The European association of abnormal road transport and mobile cranes (ESTA) has released updated guidance to help its members minimise issues with AdBlue – also known as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF).
AdBlue, a liquid injected into an exhaust system to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, is made up of urea (32.5 percent) and deionised water (67.5 percent) and has a limited shelf life. Apprehension has risen about the effect of AdBlue additives – with some crane rental companies calculating that one third of all on-road breakdowns were linked to AdBlue.
Last year, ESTA flagged the malfunctions, with its research then showing widespread concerns from within the industry as to the use of the additive. The association found public road breakdowns to be the most pressing issue for its members, with a small number of members reporting dangerous interruptions to wind turbine transport and port load-out work.
Comprising members from crane manufacturers and the European Materials Handling Federation (FEM), ESTA’s European Regulations Working Group has produced a technical bulletin to help members reduce the risks which contains 11 recommendations, including guidance on proper storage, engine idling time and only using AdBlue from sealed containers and a trusted source.
Currently available in English, Dutch and German, soon French, Spanish and Italian versions will be available.
Last month, ESTA re-elected its president and released the lifting operation risk management (LORM) best practice guide.
