Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)
We provide DEF management solutions.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is essential for modern diesel engines to meet emission standards and operate efficiently.
At Roma Fuels, we offer comprehensive DEF solutions to ensure your vehicles and machinery comply with environmental regulations while running smoothly. Serving the Greater Toronto Area, our family-owned business provides reliable DEF supply, management, and refueling services tailored to your needs.
What is Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)?
DEF is an emissions control fluid required by today’s modern diesel engines. It’s a harmless solution made up of 32.5 % urea in 67.5% de‐ionized water. DEF is clear, and colorless, looks likes water but smells like ammonia. DEF is used by Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR technology) to remove harmful emissions. DEF is contained in a designated DEF tank on the vehicle. Never fill the diesel fuel tank with DEF or try to use it as a fuel additive.
Shelf Life: DEF has a shelf life of 12 months if stored properly. DEF stored beyond this period may still be usable if tested and confirmed to meet specifications.
How Does DEF Work?
DEF operates through the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) process. SCR technology was introduced to meet 2010 emission standards by reducing NOx emissions from diesel engines. When DEF is sprayed into the exhaust stream, it reacts with a catalyst to convert NOx gases into nitrogen and water vapor.
SCR technology has been used for decades in power generation and has been adopted by North American diesel engine manufacturers to meet EPA standards. It enhances engine performance and fuel efficiency while reducing emissions.
Why Choose Roma Fuels for DEF?
Comprehensive DEF Management
Our experienced DEF specialists provide on-site audits, technical evaluations, and tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. We ensure efficient and contamination-free DEF fueling with our certified technicians trained in wheel-to-wheel DEF refueling.
Reliable Supply and Delivery
We offer bulk DEF delivery directly to your site, eliminating the need for transportation and ensuring you have the fluid when you need it.
Expert Support
Our team is dedicated to providing exemplary customer service, leveraging our family-owned business values since 1968 to deliver reliable DEF solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DEF and how should it be used?
DEF is a mixture of high purity urea (32.5%) and water (67.5%). It is used to chemically reduce the concentration of nitrogen oxide (NOx) in the exhaust emissions from diesel engines. DEF is contained in a designated DEF tank on the vehicle. Never fill the diesel fuel tank with DEF or try to use it as a fuel additive.
How much DEF is required?
DEF does not have to be replenished every time the diesel fuel tank is being filled. The required amount is about 3% of the vehicle’s diesel fuel consumption, i.e. For every 100 gallons of diesel fuel consumed, only 3 gallons of DEF is required.
Is DEF harmful?
DEF is non-toxic, stable, odourless and colourless. If it gets on your skin or clothes, rinse with water. If in eyes, flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Although DEF is colourless, avoid spilling on clothing or vehicle upholstery.
What makes DEF API Certified?
Heavy-duty vehicle manufacturers demand a high level of purity for DEF to honour the warranty they give on their vehicles. DEF is a quality fluid that is API certified and meets ISO 22241 to ensure its purity and composition. It is delivered in dedicated, sealed DEF containers for protection from contamination, to help prevent damage to the vehicle’s catalyst.
How should DEF be stored?
DEF should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area at a constant temperature. For optimal shelf life (12 months), store between 86°F/30°C and 12°F/-11°C. It is better to keep DEF indoors, but an outdoor heated enclosure/container is also suitable. Avoid storing in direct sunlight. DEF will freeze at 12°F/-11°C. However, frozen fluid can be thawed and used without concerns of product degradation.
How Often Does DEF Have to Be Refilled?
For typical trucks and SUVs, a tank of DEF needs to be refilled about as often as changing your oil. For semi-trucks, refill is required a lot more frequently due to the mileage on your truck.
How Much DEF Will My Vehicle Consume?
DEF consumption is usually measured in terms of the amount of “dose rate” of diesel your vehicle consumes. Therefore, if you are driving a long distance or use your vehicle often, you will use much more DEF than someone who works locally. Usually, they say that DEF tanks are to be refilled every 4,000 to 10,000 km, but that depends on the size of the vehicle and its use.
Does DEF Freeze During Cold Weather?
DEF freezes at -11 degrees Celsius, which is bound to happen in our Canadian winters! Typically, DEF thaws on its own from the heat of the engine and does not impact the functioning of the vehicle. Upon starting the vehicle, the SCR system provides heat to DEF tank, where it begins to thaw. As with any water-based fluid, DEF expands when it is frozen. Before shutting down the vehicle, wait a minute prior to turning off the battery. This delay will allow the fluid to drain out of the hoses and into the DEF tank.
How Will I Know if I’m Low On DEF?
Similar to when you are low on gas, you’ll know when you are low on DEF. All engines designed with SCR also come equipped with a gauge to display the DEF fuel levels. If you run out of DEF, lights will flash to notify you. Unlike gas, if you run out of DEF, it won’t impact the functioning of your vehicle.
Benefits of Using DEF
Reduced Pollution
The main reason selective catalytic reduction was introduced was to help the environment. Diesel has been known to emit NOx emissions, typically blamed for causing acid rain and the greenhouse effect. With DEF turning the emissions into nitrogen and water, this is much more environmentally friendly.
Reduced Maintenance
Engines designed with SCR technology have less wear and tear on their vehicles than those without, reducing the need for maintenance. Reduced maintenance also means that your vehicle is less likely to break down.
Customized Solutions
Roma Fuels provides DEF storage solutions and larger tank options to suit your specific requirements. Our tailored services ensure that your DEF supply is managed effectively, supporting your operational needs and environmental goals.
We offer DEF in the following formats:
- Jugs (9.4L)
- Drums (202L)
- Bulk (1200L totes)
- Direct to equipment (wheel to wheel)
