a simple process, often done at service stations or using refill kits that come with the vehicle. It is important to use high-quality AdBlue to prevent any malfunctions in the SCR system.
Conclusion: AdBlue, with its urea-based solution, plays a crucial role in reducing NOx emissions generated by diesel engines. The selective catalytic reduction system, coupled with AdBlue injection, helps convert harmful nitrogen oxides into harmless components. By using AdBlue, diesel vehicles can meet stringent emission standards, making them cleaner and more environmentally friendly. So, the next time you see a diesel vehicle fitted with an SCR system, you'll know that AdBlue is doing its part in minimizing its impact on the environment.
The good and the bad: The above is the how and the good of AdBlue. The bad is the cost of these components in a country like South Africa. In example, the price of one NOx sensor can be as much as R15,000.00 and with other AdBlue components that can run into the hundreds of thousands of Rands.
The choice: If you do have the money, replace the components and you will do your tiny bit for the environment. If you do not have the hundreds of thousands of rands that it sometimes requires to replace these components, we have a solution where we re-engineer the software on the vehicle’s ECU to disable the AdBlue function or also known as AdBlue Delete or Adblue Removal. After the modification, all AdBlue related warnings, functions and fault codes are disabled and no AdBlue fluid is required anymore.
P140300 The control unit ''AdBlue(R)'' has a malfunction.
P13E400 The remaining driving distance is limited due to a malfunction in the AdBlue(R) system._
P204F96 The AdBlue(R) system (cylinder bank 1) has a malfunction.There is an internal component fault.
P13F600 The engine cannot be started because the exhaust aftertreatment system has been tampered with.
P13DF09 The AdBlue(R) system has a malfunction.There is a component fault.
Symptoms:
Limp Mode / Safe Mode (Low Power)
Warning Lights:
Check Engine Light - On Msg: Eng. start not possible in ___ km
Solution:
AdBlue ECU Disconnected and Software Re-Engineered to exclude AdBlue function from the Engine Control Unit (ECU). No more warning lights and original power restored.
By Veloce Performance
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