Soot filter cleaning instead of buying a new one.

DPF, diesel particulate filter, soot filter, particulate filter – there are many names for the historically coined soot filter. However, the function and the filtering process are the same for all variants.

A soot filter is a device in a passenger car that reliably reduces the number of emitted pollutants that occur during combustion and are present in exhaust gases from diesel (as well as gasoline) engines. Due to integrated DPF, pollutants (exhaust particles) must first pass through a fine filter. As a result, the particles are deposited on its surface as well as inside the soot filter – the filtering effect is created.

Although diesel particulate filters reliably filter out soot particles produced during combustion from the exhaust gases, the fine particles settle in the honeycomb structure of the DPF from time to time, causing the filter to become increasingly clogged.

If the soot filter is finally covered with too much soot after many hours of operation, so that even the automatic vehicle regeneration no longer has any effect, it must be regenerated or cleaned. Otherwise, this can quickly lead to increased exhaust gas pressure, higher fuel consumption or even engine damage.

The function of diesel particulate filters:

Primarily, a soot filter is a device for reducing particles that occur in exhaust gases from diesel engines. The exhaust particles are passed through a fine filter, on the surface as well as inside of which the particles are deposited. A diesel particulate filter reliably filters soot and ash from the exhaust gases of diesel engines.

To the structure of diesel particulate filter:

Ceramic/wall-flow filters:

Ceramic or wall-flow filters are characterized in their structure by many small and alternately closed channels. This design ensures that soot and ash from the exhaust gases are collected in the filter and only the filtered/cleaned exhaust gases (gaseous substances) can leave the DPF.

The exhaust gases first pass with the exhaust flow through the open channels at the filter inlet and must pass through the porous walls between the channels to exit. Since the segments are alternately closed, this is where the soot and ash are trapped.

These filter systems are installed ex works and filter out up to 98% of the harmful particles from the exhaust gases.

These filter systems are supported by upstream catalytic converters in the exhaust gas aftertreatment system.

There are 2 types of construction:

combination systems: combi-filters, in which the catalytic converter and diesel particulate filter are installed in one housing

separate systems: catalytic converter and DPF consist of 2 separate components, which are installed separately from each other. (external catalytic converter)

Offline / low-bed filter:

This type of filter is used as a retrofit filter on diesel vehicles. They are not sensor-monitored and regenerate continuously while driving at temperatures from approx. 200 degrees Celsius. They have a catalytic coating that chemically breaks down the exhaust gases. This is where the term particulate catalyst comes from.

In this design, the exhaust gases are filtered by diverting the exhaust gas flow either through porous filter walls/adjacent channels or through the regular longitudinal channels and cleaned by means of the nonwoven layer as filter medium.

The filtration rate is therefore significantly lower than with the closed wall-flow filters, i.e. fewer soot particles are filtered out of the exhaust gas!

Contrary to the claim that these filter systems are maintenance-free and do not clog, our specialist company for DPF cleaning shows a different situation. In the meantime, we are receiving more and more heavily loaded retrofit filters from customers.

Since these filters are not sensor-monitored and the vehicle does not receive any feedback on the exhaust gas back pressure/ dynamic pressure from the filter, customers frequently report that the vehicles switch to emergency mode when the retrofit filters are clogged.

Bottom line: aftermarket filters can clog, too!

Sintered metal filters:

Sintered metal filters consist of a large number of filter pockets in which fine dust and soot are deposited. They are often installed together with an upstream catalytic converter or are alternatively provided with a catalytic coating.

On the structure of exhaust systems:

Exhaust gas purification systems in cars almost always consist of a particulate filter and a catalytic converter. There are generally two types of construction, which are listed below.

Combination systems, in which the catalytic converter and diesel particulate filter are installed in a single housing
Separate systems, in which the catalytic converter and the diesel particulate filter are installed separately (external catalytic converter).

The history of diesel particulate filters:

The first attempts at exhaust gas purification were made as early as the First World War. Here, however, they acted for reasons of camouflage, to prevent the visible plumes from ships. In the automotive sector, Peugeot finally achieved a breakthrough in filter technology in 2000. It was the first manufacturer to equip a model with a soot particle filter as standard. In the meantime, an automobile manufacturer can hardly afford to offer its vehicles without a diesel particulate filter. Beyond the passenger car sector, filters are also useful and legally required for trucks, construction machinery and machines running in enclosed spaces. Since a particulate filter acts in secret, many people only really come into contact with it when it becomes clogged or fails. And that is when they have to have the particulate filter cleaned.

