As modern diesel engines become cleaner and more efficient, the use of AdBlue has become standard across trucks, machinery, generators and off-road equipment. Whether you’re running a fleet, managing a transport depot, operating a worksite or maintaining agricultural machinery, storing and dispensing AdBlue correctly is crucial for performance and compliance.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about AdBlue tanks, including requirements, tank types, sizes, handling considerations and Australian compliance guidelines.

What Is AdBlue?

AdBlue is a high-purity urea-based solution used in Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions from diesel engines.
It is non-toxic, non-flammable and safe to handle — but extremely sensitive to contamination and temperature.

Because AdBlue purity directly affects SCR performance, storing it correctly is essential.

Why You Need a Dedicated AdBlue Tank

Unlike diesel, AdBlue cannot be stored in regular fuel tanks. It requires:

• specific materials
• closed systems to prevent contamination
• temperature-controlled environments
• dedicated dispensing equipment

Using the wrong tank type can lead to:

• equipment damage
• blocked injectors
• SCR system failure
• increased maintenance costs
• check-engine warnings or vehicle derating
• Investing in a proper AdBlue tank protects both your equipment and your operational reliability.

Types of AdBlue Tanks

The right tank depends on your fuel storage setup, fleet size, refuelling routines and site layout. Below are the main types used across Australia.

1. Poly AdBlue Tanks (Most Common)

Made from UV-stabilised polyethylene, poly AdBlue tanks are engineered specifically for AdBlue’s corrosive properties.

Features:

• Lightweight and portable
• Resistant to urea corrosion
• Ideal for farms, workshops and mobile refuelling
• Available with 12V, 24V or manual pumps
• Cost-effective and versatile

Typical uses:

• Ute-mounted transport
• Mobile machinery
• Workshop dispensing

2. Self-Bunded AdBlue Tanks

Self-bunded (double-walled) tanks offer a higher level of environmental protection. They are ideal for large operations that require bulk AdBlue storage.

Features:

• Built-in 110% secondary containment
• Suitable for fixed sites and high-volume usage
• Lockable pump bays
• Compatible with electric pump systems
• Long-term outdoor durability

Typical uses:

• Transport depots
• Fleet refuelling yards
• Civil & construction sites

3. AdBlue IBC Tanks (Intermediate Bulk Containers)

IBC tanks are a popular middle-ground solution for moderate AdBlue usage.

Features:

• 1,000L capacity
• Steel cage for protection
• Can be paired with electric or manual pumps
• Easy for forklifts to transport

Typical uses:

• Workshops
• Machinery fleets
• Seasonal or medium consumption

4. ISO AdBlue Tanks

ISO tanks are designed for high-volume, industrial-level storage and transport.

Features:

• Bulk capacity
• Built for transport and international shipping
• High structural strength
• Compatible with AdBlue transfer systems

Typical uses:

• Mining
• Export/import operations
• Remote supply distribution

Ideal AdBlue Tank Sizes

Tank sizes depend on consumption. Below is a simple guide:

Small to Medium Operations

• 100L – 400L poly tanks

• Ideal for farms, contractors, workshops, service vehicles

Medium to High Usage

• 600L – 1,000L IBC tanks

• Good for machinery fleets, depots and worksites

High-Volume or Bulk Supply

• 1,500L – 10,000L+ self-bunded tanks

• Ideal for transport fleets and civil projects

Large-Scale Industrial

• 10,000L – 20,000L+ ISO tanks

• Suitable for high turnover & distribution

Australian Compliance Requirements for AdBlue Storage

AdBlue has unique handling and storage requirements to ensure purity and compliance. Below are the key standards relevant in Australia.

1. Material Compatibility

AdBlue must only be stored in:

• polyethylene (PE)
• stainless steel
• polypropylene

It must not be stored in:

• carbon steel
• copper
• aluminium
• brass
• galvanised materials
• These can contaminate and degrade the solution.

2. Temperature Requirements

AdBlue should be kept between:

• −11°C and 30°C

Exposure to excessive heat can cause:

• urea breakdown
• crystallisation
• reduced concentration
• In Australia’s climate, shaded or insulated tanks are recommended.

3. Contamination Prevention

AdBlue is extremely sensitive to contaminants including:

• dust
• diesel
• oils
• metals
• water
• Compliance requires:
• sealed tanks
• closed dispensing systems
• dedicated AdBlue pumps and hoses

Never mix AdBlue dispensing equipment with diesel equipment.

4. Secondary Containment (Bund Requirements)

For large storage volumes, many sites require:

• self-bunded tanks, or
• external bund walls

Requirements vary by state and by storage capacity.

5. Environmental Protection

Facilities storing large volumes may require:

• spill kits
• bunding
• signage
• secure access control
• These help prevent contamination of waterways and soil.

6. Transport Compliance

If you transport AdBlue:

• tanks must be secure
• lids and caps must be sealed
• pumps must have shut-off capability
• This prevents spills during movement.

How Much AdBlue Your Operation Will Use

As a general rule:

• Trucks consume 3–5% AdBlue relative to diesel usage
• Machinery may consume slightly more depending on load
• High idle time increases AdBlue use

Example:
A truck using 1,000L of diesel per week will need approx. 30–50L of AdBlue.

Knowing your usage helps determine whether a poly tank, IBC, or self-bunded tank is the most efficient investment.

When You Should Choose Each Type of AdBlue Tank

Choose a Poly AdBlue Tank if you need:

• mobility
• ute or trailer mounting
• smaller, frequent refills
• a low-cost starter solution

Choose an IBC AdBlue Tank if you need:

• medium volume storage
• forklift mobility
• workshop or depot use

Choose a Self-Bunded AdBlue Tank if you need:

• high-volume bulk storage
• environmental compliance
• outdoor durability
• integrated pump bays
• long-term site infrastructure

Choose an ISO AdBlue Tank if you need:

• very large capacity

• international or long-distance transport

• industrial-level supply chain integration

Best Practices for AdBlue Tank Maintenance

• Keep tanks sealed at all times
• Inspect pumps, hoses and nozzles for contamination
• Avoid exposing tanks to direct sunlight or high heat
• Use only dedicated AdBlue-compatible equipment
• Rotate stock to avoid ageing (shelf life 12–18 months depending on temperature)
• Keep the tank area clean and free of dust

These practices help maintain purity and protect your machinery.

• AdBlue storage isn’t complicated — but it does require the right tank and dispensing equipment to maintain purity, ensure compliance and protect your SCR systems. Whether you choose a poly tank, IBC, self-bunded tank or ISO container, the key is matching the tank type to your usage, environment and operational requirements.
• Investing in the right AdBlue tank improves:
• engine reliability
• fuel efficiency
• emissions control
• long-term cost savings
• site safety and compliance