/// Guest post by contributor Jon Scharingson, Renewable Energy Group
When properly managed, high-quality biodiesel blended fuels are successful in the coldest of climates. Blends of 5 percent and below have virtually no impact on cold weather operability. But, just like No. 2 petroleum diesel, biodiesel can gel in very cold temperatures.
So, it is important to understand the cold flow properties of both petroleum diesel and biodiesel when blending fuel for winter use. Biodiesel producers conduct tests to ensure each gallon produced meets or exceeds industry ASTM standards. The results are listed on the Certificate of Analysis (COA) that is provided with each shipment of biodiesel.
Among the specs listed is cloud point. The cloud point is described as a conservative temperature for the point at which biodiesel will begin to freeze ― not solidify, but begin to become cloudy.
Renewable Energy Group, Inc. recommends that our customers store biodiesel at 10 degrees above the cloud point. Underground tanks will typically remain in the 50 degree Fahrenheit range through the winter months, while above ground tanks may need to be heated or insulated just to be safe.
The blend percentage should also be considered when examining cloud points. Traditional diesel fuel has a lower cloud point than biodiesel; thus, when blending at a B5 level, the cloud point of the blended fuel will be reflective of the diesel and biodiesel mixture.
Contact your biodiesel producer or supplier for more information on how best to manage biodiesel blends this winter.
/// Read more guest posts on biodiesel posts here.
{Guest Post} Guest post provided by NATSO Chairman's Circle member Jon Scharingson, Renewable Energy Group. Renewable Energy Group® is a leading North American biodiesel producer with a nationwide distribution and logistics system. With more than 210 million gallons of owned/operated annual production capacity at biorefineries across the country, REG is a proven biodiesel partner in the distillate marketplace. Learn more about Renewable Energy Group.
The opinions and advice given by guest post contributors are not necessarily those of NATSO Inc. The posts should not be considered legal advice. Qualified professionals should be sought regarding advice and questions specific to your circumstances.
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