We clean clogged particulate filters & catalytic converters of all makes and models for diesel & gasoline vehicles.

By means of thermal-mechanical cleaning we free your particle filter and catalytic converter quickly, economically and reliably from soot and ash. After cleaning, the filter again has the properties (air flow) of a new filter.

Due to the latest emission standards, it will also be necessary to install a particulate filter in gasoline vehicles in the future. We are already prepared for this, so that we can also reliably clean gasoline particulate filters.

We also clean particulate filters and catalytic converters of trucks, buses and tractors, construction, industrial and agricultural machinery as well as CHPs and biogas plants.

Save time & money with DPF cleaning at Barten!

We, Barten GmbH, have been carrying out professional soot particle filter cleaning since 2000, which frees the filter from all residues by 98%. You are definitely at the right place if you want to have your particulate filter cleaned professionally and innovatively.

Due to our innovative procedure you can do without a costly replacement. After cleaning, the filter has the values of a new filter.

During diesel particulate filter cleaning, we first measure the clogging/loading of the particulate filter with an air flow and weight measurement. After analyzing the severity of the contamination, the soot filters are cleaned in a thermal-mechanical process until they are approximately 98% free of all residues, primarily: the soot and ash residues, and have reached the reference value for the respective filter type. This often requires several particle filter cleaning cycles!

Particle filter cleaning at Barten – by means of thermal mechanical cleaning

In our many years of activity as a specialist company for soot filter cleaning, we have taken a closer look at many cleaning approaches and, in the sense of further development and improvement of our company’s service, we have also tested/experienced various techniques.

For soot filter cleaning, we still rely on the thermal-mechanical and TÜV-tested cleaning process developed by us. The filter is cleaned in the dismantled state, without cutting open the housing and without additives/chemicals. This procedure comes closest to the self-regeneration of the vehicle developed by the manufacturers, which relies on the burning off of soot by increasing the combustion temperature (internal/external regeneration), whereby we additionally remove the ash! Likewise, burnout preserves the coatings and materials located in the catalytic converter, DPF or particulate catalyst, which are necessary for optimal exhaust gas aftertreatment.

Imagine a classic stove with a glass pane. The black soot that appears at the beginning and settles on the pane burns off when the right temperature is reached. Only ash remains in the fireplace. This can then be easily removed during furnace cleaning.

>>In our process, we perform this in a figurative sense in a similar way. The ash is gently removed by us after the firing process, in a special mechanical process. Deposited ash can be effectively removed only in the dismantled state. >>

However, if the sensitive kiln glass is cleaned with harsh chemicals, abrasives or liquids, this will result in cleaning, but scratches and attacked surfaces / sealing strips may result. Also the disposal of the loosened dirt, with the cleaning agents taken to the help, falls now. Here it is uncertain how some means affect health and the environment during application and disposal. Similar references can be transferred to the different, on the market offered, methods for DPF cleaning.

Avoid costly DPF replacement in the long run with DPF cleaning from Barten.

When a professional diesel particulate filter cleaning is performed, DPFs can be fully reconditioned and have the values of a new filter. So, with proper DPF cleaning, a particulate filter will last the life of the car and will not need to be replaced with an expensive new filter.

Here you can see our thermal-mechanical cleaning process compared to other DPF cleaning processes.

Particle filter express cleaning (within 24 hrs.)

Our customers’ filters are cleaned until they are approximately 98% free of soot and ash residues and have reached the reference value for the respective filter type.

The duration of DPF cleaning therefore depends on the degree of contamination (mileage-related). Generally, we need about 1-3 working days (Monday to Friday) for DPF cleaning, but on average 80% of the filters are cleaned within 24 hours.

Fast and easy processing for DPF cleaning

If you need to have your DPF cleaned, you can rely on us for fast and uncomplicated processing.

You can deliver the removed DPF to us, have it picked up by our UPS pick-up service at an address of your choice, or send the filter to us yourself. (The advantage of UPS pickup is a reduced shipping time of 1 day).

If you send us the filter, please print out the online order form (you will receive this by email after placing your order). Include this with the package to ensure proper allocation of the filters. Please pack the soot filter neatly in a cardboard box and pad it sufficiently. If you have selected package pickup, please also print out the additional shipping label and affix this to the package. The UPS driver will pick up the package at the time you select.

