METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR REMOVING DEPOSITS IN AN AFTERTREATMENT SYSTEM TO MINIMIZE VISIBLE SMOKE EMISSIONS

Systems and methods for removing soot in an aftertreatment system are disclosed. A method includes: receiving data regarding an exhaust gas flow rate of exhaust gas; receiving data regarding a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) inlet temperature; determining an adsorption amount of soot in the exhaust aftertreatment system based on the exhaust gas flow rate of the exhaust gas and the SCR inlet temperature; comparing the adsorption amount of soot to a predefined adsorption amount limit; in response to the adsorption amount of soot exceeding the predefined adsorption amount limit; initiating an exhaust cleaning event to remove at least some accumulated soot in the exhaust aftertreatment system; receiving exhaust gas data during the exhaust cleaning event; determining a desorption amount of soot based on the exhaust gas data; comparing the desorption amount of soot to a predefined desorption limit; and ceasing the exhaust cleaning event based on the comparison.