Diesel and DEF storage, and field service, can all be managed out of one trailer that offers added functionality and a lower total cost of ownership than other bulk handling and service options.
Luke Van Wyk
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Tier 4 Final engine regulations have changed how we manage our high-horsepower construction equipment. Diesel quality is more important than ever, and the influx of engines with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology that require diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) has introduced an entirely new fluid with its own storage and handling challenges.
The storage and handling of these fluids鈥攃ombined with the daily service needs of all equipment fleets鈥攑resents challenges in terms of access, efficiency and cost. A combo fuel and service trailer, popular for years in the agricultural market but just now gaining traction in construction applications, helps solve some of these issues and provides equipment owners with a one-stop shop for mobile field service. In this article, we鈥檒l look at some of the advantages offered by these trailers, and the many ways a fuel, DEF and service trailer can be outfitted to meet the demands of equipment owners.
The Advantages of a Fuel and Service Trailer
Every operation handles its fueling and MRO operations differently. Some have a wet hose service that comes and fuels its equipment. Others have on-site bulk fuel storage. With the exception of companies that require a fully loaded mechanics truck with a hydraulic crane, many of these needs can be met in a single fuel and service trailer.
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The Trailer Can Grow with You
A company may only need bulk diesel storage now. The base of these trailers is generally built around a 500-, 750- or 990-gallon design. Depending on the manufacturer, a contractor could start with that very basic bulk diesel trailer and add to it later. You can add significant functionality to the front toolbox of a trailer, and an additional utility box can be added to the back end of a trailer鈥攅ither at time of purchase or field installed later at the customers鈥� discretion. A fuel and service trailer can grow and be customized to meet the demands of its owner.
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Efficient Fuel and DEF Delivery
A pickup truck hauling a fuel and service trailer is more efficient and costs less than owning larger, high-horsepower service and/or fuel trucks. The cost of a fuel and service trailer can also be less than the cost of building containment structures around large bulk tanks. These trailers are often designed to handle off-road travel, and are excellent for bringing fuel and service items to a machine in the field.
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Maintains Diesel and DEF Quality
This is probably the most important. Most equipment owners are familiar with importance of high-quality diesel fuel in today鈥檚 Tier 4 engines, but many are just now getting their first look at heavy equipment that requires DEF. These trailers can be outfitted with 鈥渃losed鈥� DEF storage and pumping systems that help ensure DEF quality. As little as 1/10th of a teaspoon of many common elements is enough to bring an entire 5,000-gallon tank of DEF off-spec, according to the ISO 22241 standard. Contaminated DEF can cause any number of problems with today鈥檚 SCR systems, including:
- Increased DEF consumption in equipment
- Loss of its effectiveness to remove nitrogen oxide (NOx) from engine exhaust
- Malfunctions with the SCR system
- The engine de-rating or shutting down
- Damaged equipment
- Voiding of the manufacturer鈥檚 warranty
A 鈥渃losed鈥� bulk DEF handling solution will help prevent these issues, and eliminate the need to refill DEF with non-compliant containers or with 1 to 2 gallon jugs poured into a funnel that can transmit contaminants into the DEF tank.
Outfitting Trailers for Success
As mentioned, a fuel and service trailer can be outfitted with any number of features to further expand fieldwork and to place all regular maintenance and service items into one central location. Here are a few customizations/options that can help expand the functionality of these trailers.
- Front Toolbox Customization: The front toolbox of a fuel and service trailer offers any number of options for the owner. Even with the recommended 100-gallon DEF tank and pumping system, there is still considerable room to add storage and functionality. A toolbox could be added here, or tanks for additional fluids, such as hydraulic fluid and engine oil.
- Rear Utility Box: The addition of a utility box on the back end of the trailer provides similar flexibility. One of the most common customizations we see to this space is the addition of a welder/generator/air compressor with built-in workbench. This fully optimizes the trailer with a power source for power tools, an air compressor to blow out filters and power pneumatic tools, and a welder for making quick repairs out in the field. This also provides excellent storage area for other service items, such as grease guns and cleaning supplies.
- Light Tower: Service is best performed off hours, and breakdowns sometime require work well into the night. A solar-powered LED light tower that sits on the top of the trailer and is raised with the simple push of a button can provide excellent light for nighttime fueling runs, site work or other repairs.
- Solar Panels: Power work lights and the trailer battery with the power of the Sun.
- Toolbox: Whether in the front or rear utility box, a dedicated toolbox helps keep hand tools organized in a dedicated space, instead of thrown in the back of pickup and service trucks.
- Faster Fueling Pumps: Some standard diesel pumps operate at 25 gallons per minute (GPM). Outfitting a trailer with a faster 40-gpm pump can make refueling activities significantly faster.
- Specialized Off-road Tires: Very few construction applications take place on a nicely paved service. Specialized tires for off-road travel can help provide a smoother ride and longer tire life for your fuel and service trailer.
All of these considerations can help contractors customize the ideal fuel and service trailer for their own needs, and potentially replace more costly storage and service solutions they are already using. Is it time for you to rethink your bulk fluid storage and delivery solutions?
Luke Van Wyk is General Manager for Thunder Creek Equipment (Pella, IA), a company focused on providing innovative solutions for servicing off-road machinery. Thunder Creek has been partnering with engine and equipment manufacturers since 2010 to understand SCR technology and the purity standards of Diesel Exhaust Fluid required by ISO22241 and the engine manufacturers, which can create a challenge for fleet managers and operators, especially in off- highway applications. Over the years, Luke has worked with thousands of operators to prevent equipment delays and other issues associated with DEF contamination. For more information, visit www.thundercreek.com.