Your guarantees with DPF Cleaning by Barten

Satisfaction Guarantee: We give a 6-month guarantee on our cleaning service … no IFs or BUTs! If your filter is reloaded within this time (e.g. due to a defect in accruals or defective components in the engine), we will clean it again – free of charge – for you.
Cleanliness guarantee: The soot filters cleaned by us are cleaned as long and as often as necessary until they are 98% free of soot and ash residues and reach the measured values of a new filter.
Money-back guarantee: If the filter does not reach the reference value required by us even after several cleaning attempts, then you do not have to pay anything for the cleaning. The filter will then be returned to you as “uncleaned” and no longer usable -free of charge.
A 2nd cleaning after the 6-month warranty period is carried out from 7-12 months at a special price of 150 €.
If you have the filter removed/cleaned by a partner workshop, the free warranty period is extended from 6 to 12 months.

Facts and figures about the package removal

If you need to have your particulate filter cleaned, you can conveniently send it to us by mail.

To calculate the belt dimension, you can use our online belt dimension calculator.

You can find it on our order form page.

The belt dimension is made up as follows:

girth (full length around the package or 2x height + 2x width) + longest side.

Girth up to 330cm and longest side under 150cm = NO additional costs

For larger packages, the following additional costs will apply:

Girth up to 330cm and longest side over 150cm = additional costs 25,- Euro net

Girth from 330cm up to max. 419cm and longest side max. up to 180cm = additional costs 95,- Euro net

Insufficiently packed parcels e.g. only foil/paper and sticking out = additional costs 25,- Euro net

Packages must not weigh more than 32kg

No costs in case of failed DPF cleaning

If you send us your DPF for cleaning, but it should be defective, there are no costs for you for the assessment and testing of the DPF. You only have to pay the shipping costs. If the DPF can no longer be cleaned, the costly replacement is unfortunately usually unavoidable.

Easy payment for diesel particulate filter cleaning

After the incoming inspection, you will receive an e-mail about the receipt and condition of your diesel particulate filter. In addition, our invoice is attached to this e-mail. You are welcome to send us a payment receipt of the bank transfer as proof or you have the option to pay directly via PAYPAL. For private customers, we will ship the cleaned filters only after we have received the payment/proof of the bank transfer. Payment by cash on delivery is also possible.

For workshops, the DPF cleaning is done on account.

You must observe the following when installing the filter!

Please follow our installation instructions. You will receive these with the return of your cleaned DPF.

In it you will find all the important information about the reset and a checklist with possible sources of error.

Benefit as a partner workshop for DPF cleaning

As a car workshop, you receive DPF cleaning at our favorable workshop rate.

You can make a price inquiry via our contact form. Here you have the possibility to upload your trade license / letterhead for registration and verification.

Select as subject: Conditions for workshops.

How to register!

You have a workshop and would like to become a partner workshop of Barten? Send an inquiry via our contact form and select as subject: Become PW.

We will then send you all the information/benefits of a partnership by email.

What distinguishes us as a good specialist company for DPF cleaning NRW

In the meantime there are a lot of cleaning offers for DPF cleaning NRW on the internet. For the customer it is difficult and time-consuming to get an overview from the multitude of offers and to distinguish the serious from the dubious providers, if he has to have his DPF cleaned. We have provided you below with a checklist of important quality characteristics that, in our opinion, make up a good professional company for DPF cleaning:

Checklist for choosing professional providers for soot filter cleaning:

Is the filter cleaned while closed or is it opened? (The opening of the filter can lead to an expiration of the operating license, since at the original part a type change takes place).
Is the ceramic of the filter replaced by e.g. inexpensive/non-original ceramic cores? (this is also a design change to the original part, which can lead to invalidation of the operating permit if this has not been approved by the German Federal Motor Vehicle Authority)
Is the filter cleaned when removed? (DPFs such as wall-flow, ceramic, bypass, deep-bed or sintered metal filters can only be cleaned in their dismantled state at new-value quality).
Is the process / cleaning procedure TÜV tested or only the machinery? Are the TÜV certificates visible/public and up to date? (e.g. some companies advertise with the TÜV, but only the machines are TÜV tested).
In terms of waste disposal, it should be certified and comprehensible that the waste materials are disposed of professionally and in a qualified manner (e.g. ISO certification for environmental management).
Is there a certification for quality assurance? (e.g. according to ISO)
Which process is used? (See: What are the cleaning methods?)
Is there a warranty for the customer?
Are there installation instructions for the customer (instructions for installation, resetting and possible sources of error that lead to a renewed premature loading of the DPF)?
Do you work together with partner companies?
What is the service like?
How long has the company been in business (experience)?

