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f. DPF Cleaning and Maintenance |
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The principal maintenance item for DPFs is the periodic cleaning of the filter. Also periodic visual inspection of the: 1) DPF assembly hardware to insure the DPF is still firmly connected, 2) outer shell of the DPF for physical damage, and 3) exhaust system for leaks. |
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Under normal operating conditions, the filter collects the PM and periodically oxidizes the carbon-based PM. Inorganic material, such as phosphorus, sulfur, calcium, and zinc, derived from the lubricating oil, the sulfur in the fuel, and residue from engine wear will also be collected on the filter. These materials can form oxides and sulfate materials that remain on the filter and will eventually cause a pressure drop across the filter creating an increase in engine backpressure. To avoid backpressure increases above the engine manufacturer’s specification or to reduce backpressure build-up when it occurs, the filter must be cleaned periodically. |
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Filter cleaning should be performed in accordance with the technology manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule or when the backpressure monitor/alarm indicates engine backpressure levels approaching or exceeding the engine manufacturer’s specifications. Recommended cleaning intervals vary widely based on such factors as engine age, engine lubricating oil consumption, vehicle/equipment application, and engine operating cycles. Recommended intervals are typically stated in terms of number of days/mile or hours of operation, whichever occurs first. In most applications, cleaning at least annually is recommended. |
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Several different types of filter cleaning methods can be employed. After removal from the vehicle/equipment, one popular method to clean the filter is using a combination of a pressurized air gun on one end to clean the filter and an industrial vacuum device at the other end to collect the ash (e.g. www.enviblast.com). Similarly, and generally the first choice when cleaning highly clogged filters is heating/baking by placing the filter in an industrial oven (www.envibake.com) or by using a stand-alone cleaning unit that includes a heating element to burn-off any organic soot remaining on the filter. Fleet personnel can be trained to operate these cleaning devices. In addition, a growing number of organizations including the engine/vehicle OE dealers and distributors are offering cleaning services to fleets. The filter cleaning services include a number of service options including on-site cleaning and reinstallation of the filter at the customer’s facility. |
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Note: GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc. light duty vehicles that are fitted with welded construction DPF’s must be cut out of the system for servicing. In these instances DET offers our patented Modu-Link™ Adaptor. The adaptor rings are welded to both the inlet and outlet of the removed DPF brick module, and accommodate every modular inlet/outlet and coupling component in our line. |
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