AdBlue is an additive used in diesel engines. It helps reduce nitrogen oxide emissions produced by this type of engine. When the level is too low, a warning light turns on. A warning indicator appears on the dashboard to inform the driver. How can AdBlue be used effectively?
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About the Euro 6 standard
The Euro 6 standard is an anti-pollution regulation that came into effect on September 1, 2014, for new vehicles introduced to the market from that date.
Its objective is to significantly reduce pollutant emissions from the exhaust of gasoline and diesel combustion engines. This standard sets limits on the following types of pollutants :
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Unburned hydrocarbons (HC)
- Particulates (PM)
- Nitrogen oxides (Nox)
What is the purpose of adBlue ?
AdBlue aims to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions to minimize vehicle pollution.
The AdBlue fluid is a solution designed for diesel engines equipped with an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system.
Initially, AdBlue was implemented in trucks. This fluid helps reduce nitrogen oxides produced by this type of engine.
AdBlue consists of a mixture of demineralized water (67.5%) and urea (32.5%).
What types of vehicles use adBlue ?
Initially used in heavy trucks, AdBlue fluid has been increasingly adopted in passenger cars and light commercial vehicles equipped with diesel engines since the introduction of the Euro 6 standard.
Currently, there are two main systems to reduce NOx emissions :
- NOx traps
- Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR)
Only cars equipped with an SCR system use AdBlue.
How does adBlue work ?
How Does AdBlue Fluid Function ?
AdBlue requires an SCR system to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. To understand its function, it's essential to know the components of the system :
- A catalyst
- An Adblue tank
- An Adblue injector
- A dosage control unit
At temperatures above 190°C, AdBlue is injected just before the SCR catalyst. Within the catalyst, a chemical reaction transforms the ammonia molecules (NH3) contained in the urea to oxidize NOx emissions from the engine, producing nitrogen (N2) and water vapor (H2O).
These two compounds, N2 and H2O, are naturally present in the air and are therefore harmless.
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Where is the adBlue tank located ?
The AdBlue tank is easily recognizable as its cap is blue.
In some models, it is located right next to the fuel tank. In such cases, care must be taken not to mix the two, as this could require draining both tanks.
What happens if you run out of adBlue ?
It is possible to run out of AdBlue fluid. This would result in increased NOx emissions. The engine control unit will trigger a warning light on the dashboard.The vehicle may experience a power loss and enter limp mode. In some models, the vehicle will simply refuse to start. The AdBlue warning light on the dashboard should not be ignored.
Adblue information
Consumption :
Depending on the brand, a diesel vehicle consumes between 1 and 3 liters of fluid per 1,000 km (0.1 to 0.3 liters per 100 km). However, this figure varies based on driving style and the type of journey. The range also varies from vehicle to vehicle, typically between 8 and 25 liters.
Where can you buy adBlue ?
You can find AdBlue at your dealership and automotive centers. More and more service stations also offer it. If you want to store multiple liters, be sure to follow the storage guidelines indicated on the containers.
Tips for using this product :
First, it is recommended to keep it in its original packaging. AdBlue is a corrosive liquid, and if spilled, it could damage the floor surface.
Store the fluid away from sunlight and frost. Avoid storing AdBlue for too long (more than 18 months), as it can degrade over time due to light and heat exposure.
Price
The price of AdBlue is relatively low. Online, a 5L can costs around 10 euros. The price may vary depending on the quantity purchased and the accessories included with the can (gloves, flexible spout for easier refilling, etc.).
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