What Is A DPF? A Diesel Particulate Filter is a device that traps the soot in the exhaust stream by physical filtration. This process is an established, efficient and effective way of removing soot from the exhaust. Once captured, the accumulated soot must then be dealt with in a safe and secure manner, as it is harmful to health. All types of filters have a finite capacity. DPFs are no different and must be cleared of the accumulated soot, either at regular intervals, or during operation. Failure to do so will eventually cause the filter to block. This can damage or destroy the filter and may also damage the engine due to increased backpressure. Manufactured from silicon carbide, a DPF usually cleans itself, or regenerates, when the engine runs at high speeds i.e. when the exhaust temperature is high. The filter is made from silicon carbide and is constructed as a honeycomb structure, channels are blocked at alternate ends (figure i) forcing the exhaust gasses to flow through the walls between the channels, known as ‘wall-flow’. The particulate matter cannot pass through the walls and is deposited within the channels. If the majority of journeys are city based, short or stop/start, or a combination of them all, then the filter will not be able to regenerate, the honeycomb will block with soot and a DPF warning light will illuminate on the dash board, in some cases the car may enter Limp Mode to protect both the DPF and the engine from damage. Regular filter cleaning will help: Reduce engine emissions Extend the life of the Diesel Particulate Filter Keep vehicle running costs down Improve overall fuel economy Maintain an efficient engine
Posted on: Fri, 12 Jul 2013 07:33:18 +0000
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015