of the sensitivity for contamination,DEF requires its own desig- nated containment, which can be stainless steel or polycarbon- ate that has not been previously used for another type of fuel. That’s a big investment, so we have a lot to consider.” The sensitivity of DEF is, in fact, one of the special char-
acteristics those working with the fluid need to consider. “Proper training for operators that will be handling and
delivering DEF is very important to prevent contamination,” Faris said.“Miniscule amounts of trace materials (contamina- tion) can throw an entire tanker load of DEF out of spec and render it useless as Diesel Exhaust Fluid.Ruining a load of DEF can be very costly, but pales in comparison to the cost of replac- ing damaged SCR systems of chassis that use off-spec DEF.” Faris recommended finding a supplier of DEF that is API
certified to ensure the purity of the product you are purchas- ing and visiting www.apidef.org or www.api.org for more info.Another great resource is Oilmen’s website—www.defe- quipment.com—which the company created in response to their customers’ increasing questions about the product. In the meantime, Oilmen’s is planning for the spike in DEF demand.“We are currently building a new fleet fueling truck with a dedicated system for DEF,” said Faris. The com- pany will be introducing the truck at the Midwest Petroleum
and Convenience Tradeshow on March 15-17, 2011 in Indianapolis, Ind. Other companies in the industry are also working on their DEF solutions. Recently, Atlas Oil Co. announced it is now offering DEF via jugs, drums, totes and bulk tank sys- tems. Atlas has signed an agreement with Old World Industries to be the exclusive master distributor of their Blue DEF product and dispensing equipment with open access to marketing in all geographic areas within the Atlas footprint. Additionally, SKS has Blue DEF Diesel Exhaust Fluid and
dispensing equipment available throughout Southern California through distribution centers located in San Diego, Escondido and Anaheim. The DEF demand might be starting off slowly, but it has
the potential to explode in the near future. “More SCR chassis are rolling off dealers’lots every day,”Faris
said. “The average age of U.S. Class 8 fleets is the oldest, going back to 1979,and it won’t be long before repair and maintenance costs exceed the expense of purchasing new equipment. Off- road equipment (tractors, earth-movers, locomotives, etc.) is just around the corner. This industry has huge potential for increasing volumes in a very short period of time. If you are in the fuel business, you need to have a plan.”
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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011 13
