If you didn’t know, biodiesel is made through a chemical process that turns fats or oils into fatty acid methyl esters, also known as FAME. This process is known as transesterification, and it creates fuel that is free of all impurities while meeting strict quality requirements. Even though biofuel has many benefits, you still need to handle and store it in specific conditions.
You can use this renewable and clean-burning alternative in diesel engines without altering it. However, you need to manage it properly to maintain its quality and effectiveness. This blog will discuss how you can maintain fuel cleanliness in biofuel tanks.
How Can You Maintain Fuel Cleanliness in Biofuel Tanks?
- Cleanliness: You must clean the biodiesel storage tanks regularly to prevent sediments, microbial growth, and other contaminants from rapidly accumulating over time. Finally, ensure tanks are thoroughly dried after cleaning and refilling. Routine clean-up can help you maintain the purity and quality of fuel while preventing potential clogging.
- Filtration: You need to install a filtration system like Njord Mobile Tank to remove particulate matter and water from biodiesel during storage and transfer. A filtration system will help you filter contaminants to prevent contamination and deterioration. Also, don’t forget to keep an eye on the filter and replace it regularly to maintain fuel quality.
- Inspection: You should inspect biodiesel storage tanks regularly to find signs of leakage, corrosion, and contamination. During inspections, you can check for any visible damage or wear and tear and also look for unusual odours or discolouration. This way, you can address any issues that require your attention before they can cause any big trouble.
What Factors Affect Biodiesel Storage?
A lot of factors can affect your biofuel, even when you are only storing it. Here are some of the main reasons:
- Storage Temperature: Since biodiesel has a greater cloud point which means that it gels at a higher temperature. Hence, you need to store the biodiesel at a higher cloud point, especially if you are in a cold region. You can store it at an ideal temperature range of 4 to 21 degrees Celsius.
- Tank Material: When storing the biodiesel, make sure that the tank is made up of appropriate materials to avoid any unnecessary reactions. Materials include fibreglass, aluminium, fluorinated polyethene, and stainless steel. The materials that react with the biodiesel or can contaminate it include uncoated mild steel, copper, brass, tin, lead and zinc.
- Water Contamination: One of the main contaminants of biodiesel is water, which can result in fuel deterioration and clogged filters due to microbial growth. Hence, you need to use watertight tanks to store biodiesel so it can reduce the amount of water contamination. You can also regularly inspect and drain water from tanks and cover tank vents to keep the moisture out.
- Light and Oxygen: If your biodiesel gets exposed to light and oxygen, the oxidation process will accelerate. This will lead to the formation of acids and sediments. So, when you store biodiesel, make sure that the tank is sealed and opaque to reduce the exposure to these elements.