As our diesel engines become increasingly environmentally friendly, AdBlue has become a given for many. Especially for those with a vehicle fleet—whether it’s trucks, buses, or other diesel-powered vehicles with SCR technology (Selective Catalytic Reduction)—having your own AdBlue tank on-site can be a truly smart and cost-effective solution. Let’s take a closer look at why this could be a winning concept for your company, both for your budget and smoother operations.
What exactly is AdBlue and why is it so important?
In short, AdBlue is a fluid used by diesel engines to clean their exhaust gases. It consists of a mixture of urea and demineralized water. When AdBlue is sprayed into the exhaust flow, harmful nitrogen oxides are converted into harmless nitrogen and water vapor. This is crucial for modern diesel engines to meet today’s strict emission standards—such as the latest Euro 6 standards in effect within the EU and thus also in Sweden. Without AdBlue, the SCR system does not function properly, and the vehicle risks stopping or entering a restricted mode.
The benefits of having AdBlue close at hand
Having your own AdBlue tank at the company is not just a convenience; it provides real and tangible benefits:
- Economic benefits:
Perhaps the most obvious gain is the ability to buy AdBlue in bulk. Filling a large on-site tank is almost always cheaper per liter compared to buying smaller canisters or refueling at public stations. Additionally, you avoid recurring shipping costs and expensive small deliveries. Over time, especially for a company with many vehicles, this becomes a significant saving. You might even consider using AdBlue tanks from MPP to access flexible solutions.
- Maximum availability and flexibility:
Imagine not having to worry about running out of AdBlue in the middle of an important delivery or when it’s time for the morning route. With your own tank, you always have access to AdBlue when you need it. You can refuel your vehicles at your own pace, adjust the intervals based on your business’s needs, and avoid waiting for deliveries or searching for fueling stations. This streamlines daily operations and reduces unnecessary downtime for your staff.
- Better control and increased operational reliability:
A private tank gives you full oversight of your AdBlue consumption and stock levels. You can easily plan purchases, optimize inventory, and minimize the risk of the tank running dry—which could otherwise lead to unplanned stops and costly delays. It also offers some protection against sudden price fluctuations, as you can refill when prices are favorable.
Choosing the right AdBlue system for your business
Finding the right tank solution is about matching the system to your business’s unique needs. Consider the following:
- How large is your vehicle fleet?
A small haulage company naturally has different needs than a large logistics firm. A careful estimate of your total AdBlue consumption will help you size the tank correctly.
- What does your consumption pattern look like?
Do you have consistently high usage, or does it vary significantly? This also affects the choice of tank size and how often you need to refill.
- What space do you have available?
AdBlue tanks come in various sizes and designs, from stationary facilities for larger depots to more flexible mobile solutions. Make sure there’s enough space and that the tank can be placed safely and accessibly. For examples of different systems, see mobile fuel tanks and diesel cisterns.
- What type of system suits best?
There are classic stationary tanks, but also mobile solutions for flexibility, and in some cases cloud-based systems that allow you to monitor consumption remotely. Explore more solutions under tank stations.
Installation and maintenance – for long service life
Once you’ve chosen a system, the next step is installation. It’s important that this is carried out by qualified technicians to ensure everything functions correctly and meets current safety requirements. In Sweden, there are specific regulations from, among others, the MSB (Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency) and the Swedish Work Environment Authority that govern the handling and storage of chemicals like AdBlue, which is important to be aware of.
To ensure your AdBlue tank works smoothly, regular maintenance is also required. Make sure the tank is clean and free from contamination. Since AdBlue is sensitive to temperature fluctuations (it freezes at about -11°C and can degrade at high temperatures), proper placement and possibly heating during the Swedish winter are important to avoid problems with crystal formation. Also check that no expired batches are used, even though AdBlue has a relatively long shelf life if stored correctly.
Conclusion
Having your own AdBlue tank is more than just a convenience—it’s a strategic investment that can bring significant benefits to your company, both economically and operationally. By taking control of the purchase, storage, and consumption of AdBlue, you can improve cost control, ensure availability, and increase the operational reliability of your vehicle fleet. For companies with diesel vehicles, it’s simply a smart way to optimize both environmental performance and operational efficiency in the long term. Take a look at our products and solutions on MPP’s website.
