If you’re among those who operate diesel-powered vehicles, being familiar with the aftertreatment parts may be crucial in understanding how it works optimally. Knowing what the parts and system do as a whole and how they contribute to the overall performance of diesel-powered engines is something to consider, especially when your business involves managing a fleet of vehicles. Additionally, the maintenance of the aftertreatment system is important to ensure the peak performance of a diesel-powered vehicle.
Nowadays, there’s an increase in the availability of exhaust and aftertreatment systems, primarily to ensure your vehicles with diesel engines comply with the emission standards. Most are structured as merged systems that work hand in hand with the engine to deliver optimum fuel economy and overall performance.
The diesel particulate filter (DPF), diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) are the three basic aftertreatment components. These aim to remove soot and particulate matter, nitrous oxide, and hydrocarbons. It’s best to check out more parts from a reliable source to ensure a head start.
If you want to know more about aftertreatment parts and what they can do for diesel-powered engines, here are the essentials you need to know.
- The Aftertreatment System
Aftertreatment systems are one of the policies implemented due to the growing environmental concerns about vehicle emissions.
The aftertreatment systems typically clean the engine exhaust before it exits the vehicle. In simple terms, it’s all about scrubbing the emissions from the exhaust gases a diesel-powered engine produces. Even though every truck has an exhaust, it should undergo cleaning before leaving the vehicle.
- Function Of The Aftertreatment Parts
The parts comprising the aftertreatment system are responsible for cleaning up particles and exhaust gases, leaving minimal impact on a vehicle’s overall performance and the environment. As the exhaust flows through the system, every phase purifies or cleans it. However, keep in mind that toxins are left behind at every stage.
- Components Of An Aftertreatment System
The aftertreatment system that aims to reduce greenhouse emissions in engines comprises several parts. Here are the essential components of an aftertreatment system.
- Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC). The engine’s exhaust initially moves through the DOC. From there, the exhaust undergoes oxidation to regulate the amount of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions.
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The exhaust moves on to the DPF, which is responsible for eliminating larger forms of particulate matter. Generally, the DPF is highly efficient since it can remove up to 99% of particulates. It’s one reason the DPF often ends up with a dense layer of soot over time. Sadly, the buildup of soot can be an issue of concern. As the layer thickens, it generates back pressure and limits forward flow. The back pressure may continue to build until you initiate a regeneration to remove the soot.
- Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Injection. The DEF injection comes next. Generally, it’s a solution comprising water and urea. It injects into the exhaust flow to initiate the transformation of nitrous oxide (NOx). It undergoes decomposition with the scalding exhaust to form water, ammonia, and carbon dioxide. As the urea decomposes, it combines with the exhaust and moves on to the next stage.
- Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). The next stage involves the elimination of most of the leftover NOx. It involves the reaction of the decomposed urea and exhaust gas with the active chemicals present in the SCR. Water vapor and carbon dioxide are produced and released through the tailpipe.
As you can see, all these aftertreatment components play an essential role in cleaning exhaust gases.
- Importance Of Routine Maintenance
The aftertreatment parts play an essential role in the overall functionality of diesel-powered vehicles. Unfortunately, the system’s maintenance is often overlooked, usually due to a need for a better familiarity with how it works. Similar to the routine maintenance of a new car, keeping your fleet in top shape should be a priority.
The primary parts in an aftertreatment system, such as the DPF and DEF, require regular maintenance to ensure that it’s running smoothly. The maintenance program should ensure the timely servicing of these components. If you’re managing a fleet of vehicles with diesel-powered engines, the drivers should also undergo comprehensive training on how the aftertreatment system operates.
It’s also important to carefully follow the factory-recommended guidelines when scheduling routine inspections and maintenance of the aftertreatment system. Likewise, prioritize inspecting loose clamps, exhaust leaks, and external damage. The importance of thoroughly cleaning the DPF and inspecting the hydrocarbon injector and DEF pump cannot be overstated during routine maintenance.
- Considerations When Purchasing Aftertreatment Parts
When investing in aftertreatment parts, there are three main considerations: cost, availability, and reliability. If you’re planning to upgrade your fleet of large trucks, it’s crucial to look for a provider capable of delivering the parts as soon as possible.
Aside from the price and availability, the overall quality of the aftertreatment parts is crucial. The components capable of providing your fleet with an affordable cost per mile are the key to gaining the most benefit in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining fuel efficiency and the overall performance of vehicles with diesel engines requires an aftertreatment system. Above all, it’s ensuring a significant drop in emissions. Knowing everything about the aftertreatment system and how to provide proper maintenance will go a long way toward complying with the standards and keeping your fleet in good shape for years to come.