Perform DPF cleaning privately as not efficient

From our professional point of view, we can only advise you against independent diesel particulate filter cleaning using DPF cleaners for private use. Because: with these private cleaners you will probably rarely achieve even a halfway satisfactory result. The chemical-based cleaners or cleaning solutions are often even harmful to your DPF or engine. As a result, expensive damage can occur. So, if you need to clean your DPF, it’s worth going directly to professionals like us and avoid follow-up costs.

DPF cleaning is almost as old as the soot filter itself. With soot particle filter cleaning, you can save your own wallet, the environment and fellow human beings. But when is it really necessary to have your DPF cleaned?

Basically, you need to have your DPF cleaned when it is clogged. There are some indications that point to the necessity of a DPF cleaning.

The DPF in modern cars is a wearing part like brake pads or tires. It is only communicated differently by the manufacturers, namely as maintenance-free. A car battery is also maintenance-free – if there are problems with it, it is not serviced but replaced. The situation is similar with a diesel particulate filter, or DPF for short. Here, however, the DPF replacement can be cleverly avoided by a DPF cleaning with a suitable method for particle filter cleaning.

Basically, one’s own driving style has a significant influence on the “filling” of the DPF. In the past, fuel-saving driving was done at low revs, but modern diesel vehicles need higher revs or speeds than those used for short trips. These do not lead to the (temperature) range in which the particulate filter can regenerate itself. Soot particles deposited in the filter are burned off and cannot clog the particulate filter. However, ash or tiny metal particles from the engine, i.e. incombustible substances, also clog the diesel particulate filter, so that filter and engine functions are noticeably affected. The time when you need to have the DPF cleaned is getting closer and closer.

Then even a functioning regeneration can no longer help, because the filter becomes clogged. Now a particle filter cleaning can be carried out. This eliminates the otherwise necessary and costly replacement of the particulate filter. DPF cleaning, on the other hand, can be carried out easily and inexpensively in our specialist cleaning company.

The driving style therefore has a lasting effect on the filter performance and regeneration. Should the particulate filter (DPF) become clogged, professional DPF cleaning, with the appropriate procedure for DPF cleaning, is the smart alternative to filter replacement.

Because: The purchase of a new original filter is associated with considerable costs. As a rule, new diesel particulate filters range between 1,000 and 4,000 euros depending on the vehicle model.

DPF cleaning is important for you, the environment and your car

If you have your soot filter cleaned regularly, you will save costs and protect the environment at the same time. Likewise, fuel consumption is reduced by DPF cleaning and the engine is protected.

DPF clogged by continuous accumulation of ash or ash residue

Basically, it can be said that over the years of use, more and more ash accumulates in a particulate filter, which eventually causes the DPF to clog. As part of the internal and external vehicle regeneration process, soot is burned out of the filter, which eventually remains inside as ash residue. The so-called filter cake is formed.

Under optimum operating conditions, the regeneration process only produces ash residues, which accumulate in the DPF until the maximum collection capacity is reached there.

In the case of frequent short-distance journeys and if regeneration journeys are not carried out properly (learn how to properly clear your car here), the soot deposited in the filter cannot be burned off properly. This causes it to get into the filter cake, the filter clogs much faster due to the nature and density of the soot, and it is unavoidable to have the diesel particulate filter cleaned.

Soot particle filter cleaning can also be made necessary by the use of low-grade engine oil or defective add-on parts in the engine (glow plugs, EGR valves, sensors, etc.), as these also contribute to increased soot deposits in the filter in addition to the burnt-off ash.

If components are even simply defective, the DPF can become clogged within a very short time, if a higher proportion of soot accumulates in the exhaust gas due to unclean combustion of the exhaust gases. The customer then only has the option of buying an expensive new DPF or having the particulate filter cleaned by us at a reasonable price – or, of course, by any other specialist company for soot filter cleaning.

When exactly a diesel particulate filter clogs depends on the driving style!

The following example shows why short trips regularly cause problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).

