The Role of Technology and Economics In Addressing The Problems with Biodiesel

by Mark Ward Senior - NPN Magazing March 2012

Biodiesel has come a long way on the quality front since it was first brought to the market. Manufacturers that diligently follow guidelines set down by the Nation Biodiesel Broad make quality products that are up to the general quality experienced by more traditional fuels. However, there are some specific issues with biodiesel that require extra attention and if the supply source is less consistent in quality precautions can be taken to minimize any issues that might arise.

To understand the situation it helps to being at the beginning. “Biodiesel is a transester of natural oil such as soy bean, rapeseed, canola or meat tallow,” says Peter Guerra, vice president of marketing for FPPF Chemical Company Inc., a Buffalo based maker of diesel fuel additives. “But natural oils won’t work in an engine. You must remove the glycerine and turn the product into an ester.”

New Engines, New ULSD & New Super Fine Fuel Filters
Could Mean New Problems For Truckers This Winter 

In cold weather, fuel filter plugging with super fine filters is and will be a major concern for all truck drivers and off-road equipment operators. In addition to the usual icing and fuel gelling that occurs with diesel equipment with older engines and higher micron filters, we now face the numerous tasks of keeping the new trucks rolling. The fine filters, high temperature engines, asphaltenes, biodiesel and ULSD make our job even more difficult.

Engine additives are more than an option

Today's engine additives and treatments address crucial issues

By David Hubbard

Concern for the environment and rising costs have brought trade offs in fuel quality and function. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandate for the use of ultra low sulfur fuel (ULSF) has created other problems through its lack of lubricity. Removing the sulfur oxide compounds depletes the needed lubricity compounds, and the drier diesel fuel adversely affects the fuel pump and fuel injectors. Typical problems include difficult starting, engine chatter and shutdowns. loss of power and premature wear on parts.