Whether you want to become a diesel vehicle technician or own a diesel-powered car, it is crucial to understand the purpose and working op DPF. In diesel cars, Diesel Particulate Filter DPF plays an important role. And failing to maintain this system can lead to significant consequences. In this article, you will learn about DPF and the ways to clean it.
What is a Diesel Particulate Filter?
Diesel particulate filter DPF is a device installed near the exhaust system for trapping and storing the particles produced as a result of the burning of fuel. These particles could be ash, soot and unburnt fuel, which can expel into the air causing damage to the environment. The purpose of the DPF is to catch these particles and burn them to make the exhaust gas clean and less harmful to the environment. DPF device is mainly a honeycomb structure made of ceramic, which captures the soot which must be burnt off to regenerate the filter. Many cars like Seat Ibiza FR 1.2 TSI exhaust system have DPF installed, which plays an important role in keeping the environment clean.
How to Clean a DPF filter?
When it comes to maintaining the DPF, it is important to pay enough attention to its cleaning. Regeneration is the process of burning off deposited soot inside the filter, so you need to make sure your DPF can regenerate itself when it is filled with soot. Proper cleaning prevents the DPF from getting blocked, so keep an eye on the warning light. Here are the ways used for cleaning DPF.
Passive regeneration
Active regeneration
Chemical cleaning
Passive Regeneration
During combustion, the exhaust gases, before passing through the DPF, pass over the oxidation catalyst DOC. Passive regeneration occurs when soot or build up carbon is combined with oxygen creating carbon dioxide. This process happens when the heat in the engine increases enough. The carbon dioxide then passes through the DPF filter. This process of regeneration occurs as the driver drives the vehicle without being aware of what is happening. Since this process does not keep the DPF clean over the course, the filter must have to undergo active regeneration.
Active Regeneration
While passive regeneration is part of a normal routine, active regeneration requires the engine to take proper action. For DPF cleaning, the engine doesn’t require creating heat. It may occur when the vehicle is not loaded, and once the soot level reaches a certain point, the engine injects the fuel into the exhaust system. The fuel creates heat after going through the oxidation catalyst. This process can occur automatically and is unknown to the driver. However, it is necessary to keep in mind both engine and vehicle speed and keep the speed around 2500 rpm. Active regeneration typically requires you to drive for 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the model of your car. Also, make sure you have enough fuel as active regeneration needs fuel to work.
Chemical Cleaning
For chemical cleaning, you need to buy a DPF cleaning additive to break down the soot and carbon clogging the filter. They contain fuel borne catalysts to eliminate soot. Use these chemicals every 3 to 6 months for keeping your DPF maintained. Pour the additive into the tank and drive the vehicle for 15 to 30 minutes.
Conclusion
DPF is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. Therefore, it is important to keep it clean and maintained. Now you know the cleaning methods, make sure to pay attention to your DPF and get it cleaned every 3 to 4 months.
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