Mr. Example drives 18 km to work every day. The route leads mainly through the city, i.e. predominantly stop and go traffic. Due to this short driving distance, the water and oil temperatures only just reach the required operating temperatures. Often, these are only around 200-300 degrees for short distances – and are therefore insufficient for regeneration.

If the car does reach the required engine temperature through longer driving, regeneration starts, but is repeatedly interrupted due to the short driving time, as around 15-20 minutes of driving time are required for successful regeneration. The particulate filter is thus gradually clogged with moist and sticky soot.

If the soot filter is not cleaned promptly (or, of course, replaced at high cost), consequential damage (EGR valve, turbocharger, etc.) cannot be ruled out. This is because the vehicle has to process the exhaust backpressure because it can no longer flow out of the back of the DPF filter. This results in back pressure in the direction of the engine. In the best case, the vehicle goes into emergency mode due to the increased exhaust backpressure and can then only be operated with reduced mileage.

Over time, therefore, the particulate filter becomes increasingly clogged with ash. How quickly a particulate filter ultimately clogs up or when you need to have the particulate filter cleaned depends on how you drive. For example, if you mainly drive short distances, it is possible that the particulate filter will clog after just 70,000 km. On the other hand, if the DPF is mainly used for long journeys, it will only clog after 150,000 km. At the latest, however, when this guideline value has been reached, it is time for DPF cleaning. You can rely on us for this!

This way you can reliably identify a clogged DPF:

If you are unsure when exactly you should have your DPF cleaned, here we offer you reliable indications of when your car’s DPF may be clogged.

The first sign of a clogged DPF is usually poorer acceleration and increased fuel consumption. In addition, in the case of sensor-monitored DPFs, this fault is indicated in the vehicle cockpit by means of a warning light.

However, when identifying a clogged DPF, a distinction must be made between regulated and unregulated exhaust gas aftertreatment systems.

In the case of the controlled/sensor-monitored systems, a clogged filter may initially become apparent through higher diesel consumption.

A warning lamp in the display/cockpit also indicates a critical load (engine control lamp). The message is stored in the fault memory of the engine control unit. Due to the increased exhaust backpressure, there may also be a loss of power and “jerking” of the vehicle, or the vehicle may switch to emergency running mode. In this mode, the vehicle can only be driven at reduced engine speed and at a maximum speed of approx. 80 km/h (50 mph).

Another sign is increased smoke development from the exhaust system. If the filter is heavily loaded and has been for a long time, increased oil consumption may indicate costly consequential damage (e.g. to the turbocharger).

2. In the case of the unregulated filters, which are mostly retrofitted, there is no sensor monitoring of the exhaust backpressure upstream and downstream of the filter. No information is passed on to the control system and regeneration takes place automatically when the necessary operating temperature is reached. If the filter is clogged, there is a loss of power and “jerking” of the vehicle and the vehicle switches to emergency running Mode!If the soot filter is clogged, you are faced with a choice: DPF cleaning or costly replacement. If you want to have your particulate filter cleaned, we will be happy to do it for you.Increase intervals for diesel particulate filter cleaning with appropriate driving style

   Considering the costs associated with DPF replacement or DPF cleaning, the question quickly arises as to how best to protect your diesel particulate filter. In general, we can only advise you to avoid short trips. This is because a large amount of moist and stubborn soot is formed during these journeys, which clogs the filter permanently until it is finally necessary to have the soot particle filter cleaned.

It is extremely important to have a particulate filter in your car and to clean the DPF regularly in order to comply with the particulate limits.

Diesel particulate filters are mandatory in order to comply with certain particulate matter limits.

Fine particulate matter has many causes. Even though road traffic is a minor source of particulate matter in contrast to industry and shipping, it is of particular importance. Here, apart from smaller amounts such as tire or clutch abrasion, diesel soot is a significant source. Diesel soot is produced because of the special chemical properties of diesel and because of the combustion process itself. When diesel fuel is burned in engines, soot particles are produced. These particles are highly hazardous to our health. For this reason, particulate matter limits have been set. When the passenger car is in operation, these limits must not be exceeded!

The fine dust limit values in the today’s time, for the protection of the environment and health of the population, a ever higher meaning is attached. The fine dust limit values are lowered since then ever further.

