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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)What is Biodiesel?Biodiesel is defined as: a fuel comprised of mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, designated B100. A “mono-alkyl ester” is the product of the reaction of a straight chain alcohol, such as methanol or ethanol, with a fat or oil (triglyceride) to form glycerol (glycerin) and the esters of long chain fatty acids. How is Biodiesel made?Biodiesel is made through a chemical process called transesterification, where the glycerin is separated from the fat or vegetable oil. The process leaves behind two products -- methyl esters (the chemical name for biodiesel) and glycerin (a valuable byproduct usually sold to be used in soaps and other products). (Source – National Biodiesel Board) How does Biodiesel compare to Petroleum Based Diesel in terms of performance?One of the major advantages of biodiesel is the fact that it can be used in existing engines and fuel injection equipment with little impact to operating performance. Biodiesel has a higher cetane number than most U.S. diesel fuel. In more than 50 million on-road miles and countless marine and off-road applications, biodiesel shows similar fuel consumption, horsepower, torque, and haulage rates as conventional diesel fuel. (Source – National Biodiesel Board) Can I use biodiesel in my existing diesel engine?Biodiesel can be operated in any diesel engine with little or no modification to the engine or the fuel system. If your car or truck is newer than 1993, then you should have no problem with compatibility. If your car or truck is older than 1993, there could be a compatibility problem with the natural rubber used in some gaskets. Consult the vehicle manufacturer in this case – alternative synthetic gasketing can replace the natural rubber materials. Ensure that only fuel meeting the biodiesel specification ASTM D 6751 is used. What about performance in cold temperatures?When properly managed, biodiesel blends can be used successfully in the coldest of climates. Biodiesel will gel in very cold temperatures, just as common #2 diesel does. Although pure biodiesel has a higher cloud point than #2 diesel fuel, typical blends of 20 percent biodiesel are managed with similar management techniques as #2 diesel.
Is it approved for use in the US?Biodiesel is registered as a fuel and fuel additive with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and meets clean diesel standards established by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Neat (100 percent) biodiesel has been designated as an alternative fuel by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the US Department of Transportation (DOT). (Source – National Biodiesel Board) How do biodiesel emissions compare to petroleum diesel?Biodiesel is the only alternative fuel to have fully completed the health effects testing requirements of the Clean Air Act. The use of biodiesel in a conventional diesel engine results in substantial reduction of unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter compared to emissions from diesel fuel. In addition, the exhaust emissions of sulfur oxides and sulfates (major components of acid rain) from biodiesel are essentially eliminated compared to diesel. (Source – National Biodiesel Board) Do I need special storage facilities?In general, the standard storage and handling procedures used for petroleum diesel can be used for biodiesel. The fuel should be stored in a clean, dry, dark environment. Acceptable storage tank materials include aluminum, steel, fluorinated polyethylene, fluorinated polypropylene and teflon. Copper, brass, lead, tin, and zinc should be avoided. (Source – National Biodiesel Board) Where can I purchase biodiesel for my vehicle?Biodiesel can be made available anywhere in the US. The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) maintains a list of registered fuel marketers. A current list is available on the biodiesel web site at www.biodiesel.org or by calling the NBB at (800) 841-5849. |