Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is a challenging substance to work with since it is highly corrosive and not compatible with most common materials. Therefore, highly specialized equipment is necessary to properly store and transfer DEF to ensure equipment longevity and avoid contaminating the fluid, which leads to equipment downtime.
Innovative Products of America Inc. (IPA) provided tips for working with DEF:
- Purchase DEF from trusted sources and use quality DEF transfer equipment to avoid contamination.
- DEF is best stored in closed systems at 75ÂşF. Most warehouse or shop spaces are suitable for DEF storage. It should be kept in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight.
- Temperature is important: DEF will freeze below 12°F, and above 77°F. Which means the shelf-life of DEF can be shortened.
- DEF is urea-based and highly corrosive. Here is a list the of materials that DEF not harm: stainless steel and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), both rated for use with DEF.