Development of the limit values:

Since 1992 (Euro 1) for particulate matter mass per Km (PM).
Since 2000 (Euro 3) limit values for nitrogen oxides (NOx), 0.5g/km
Since 2005/2006 limit values at 0.25g/km
Since 2009 /2011 (Euro 5) limits for particle number (PN), 0.18g/km
Since 2014/2015 (Euro 6) limits NOx 0.08g/km + PM 0.0045 g/km

Soot filters are now available for diesel engines and gasoline engines to effectively reduce soot particles and emissions. In this process, the soot particles are passed through a fine-pored, high-temperature filter, which finally filters the soot particles out of the exhaust gases.

A particulate filter works in secret, so that the driver normally does not notice how it works. Nevertheless, a DPF (or OPF) is enormously important for you, your vehicle and our environment. In addition, you will not be able to avoid a particulate filter in order to comply with the particulate limits.

You can even tighten the statement and say that it is mandatory that you have a clean, functioning particulate filter. Because: only with such a filter the effective reduction of pollutants is guaranteed. Thus, it is additionally your duty to have a particle filter cleaned regularly. If you need to have your particulate filter cleaned, we will be happy to help you with our innovative and at the same time gentle DPF cleaning process – fast, uncomplicated, reliable and cost-effective.

Retrofitting a particulate filter can make sense

All newer diesel vehicles must be equipped with a soot filter at the factory, as no car manufacturer can afford to do without this component anymore (legal directive for compliance with emission values). Public awareness of the problem is too great. In addition, the so-called environmental zones in major European cities also play a role. Here, only vehicles (diesel and gasoline) with “appropriate” exhaust emission values are permitted, and a sticker (green sticker-after Euro 4) provides obvious information.

For older diesel vehicles with emission class 3 (yellow sticker), a green environmental sticker according to Euro 4 can be achieved with the retrofitting of a diesel particulate filter, so it may well be worthwhile to have a soot filter retrofitted. However, the state-subsidized retrofit expired in 2016.

However, it can still make sense to retrofit a soot filter for environmental and health reasons or due to the introduction of low emission zones. In addition, the resale value can increase and insurance premiums decrease. Therefore, a soot filter retrofit is worthwhile – in terms of the environment anyway!

On the difference between original diesel particulate filters (DPF) and aftermarket filters:

Various materials (e.g. cordierite, silicon carbide, aluminum titanate, etc.) are processed in the ceramic / monolith of a DPF / catalytic converter, as well as coated / vaporized with precious metals (rhodium, platinum, palladium, etc.). These contribute significantly to the conversion of the pollutants.

Since these precious metals, just like gold/platinum for example, are a fixed quantity on the world market, it is only possible to produce the ceramics of the DPF more cheaply if they are contained/processed in a smaller form. This also explains that cheaply manufactured filters usually do not have the quality and longevity of an original DPF.

Therefore, cleaning at Barten is recommended, as you can continue to use your original diesel particulate filter in the best possible quality.

Meaning of the abbreviation DPF

DPF is the abbreviation for Diesel Particulate Filter.

Other terms for DPF are:

RF (soot filter)
RPF (particulate filter)
DRPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)

About the costs – DPF cleaning vs. car replacement

The replacement of a diesel particulate filter is associated with high costs. Because: the new price for a particulate filter is often between 1,000-5,000 euros. We offer on the other hand a complete particle filter cleaning of all KFZ -models for 375, – euro inclusive VAT and return dispatch. Whether you want to replace the filter or decide for DPF cleaning, we leave it up to you. With a DPF cleaning you can save up to 70% of the cost of a new filter and still get a filter that has the values of a new filter.

So you can save quite a bit of money with professional DPF cleaning NRW!

Further information on DPF regeneration

As soon as a certain back pressure is reached in the diesel particulate filter, the vehicle electronics start the internal regeneration, whereby the soot particles in the filter are burned to ash. However, only the upper soot layers are affected by this combustion, so that the filter gradually becomes clogged with soot and ash.

The independent regeneration of a soot filter can only take place up to a certain point. In this process, deposited soot residues are burned off and only ash remains.

If independent DPF regeneration can no longer take place, you should hire a company for professional soot particle filter cleaning. If you need to have your DPF cleaned, we will be happy to assist you.

To make a DPF last as long as possible, the vehicle has the self-cleaning mode available.

There are 2 variants of the vehicle’s own internal regeneration – the so-called active and passive regeneration.

