FAQs
- What is biodiesel?
- Is biodiesel safe to use?
- Is biodiesel the same as raw vegetable oil?
- Can I use biodiesel in my existing diesel engine without modification?
- Can I mix biodiesel with petrodiesel?
- What are the benefits of biodiesel?
- Are there any problems with biodiesel?
- Where can I get biodiesel?
- Do I need special storage facilities?
- I have heard that a gradual increase in biodiesel percentage in my diesel fuel is the best way to introduce biodiesel to my vehicle. Is this true?
- How is biodiesel made?
- What is the environmental impact of using biodiesel?
- Will using biodiesel affect my engine warranty?
- Is biodiesel better for my engine?
Biodiesel is the name of a clean-burning alternative fuel that does not contain petroleum. Biodiesel is defined as mono-alkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats for use in diesel engines. Biodiesel refers to the pure fuel before blending with diesel fuel. Biodiesel blends are denoted as, "BXX" with "XX" representing the percentage of biodiesel contained in the blend (ie: B20 is 20% biodiesel, 80% petroleum diesel).
Yes. Biodiesel is biodegradable, nontoxic and essentially free of sulfur and aromatics.
No! Fuel-grade biodiesel must be produced to strict industry specifications in order to insure proper performance. Raw vegetable oil cannot meet biodiesel fuel specifications, it is not registered with the EPA and it is not a legal motor fuel.
Yes. Biodiesel can be used in any diesel engine (compression-ignition) with no modifications.
Yes. Biodiesel can be used in pure form (B100) or may be blended with petroleum diesel at any concentration in most modern diesel engines.
Biodiesel produces a cleaner-smelling exhaust. Some users have compared it to the smell of French fries or popcorn. Biodiesel also will reduce emissions, provide a cleaner burning exhaust, improve lubrication, improve cetane levels, and help clean injectors, fuel lines, pumps and tanks. It is also safer to store and transport since it has a higher flash point than traditional diesel and is classified only as combustible, not flammable or explosive.
Also, because it is a domestically produced and renewable fuel, biodiesel is a compliance method under the federal Energy Policy Act. In fact, it's the least-cost, easiest to use compliance method for fleets subject to those requirements.
Biodiesel will degrade natural rubber gaskets and hoses in vehicles (mostly found in vehicles manufactured before 1992), although these tend to wear out naturally and most likely will have already been replaced with Viton which is nonreactive to biodiesel. Biodiesel's higher lubricity index compared to petrodiesel is an advantage and can contribute to longer fuel injector life.
Biodiesel is a better solvent than petrodiesel and has been known to break down deposits of residue in the fuel lines of vehicles that have previously been run on petroleum. Fuel filters may become clogged with particulates if a quick transition to pure biodiesel is made, as biodiesel “cleans” the engine in the process.
It is, therefore, recommended to change the fuel filter within 600-800 miles after first switching to a biodiesel blend. At some point after switching to biodiesel, you may experience symptoms of a clogged fuel filter (i.e., trouble starting, coughing, smoke, poor fuel economy, loss of power). It is best to always keep an extra filter on hand in case you need it. After fuel filters are replaced normal engine operation will continue. Depending on the amount of residue and deposits, fuel filters will have to be changed until fuel system is completely cleaned.
In Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe, counties contact Sol Atlantic Biodiesel LLC to provide your Biodiesel needs. You can reach us at (305) 698-3679 or email us at solatlanticbiodiesel@hotmail.com
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.
have heard that a gradual increase in biodiesel percentage in my diesel fuel is the best way to introduce biodiesel to my vehicle. Is this true?
No, this is not true, although, it is a popular myth. There are no scientific reasons to perform a gradual increase in biodiesel. Any blend of biodiesel and diesel can be used in any diesel engine.
Biodiesel is made through a chemical process called transesterification whereby the glycerin is separated from the fat or vegetable oil. The process leaves behind two products -- mono-alkyl esters (the chemical name for biodiesel) and glycerin (a valuable byproduct usually sold to be used in soaps and other products).
Biodiesel is as non-toxic as table salt and biodegrades four times faster than conventional diesel. Biodiesel therefore presents a much smaller risk in the case of spills in marine and other sensitive environments. It is cleaner burning and does not contribute additional Co2 to the atmosphere when burned.
The use of biodiesel does not void parts and materials workmanship warranties of any engine manufacturer. This is prohibited by the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act.
For complete manufacturers' statements, please visit www.biodiesel.org.
The switch to low-sulfur diesel fuel has caused most Original Engine Manufacturers (OEMs) to switch to components that are also suitable for use with biodiesel. Older diesel engines may use natural rubber parts which may need to be replaced with Viton A parts.
Yes. Biodiesel promotes longer engine life. Trials with a Mercedes Benz engine in the testing stand at Porsche Ag, determined that using 100% Biodiesel resulted in a 60% reduction in engine wear and tear, compared to normal operation using regular diesel fuel.
It offers superior upper engine lubricity.
Its excellent solvent property rids the fuel system of diesel residue.
