The European body for abnormal transportation (ESTA) is flagging potential issues with the use of AdBlue in mobile cranes and SPMTs.
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Announced via the association’s website on June 14, ESTA is urging its members to send in information about problems with the use of AdBlue in machines. According to ESTA, crane rental companies are reporting growing issues with the use of AdBlue, with some saying almost one third of all on-road breakdowns appear to be AdBlue related.
Reports submitted to ESTA suggest that similar problems can face SPMT operators, a particular concern during load outs.
“As a first step, we are gathering information,” said ESTA Director, Ton Klijn, “and we will then consult with the members of the European Regulations Workgroup and decide on the next steps.”
AdBlue is a mixture of water and urea used in diesel engines to minimise the production of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. It reacts with NOx in the catalytic converter, breaking it down into nitrogen and water vapour in a process known as Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR).
According to ESTA, a key concern is that if the AdBlue system malfunctions – perhaps because the engine is too cold – then the crane’s engine can lose power or even shut down, with potentially dangerous consequences.
According to Liebherr’s website, AdBlue failure is derived from contamination of the urea solution caused by instances such as improper storage or handling that leads to a disruption or contamination of the SCR system – a system it describes as “very vulnerable”. Liebherr says the contamination can result in non-compliance with anti-pollution standards, impaired operation of machines, and even complete failure.