Storage Systems for AdBlue™

Whether your AdBlue requirement ranges from just 20 litres a fortnight up to 100000 litres a month, it is imperative that it is stored correctly.

Unlike with fuel storage tanks, there is no need to employ a bunded tank to store AdBlue, although it is good working practice. Read the environment agencies comments here: AdBlue Storage Guidelines

AdBlue has a typical shelf life of 6-12 months, it is rumoured that if stored in perfect condition it could last as long as 18 months. In order for AdBlue to remain in a useable condition certain storage requirements need to be met.

It is important that the temperature of AdBlue does not fall below -11°C simply as the solution will freeze and become redundant until fully thawed. Likewise the storage temperature should not exceed +30°C as the quality of the solution is compromised and shelf life reduced.

AdBlue decomposes over time in storage to form ammonium hydroxide and carbon monoxide, when this stage is reached it will no longer fulfill the requirements of DIN 70070

AdBlue is available in container form by way of cans, drums and IBC’s which should generally be stored indoors. For larger fleet operators bulk consignments can be obtained for delivery to fixed tank installations, these tanks if outdoors will often incorporate climate control to maintain product integrity.

AdBlue Storage Tanks should be made from a suitable material of construction, this could either be a resilient plastic (HDPE for example) or a suitable grade of Stainless Steel. Some tanks can be lined but it is important that the lining/coating is not only suitable but is also checked periodically for deterioration. Regular screening of the AdBlue taken from the storage tank will determine these factors

Considering all these factors and the anticipated growth of SCR vehicles within your fleet, it should be possible to determine the most suitable storage solution.

The table below provides a simple indication to the size of the AdBlue storage solution required based on the total volume of fuel used per week.