Passive regeneration always takes place when the vehicle has reached a certain operating temperature/exhaust gas temperature. The accumulated soot is then burned off to ash in the filter. Since ash has a much smaller volume than soot, a DPF filled only with ash will last correspondingly longer. This regeneration takes place in the background and is not noticed by the customer.
In active regeneration, the current value of the air throughput (i.e. how much air can flow freely through the filter) upstream and downstream of the filter is transmitted to the on-board electronics via the sensors located on the filter (lambda/differential pressure sensor). If this is too low due to a high soot particle content (or the exhaust gas back pressure is too high), active regeneration is initiated by the electronics. Here, more diesel fuel is injected so that the exhaust gas temperature increases and soot burns off in the filter.

External regeneration:

Another option for regeneration is so-called forced regeneration. This is usually used as a first aid by workshops when the particulate filter warning light is shown in the display. Here, an extra program is initiated for regeneration, whereby the injection quantity and the number of revolutions under full load are increased via the system so that the soot burns to ash, thereby improving the air flow in the filter.

If the filter is too heavily loaded or if forced regeneration is repeated, this form of regeneration can also cause damage to the ceramic (fusing).

Additive assisted regeneration:

There are also soot filters in which additives in the fuel lower the soot combustion temperature and the burn-off process takes place from about 400 degrees. The combustion of additives additionally increases the ash content in the filter.

• With all regeneration methods, only part of the soot is burned to ash. In addition, the ash always remains in the filter and gradually clogs it. Replacement or cleaning is indispensable due to the running performance.A DPF still clogs over timeA DPF nevertheless clogs over the years of operation due to the accumulation of ash. This is produced during the combustion of soot as part of the internal and external regenerations.

  Under optimal operating conditions, ash residues always accumulate as the end product of regeneration until the maximum collection capacity is reached. Gradually, the so-called filter cake forms and the filter becomes clogged.

  In the case of frequent short journeys or interruptions to regeneration journeys, e.g. due to “stop and go” traffic, the filter can become clogged. Stop and Go” traffic, the deposited soot cannot be burned off. This clogs the filter much faster due to its composition and density.

  But also inferior engine oil or defective attachments in the engine, such as glow plugs, EGR valve, sensors, etc., contribute to the fact that in addition to the burned ash, increased soot is deposited in the filter.

  In the case of defective components, a filter can become clogged within a very short period of time, when a higher proportion of soot accumulates in the exhaust gas due to unclean combustion of the exhaust gases.

  The customer is then left with only an expensive new purchase or a cost-saving filter cleaning in a specialist company for soot filter cleaning.

  Currently offered methods for particle filter cleaning

  Thermal-mechanical particle filter cleaning: (cleaning method of the company Barten)
  Compressed air (pneumatic DPF cleaning)
  Flushing method with or without chemical cleaners
  Refrigeration (dry ice)
  Ultrasonic
  High pressure cleaner
  Oven spray
  Chemical solutions / self-cleaners

  About the durability of the filter after DPF cleaning

  The “durability” depends on the mileage, the DPF monolith (core) and the proper functioning of all engine attachments/wear parts (glow plug, EGR valve, coolant thermostat, sensors, turbocharger, etc.).

  Therefore, it is important to thoroughly inspect the vehicle for defective parts in the course of DPF cleaning, so that these sources of error (which, among other things, lead to increased soot formation and premature reloading) are eliminated. Particle filter cleaning can be carried out several times if the DPF is technically sound and in good working order – i.e. the ceramics must not be damaged/ have any burn-through.

  Proper disposal of the discharge after DPF cleaning

  Proper disposal of the soot filter discharge after DPF cleaning takes on great importance in the cleaning of diesel particulate filters.

  But how do you properly dispose of the soot filter discharge in the first place?

  Over time, ash, soot, oil and other residues accumulate inside the filter and must be disposed of as hazardous waste after cleaning to prevent them from entering the environment and irreparably damaging it in the long term.

  By disposing of DPF emissions properly, environmental pollution can be prevented and the health of the employees working in the workshops can be protected.

  Other methods of cleaning diesel particulate filters – which are supposedly cheap and inadequate anyway – often result in the direct release of the pollutants from the particulate filter on site, so that not only the environment but also the cleaning employees are directly harmed.

  As part of our services for diesel particulate filter cleaning, we see it as a matter of course to take over the professional disposal of the discharge resulting from DPF cleaning for our customers.

  In this way, we make an important contribution to the long-term preservation of our environment!

