Reader Question: Using WVO for 100% Biodiesel
Tuesday January 1, 2008
As we continue to welcome the coming of 2008 by sharing a series readers' questions from 2007, we have another question from John:
"I believe I am the first in my industry to use biodiesel (B20), and when I figure out how to make it myself I will be going to 100%. Again, in your opinion, is there a problem using WVO and going 100%."
Hi John,
No problem using WVO (waste vegetable oil) to make BD, but using 100% BD can cause problems under certain conditions. This is the answer I sent you before: "Whether or not you can run B100 depends on your vehicle. If you have and older diesel, one built no later than the mid 1980s, you can probably get away with 100% BD. If your vehicle is newer with computer controls and sensors, then it’s probably not a good idea. B100 has a high oxygen content because of the high amount of alcohol (usually 20%) in the fuel. This can throw off the sensors, especially the O2 (oxygen) sensor and cause drive-ability problems. Another point to ponder is the cooler weather issue. Biodiesel can start to thicken at about 40 degrees F. I know you said that it rarely gets below 50, but your climate is right on the threshold. If you would run B100, then your fuel would be that much more vulnerable to thickening and gelling."
What I would do if I were you, is experiment with steadily higher ratios of BD until you run into problems. You’ll likely be able to run up to B50 or slightly higher without any issues, but be patient and careful. It’s tempting to want to just dump B100 in and go, but restraint is usually rewarded.
Good luck, and keep us posted,
Scott
"I believe I am the first in my industry to use biodiesel (B20), and when I figure out how to make it myself I will be going to 100%. Again, in your opinion, is there a problem using WVO and going 100%."
Hi John,
No problem using WVO (waste vegetable oil) to make BD, but using 100% BD can cause problems under certain conditions. This is the answer I sent you before: "Whether or not you can run B100 depends on your vehicle. If you have and older diesel, one built no later than the mid 1980s, you can probably get away with 100% BD. If your vehicle is newer with computer controls and sensors, then it’s probably not a good idea. B100 has a high oxygen content because of the high amount of alcohol (usually 20%) in the fuel. This can throw off the sensors, especially the O2 (oxygen) sensor and cause drive-ability problems. Another point to ponder is the cooler weather issue. Biodiesel can start to thicken at about 40 degrees F. I know you said that it rarely gets below 50, but your climate is right on the threshold. If you would run B100, then your fuel would be that much more vulnerable to thickening and gelling."
What I would do if I were you, is experiment with steadily higher ratios of BD until you run into problems. You’ll likely be able to run up to B50 or slightly higher without any issues, but be patient and careful. It’s tempting to want to just dump B100 in and go, but restraint is usually rewarded.
Good luck, and keep us posted,
Scott
Comments
I have a 2000 international 4700 box truck for business in rhode island. I am looking to cut overhead costs and create my own biodiesel from home a kit with wvo. I havent found anyone with the knowledge to tell me if i can run b50-b100 without damaging my engine. It wouldnt be worth it financially to purchase everything i need for the biodiesel conversion if i cant run the truck with 50% or higher biodiesel. Can you help me? Also where can i find the methanol and other chemicals to produce the biodiesel? Thank you Kevin Jenkins woonsocket, ri