AGCO Forward Thinking

The world is changing. Business develops. Landscapes evolve. At AGCO, we believe innovative technology helps you keep abreast of the changes. We call it Forward Thinking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SCR engine technology?

SCR stands for Selective Catalytic Reduction. The SCR system uses a simple catalytic reducer in the exhaust system to remove harmful exhaust gases. This elegantly simple engineering solution to world wide Tier compliance standards allows the engineers to concentrate on fuel economy and engine performance.

The SCR system is already used in applications as diverse as power stations and the trucking industry. In fact many of the worlds leading truck engine manufacturers are using SCR systems to provide increased fuel efficiency to there customers. These manufacturers include Mercedes, Volvo and UD and are commonly seen on Australia’s highways. Return to top

Why has AGCO chosen SCR emissions technology?

SCR technology provides greatly improved fuel efficiency; in fact the system has been providing fuel efficiency figures 5% higher than other technologies currently in use. SCR technology meets all current global emissions standards and is capable of meeting future requirements with little additional changes. SCR systems offer the greatest potential for reduced engine operating costs through reduced fuel consumption, potentially increased oil drain intervals and lower engine operating temperatures. Return to top

What benefits does SCR provide for the customer?

The greatest benefit to the end user will be reduced fuel consumption. In general terms fuel consumption for SCR equipped engines is around 5% less than existing emissions technologies. Many operators of SCR equipped vehicles report greatly improved engine performance for both driveability and economy. This improved performance can be directly attributed to improved engine efficiency due to the application of SCR technology.

Other benefits include a reduction in the frequency of engine oil drains due to the SCR technology reducing soot formation during the engines power stroke. This reduction in soot formation reduces the requirement of the engines lubrication oil to remove and store soot in suspension.

SCR engines also run a lot cooler than conventional engines, as the engine rejects less heat into the cooling system, leading to lower temperatures and reduced cooling requirements. Return to top

How does SCR work?

SCR technology uses a product called AUS32 (Aqueous Urea Solution 32.5%), more commonly referred to as AdBlue. AdBlue is a Urea solution which creates a chemical reaction in the catalyst to remove harmful exhaust gases. AdBlue is metered into the exhaust system and mixes with the gases. The urea is released out of solution to form ammonia which is captured in the catalyst. When the exhaust gases enter the catalyst, a chemical reduction process is started which ends in harmless Nitrogen and water vapour being released to the environment. The air we breathe contains approx. 80% Nitrogen.

The AdBlue is stored in a separate reservoir on the tractor. AdBlue is never mixed with Diesel; it only enters into the stream of hot exhaust gases entering the exhaust system. Return to top

Why do SCR engines burn less fuel?

The SCR system allows the engine designer to concentrate on maximum engine efficiency. Unlike other emissions control technologies, SCR can effectively deal with the resulting by-products of combustion in a simple process called catalytic reduction. This process reduces the remaining pollutants in the exhaust gas to Nitrogen and water vapour, both harmless elements. However the high combustion efficiency allowed by the SCR system ensures the energy stored in the fuel is maximised for the owner and operator of vehicles equipped with this technology. Return to top

Can SCR systems use any commercially available Diesel fuel?

SCR equipped engines can be run on any industry approved and commercially available diesel fuel currently available through retail outlets. These fuels include Biodiesel blends B5 and B10. Return to top

Do SCR systems require more maintenance?

The SCR system is self contained and requires very little additional maintenance. In fact in most cases service is restricted to one additional filter change (urea filter) annually, which is carried out during routine engine service. Due to the extremely efficient and clean burning combustion characteristics of an SCR equipped engine, oil service routines are simplified in many cases. The SCR technology ensures soot formation is reduced during the engines operation, thus reducing the need for frequent engine oil drain intervals and additional oil filtration systems.

SCR engines require no specialised engine oils. The recommended grade of oil used in these engines is our MF Premium Engine Oil, which is a 15W40 grade with a classification of API CI-4 and is the current specification for most heavy duty diesel engines. Return to top

Where do I obtain AdBlue?

AdBlue is the registered trade name for AUS32 (Aqueous Urea Solution 32.5%), it is also known as DEF (Diesel Engine Fluid). Currently AdBlue distribution is being developed to cover the rapidly increasing demand from truck fleets and individual owner/operators across Australia and New Zealand. AdBlue is available through many truck stops and truck distributorships. AGCO Parts direct ship program will supply Air 1® Adblue throughout Australia and New Zealand making AdBlue available at your local AGCO dealership in 10 litres, 210 litres and 1000 litre packing solutions. Dealers will also stock an innovative range of pumping equipment specifically designed for use with AdBlue.

How much AdBlue is used during tractor operation?

The AdBlue is accurately metered into the engines exhaust system by the “Dosing” module. This module meters AdBlue according to engine load and averages around 3-4% of Diesel fuel consumed. However exact amounts will vary according to engine load and application. Return to top

What happens if my AdBlue tank runs dry?

If the AdBlue tank runs dry the engine will derate significantly in power to reduce engine emissions, however the engine will not stop. Once the AdBlue tank has been refilled the engine will return to normal power outputs. The AdBlue tank contains enough liquid for approx. two fills of the main Diesel tank; this removes the need to fill the AdBlue tank every day. The contents of the tank are registered on the dashboard in the same way the Diesel tank is monitored. Return to top

Is AdBlue a safe product?

AdBlue is a clear liquid and consists of a 32.5% urea solution mixed with demineralised water; this solution is made to an ISO standard with the AdBlue trademark being registered to the VDA (German Association of the Automobile Industry). This ISO standard ensures AdBlue is consistent in quality and will ensure maximum engine performance in an SCR vehicle. It is a critical part of AdBlue manufacture that the urea is free from imperfections. The urea used in fertiliser is not suitable for use in SCR engines.

Being 67.5% demineralised water AdBlue is safe to handle with a minimum of safety precautions required. AdBlue is not harmful for humans or animals and non-explosive. If contact is made with skin, AdBlue only requires washing with water. AdBlue can go to ground with no harmful affects, In fact AdBlue is completely biodegradable. Return to top

Does AdBlue require any special storage requirements?

AdBlue requires very little in terms of storage requirements. Being based mainly on demineralised water its non-flammable, non-explosive and non-toxic. AdBlue is not considered a Hazardous chemical and requires no notification to relevant authorities for storage purposes. It should however be stored in a cool environment to ensure maximum life. However any spills should be hosed down with clean water immediately. It’s also recommended AdBlue be stored a reasonable distance from flammable materials. Return to top

Some practical Dos and Don’ts

Do:

Don’t:

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