Biodiesel stands up to harsh winter conditions
Last winter struck much of the United States with extreme cold and plenty of snow. These harsh weather conditions put biodiesel to the test – one it easily passed.
“Over the years, biodiesel has rapidly improved and evolved as a fuel source,” says Lisa Pedderson of MEG Corp, a Minnesota-based fuel-consulting firm that operates a helpline for biodiesel users. “Producers, retailers and consumers are confident in biodiesel’s quality, especially having seen it perform strongly during last year’s harsh winter months.”
Severe cold causes problems for any diesel fuel, but biodiesel blended into diesel fuel doesn’t make such problems more likely. Typically, problems with diesel fuel in winter months originate from other sources.
“I often hear concerns about fuel gelling,” Pedderson says. “Many people are actually experiencing icing. High water concentration in fuel can lead to water-logged fuel filters. When the temperature of the filter gets below the 32°F, the water freezes and blocks the flow of fuel through the filter.
Pedderson says proper planning, tank maintenance and storage during the winter can maximize diesel performance. Using a lower-percentage biodiesel blend, checking storage tanks for water and making sure vents and seals are secure, and utilizing a winterized fuel can lessen the chance of clogged filters or gelling.
“A clogged filter can also be the result of paraffin wax,” explains Pedderson. “Paraffin is a naturally occurring component of diesel. When the temperature of fuel is at or below its cloud point (the point at which the wax crystals first appear), paraffin material can drop out and collect on the bottom of the tank and plug the filter. There are additives that keep the paraffin suspended in the fuel so it will flow through the fuel system. It will make the fuel look milky in color. Paraffin wax is not a biodiesel problem.”
Source : unitedsoybean.org