Answering your DPF questions
If you own a diesel-powered fleet or vehicle, chances are you’ll either have a diesel particulate filter (DPF) or AdBlue system as a form of emission control. DPF systems are common in diesel engines, but often, they come with a unique set of issues and requirements many are unfamiliar with. So, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about DPF systems to help you maintain a healthy fleet.
How does DPF regeneration work?
Understanding this question means knowing how DPF systems work. The DPF is there to reduce the amount of harmful particulates, such as soot, in diesel emissions by around 80%. However, this technology has been hugely controversial as many face huge repair bills when the prone-to-breakdown DPF systems fail.
In theory, the DPF collects the particulates in the filter to burn them at a later time, leaving only a small amount of ash residue in place. This regeneration process can be passive or active. Passive regeneration means regeneration occurs automatically, for example, if you drive your car at high speeds or use the engine more intensely for extended periods of time.
Some diesel engines don’t work like this. Larger, heavy machinery used in agriculture and construction operate more periodically. Here, active regeneration comes into play. This happens when the filter reaches a specified limit, such as 45% capacity. The system will then begin to raise the exhaust system temperature to force the regeneration process.
How do DPF blockages occur?
DPF systems are known to be problematic because the active regeneration process is time-consuming. If the fleet stops during the regeneration process, the cycle fails, causing blockages in the filter. Using the wrong engine oil and driving without enough fuel can also cause blockages. When blockages happen, they can be hugely expensive to repair, ranging from £100 to remove excess soot to over £1,000 to replace.
How can you tell if your DPF is clogged?
A loss of power in your fleet is a sign it has entered limp mode resulting from a DPF blockage. You may also look for:
- The DPF warning light illuminated on the dashboard
- Failed regenerations
- A strong smell of diesel
- Failing automatic stop-start systems
- The exhaust releasing excessive amounts of smoke
- Increase in oil levels
- Increased fuel consumption
These are all signs you might need to repair your DPF system.
Repairs can be costly, especially when you need them frequently due to faulty DPF technology. Instead of dealing with the blockages, breakdowns, and disruptions to your business and activities that arise as a result, aim to prevent blockages or omit the need for DPF entirely.
At DPF Doctor, that’s exactly what we do. We help people avoid the costly implications of DPF technology to ensure your business and livelihood can prosper. Our kits remove the need for DPF and AdBlue systems, meaning you won’t need to shell out on repairs again. We install reliability in your engines. To find out more, or place an order, get in touch today.