On the role of catalysts in cars – and our everyday lives:

Catalysts are of enormous importance in almost all areas of daily life – without us always being aware of it.

The best-known example is catalytic converters in cars.

They are used for exhaust gas aftertreatment and clean the exhaust gases produced during combustion in the engine. In addition, catalytic converters in cars ensure that harmful exhaust gas components are converted into harmless gases. In this way, harmful substances and particles are prevented from escaping into the environment and posing no threat to humans or the environment. A catalytic converter uses catalysis for this purpose; this is a chemical process.

A catalyst consists of a steel casing. In this is either a metallic (metalith) or ceramic (monolith) core. The core has many small channels running through it in the longitudinal direction. The aim is to create as large a surface area as possible so that the catalyst has an optimum effect. The carrier surface is coated with a highly porous layer (wash-coat). Precious metals (platinum, palladium and/or rhodium) are embedded in this. This process also takes place in a car catalytic converter, but the term catalytic converter is now directly associated with the corresponding component. Apart from that, a catalytic converter also serves food production or is used in the production of fertilizers.

Catalysts are key technologies. They can ensure that a reaction requires less energy because it takes a different path than would be the case without the catalyst. In practical terms, a reaction can take place at lower temperatures or in a shorter time. This makes the entire process more energy-efficient. With these special properties, a catalyst plays an important role in a wide range of everyday applications (including food production and the production of fertilizers). As a result, there is no one catalyst for all cases. Rather, each reaction requires its own specific candidate. Thus, the catalyst will accompany us also in the future as a key technology, an important contribution in questions of energy, raw materials and environment.

Besides DPF cleaning also catalyst cleaning – expertise of Barten GmbH:

Catalytic converters are relevant for cars, people and the environment. Many of our customers are unsure when they come to us to have the particulate filter cleaned. Here we are often confronted with the question whether in addition to the particle filter cleaning also the catalytic converter needs an external cleaning.

There are 2 different construction systems:

Combination filters in which the catalytic converter and DPF are installed in one housing.
Separate systems in which the DPF and the catalytic converter are installed separately (external catalytic converter)

With the combination filters, the catalytic converter is cleaned automatically and at no extra charge. If your vehicle has an additional external catalytic converter in addition to the DPF, then this should also be cleaned. Although the catalytic converter does not clog like a particulate filter, the catalytic converter surface is covered with a layer of soot, which reduces the catalytic behavior or extends the reaction time of the catalytic converter. In addition, it can happen that accumulated soot is released from the catalytic converter and contaminates/coats the cleaned particulate filter again. In such cases, the DPF must be removed and cleaned again. In the case of sensor-monitored catalytic converters, error messages/problems can also occur, as the error message “Efficiency below minimum”, for example, is reported to the control unit due to the sooting.

For the cleaning of the external catalytic converter, in conjunction with a particulate filter, there are additional costs of 50,- Euro incl. VAT.

“Does your vehicle have an additional external catalytic converter in addition to the DPF?

Please be sure to clarify this with your workshop, as this should also be cleaned. Although the catalytic converter does not clog like a DPF, the catalytic converter surface does become covered with a layer of soot, which reduces the catalytic behavior or increases the reaction time of the catalytic converter. In addition, the accumulated soot may detach from the pre-installed external catalytic converter and thus contaminate the cleaned particulate filter again.

Error messages/problems can also occur, as the catalytic converter is monitored by a lambda sensor and, due to sooting, reports the error message “Efficiency below minimum” to the control unit, for example.

Some catalytic converters have an additional late injection to increase the combustion temperature. Here, extra injected diesel is atomized and burned by an injector, contributing to a higher exhaust gas temperature and combustion of the diesel particles. If this process cannot take place due to a clogged nozzle, for example, increased soot formation occurs because the temperature is too low, leading to loading of the DPF.

In the course of the diesel particulate filter cleaning, you can also have your external catalytic converter cleaned. This incurs additional costs of 50 euros including VAT.”

About the different types of catalytic converters:

Not all catalytic converters are the same – as with DPFs, there are also differences here.

The exhaust gases produced during fuel combustion are treated according to different chemical principles before they are mechanically collected in the DPF. The following catalyst types are used for catalytic exhaust gas treatment:

SCR CAT
NOx storage catalyst
Oxidation catalyst
Regulated three-way catalytic converter
Unregulated catalytic converter