On-the-road supply methods.
Canisters
Canisters are available from over 5000 service stations, supply depots and manufacturer dealerships around Europe. This supply type is typically used in an emergency situation and due to the small size there is a cost premium. Available sizes include 5L, 10L and 18L.
Pump
Retail pumps supply AdBlue®, by the litre, at a growing number of locations throughout Europe. Indeed, following a period of investment by the oil industry, some truck stops have installed AdBlue® pumps on all diesel islands and it is now possible to refill with AdBlue® while refuelling with diesel.
In india the implementation of BS VI norms standard are expected to enforced from April 2020. Although the OEMS & vehicle manufactures have already started including SCR systems with AdBlue® in the automotive productions to meet the BS VI norm regulatory requirements. Presently the AdBlue ® products are distributed through distributors on retail outlets and petrol bunk outlets in Drums & buckets. After full implementation, we shall expect the product to be available on dispensing services pumps at petrol bunks & retails outlets.
Home-Depot Supply Methods.
IBC
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are a standardised method of storing and transporting liquids used in the chemical industry. IBCs hold 1000L of AdBlue® and are competitively priced in comparison to on-the-road supply methods. Also, IBCs do not require permanent installation, and are currently one of the most popular options for the haulage industry.
Mini-bulk
A mini-bulk system is a fixed installation at a haulier's home depot. Typically mini bulk systems have a capacity between 4000-7000L and require regular refilling by an AdBlue® producer. Due to the quantity of AdBlue® purchased, cost/litre is low compared to other methods. However, the equipment is expensive and requires installation and maintenance.
Storage and handling.
It is essential that the purity of AdBlue® is ensured throughout the supply chain and when stored at a home depot. Therefore, it is critical that AdBlue® is transported and stored in a manner that conforms to the CEFIC guidelines. When stored at a home depot, it is important that the AdBlue® is not decanted from IBCs or bulk containers into smaller canisters as SCR catalysts are sensitive to many contaminants - especially mineral ions - and can suffer irreversible damage. If the damage has resulted from mishandling of AdBlue®, the vehicle's warranty is likely to be found invalid.
To some extent AdBlue® is sensitive to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. The solution will freeze if its temperature falls below -11°C, and the urea content can decrease if stored at temperatures in excess of 30°C. However, AdBlue® is not harmed by the freezing process and once thawed will retain its concentration and quality. In areas where the temperature is frequently in excess of 30°C (Greece, Spain etc.) it is necessary to ensure that the solution is not stored in direct sunlight.
The trucks themselves, and larger equipment installations, are built with several heated components to minimize the problem of frozen AdBlue®.
