How the Diesel Particulate Filter Works

Without delving too deeply into theory, a DPF is a device integrated into a vehicle’s exhaust system. It contains ceramic or metallic cells that trap harmful substances in exhaust gases, primarily soot, preventing them from entering the atmosphere. As the name implies, the Diesel Particulate Filter is mainly used in diesel vehicles, where incomplete carbon combustion leads to soot formation.
When the soot reaches a critical accumulation level, as determined by sensors, the Engine Control Unit (ECU) initiates DPF regeneration — burning off the soot at high temperatures or using a catalyst. While this works well in theory, regeneration requires favorable conditions, typically sustained high-speed driving.
At first glance, long-haul trucks should handle this well due to their highway travel. However, real-life conditions often differ. Modern fleet operations frequently occur in conditions unfavorable for DPF cleaning systems, such as traffic jams, including those at borders. According to eCherga, Ukrainian drivers at border crossings with Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia spend 20 hours to 5.5 days in line. During this time, truck engines often idle — the worst condition for soot formation.

Solutions for a Clogged Diesel Particulate Filter

When a filter becomes clogged, there are three main solutions:● Removal● Replacement● Cleaning
For trucks traveling abroad, removing the DPF and reprogramming the ECU to Euro-2 standards is not an option due to the risk of significant fines. Replacing a DPF is also costly, as new filters for large engines cost several thousand dollars. Cheaper options, such as counterfeit filters or recycled cartridges, are unreliable. Alternatively, cleaning the DPF using specialized DPF filter cleaning equipment is a cost-effective solution that can be performed independently.

How to Clean a Truck Diesel Particulate Filter

Fleet managers face three main cleaning options:1. Chemical cleaning2. Using third-party services3. Purchasing a DPF cleaning machine
Chemical cleaning involves filling the filter with a solution that dissolves soot. However, it’s not very effective (chemicals struggle to clean all filter areas), lacks transparency (it's unclear how much waste is removed), is environmentally harmful, and involves lengthy processing times (10–12 hours or more).Sending the filter to a specialized service is relatively inexpensive (6,000–7,000 UAH for trucks). However, this can be costly for large fleets and requires adapting to the service center’s schedule, leading to downtime and lost revenue.The most advantageous option is purchasing an in-house DPF cleaning system. Below are its benefits.

Advantages of the MS 900 DPF Cleaning Machine for Fleets

MSG has developed specialized DPF cleaning equipment for diagnosing, cleaning, and drying DPFs for all vehicle types (cars, trucks) and catalytic converters. The MS 900 uses a hydro-pneumatic method, employing water and compressed air pulses. Active chemicals are only used for filters contaminated with oil, and even then, outside the stand. The MS 900 is designed for repeated use in service stations, fleet facilities, and large automotive depots.
Benefits of the MS 900 DPF Cleaning System:
1. Compact Size: The equipment requires a space of only 3.4 × 2.4 meters and a ceiling height of 2.5 meters.2. No Need for Expensive Cleaning Agents: The stand only needs electricity, water, drainage, and compressed air, all of which are typically available at most automotive facilities.3. Quick Cleaning Process: The complete cleaning cycle, including diagnostics and drying, takes 2–3 hours.4. Easy Installation: The stand comes with accessories for easy installation and relocation.5. User-Friendly Operation: Equipped with a touchscreen control panel and intuitive menu, the MS 900 is easy to operate. MSG provides initial training, enabling your staff to use the DPF filter cleaning machine independently. A single operator is sufficient for its operation.6. Cost-Effectiveness: The stand recycles the water used in the cleaning process through a three-stage filtration system. Its maximum power consumption is just 12 kW.
How the Process Works and Its Benefits
The process is straightforward. First, the filter is removed, which may require cutting the exhaust system in some cases. However, many truck manufacturers now produce DPFs as easily removable cartridge filters. Removing these involves detaching the filter housing and unscrewing its lid.
Once removed, the filter can be immediately placed into the DPF cleaner machine for diagnostics and cleaning, ensuring high-quality results and reducing errors. The restored filter can then be reinstalled, enabling the vehicle to resume operation with minimal downtime.
Using the MS 900, a fleet can recover its investment after cleaning 100 truck filters. Beyond this point, the equipment generates profit. Providing cleaning services to the public or other fleets can further accelerate the return on investment and increase revenue. Most importantly, the MS 900 ensures your vehicles remain in optimal condition, allowing for quick and independent troubleshooting.This DPF filter washer machine is an essential solution for large fleets, enabling efficient and cost-effective maintenance of diesel particulate filters.

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