The Role of Diesel Particulate Filter Cleaner Additives

Do I have a Diesel Particulate Filter?

The answer is: yes, probably. Diesel vehicles are popular due to their power and durability, however, they also release a large amount of emissions into the atmosphere. To combat this, the Euro 5 standard for diesel vehicles was introduced in 2009 and made mandatory in 2011. This set strict limits for emissions and required all new diesel cars to be fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Therefore, Silverhook created diesel particulate filter cleaner additives to help maintain engine performance whilst complying with the stringent emission regulations.

What is a Diesel Particulate Filter and how do they work?

A Diesel Particulate Filter is designed to trap and remove the soot, carbon and ash from leaving via the exhaust. It is a ceramic structure made up of numerous channels that divert exhaust gases through the porous walls and filter out harmful particles. By trapping these particles, DPFs help to meet environmental regulations and remove harmful emissions that would otherwise be released into the air.

As with any filter, they need to be emptied regularly to maintain efficient performance levels - this is called regeneration. The collected particles are burnt off at high temperatures whilst the vehicle is driven for 30 minutes or more at speeds greater than 40mph at 2000-2500 rpm. However, over time, or if the vehicle is not being used for long distances, an excessive amount of soot can become accumulated and lead to decreased filter efficiency, reduced engine performance, and even costly repairs.

What Do DPF Cleaner Additives Do?

Silverhook Diesel Particulate Filter Cleaner additives are iron-based, organo-metallic formulas dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. They have been specially formulated to effectively reduce the soot that has become trapped in the DPF, improving its performance and longevity. These additives can be added before filling the vehicle (or storage bulk) tank or should be added by a special dosing unit fitted to the vehicle. 

Enhance Soot Combustion: Silverhook DPF Cleaners lower the ignition temperature of the soot collected in the filter, and thus assists the periodic combustion of the soot, known as regeneration.

Prevent Clogging: By breaking down accumulated soot and other harmful substances, DPF additives help prevent the filter from becoming clogged, which could lead to decreased engine performance and increased fuel consumption.

Extend DPF Lifespan: Regular use of DPF cleaner additives can extend the lifespan of the filter, reducing the chances of replacement due to damage or severe clogging.

Improve Fuel Efficiency: Cleaner exhaust systems allow for better airflow and combustion, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency and engine performance.

Lower Emissions: By reducing particulate emissions, DPF cleaner additives contribute to meeting legal emission standards and help protect the environment.

Why Do We Need DPF Cleaner Additives?

The need for diesel particulate filter cleaner additives may be for several different reasons:

Increasing Regulations: With growing environmental concerns, governments around the world are enforcing stricter emissions regulations. Using DPF cleaner additives can help fleets and individual drivers meet these standards without incurring significant costs or making drastic changes to their vehicles.

Preventing Costly Repairs: Clogged DPFs can lead to extensive engine damage and expensive repair bills. Regular maintenance, including the use of cleaner additives, can mitigate these risks and keep engines running smoothly.

Maintaining Performance: A cleaner DPF means optimal performance for your diesel engine. By using additives, drivers can ensure that their vehicles operate efficiently, providing the power and fuel efficiency that diesel engines are known for.

Convenience: Silverhook DPF cleaning additives are easy to use and can be incorporated into routine fuel maintenance. There is no dismantling or reassembly required, no shutdowns, and no interruptions to operation (dismantling for ash removal will be required at times as for all DPF systems, but no other shut downs are required for normal operation).

Main Benefits of Silverhook DPF Cleaner Additives

• Can be used for all diesel engines
• The catalyst derived from the FBC is evenly distributed within the soot particles, as opposed to only being present at the soot filter boundary as in a catalyst‐coated DPF
• Regeneration with our Particulate Filter Cleaner is 5‐10 times faster than when using a catalyst coated DPF substrate
• No dismantling of filter required, regeneration takes place during operation
• The German Federal Agency of Environmental Affairs recommends the working components in our Particulate Filter Cleaner combined with a diesel particulate filter
• Offers more complete additive regeneration than alternative systems
• Ideal for the aftermarket. The treat rate can easily be adapted to the amount of engine soot, and the product is unaffected by fuel and lube compositions
• No secondary emissions
• Product stability: ‐30°C to +90°C.