Are You Storing Your Biodiesel Properly?
With the warmer months now upon us a lot of us will be producing and storing biodiesel again. Your storage container should be considered another important piece of biodiesel fuel equipment. Choosing the right storage container and conditions will help you store your fuel safer and for longer periods of time.
The life of biodiesel can be increased if it is stored in a container with limited "head space." Also the biodiesel containers should be protected from the weather and direct sunlight. Long term storage in damp conditions of a partially filled container can lead to condensation. Top up your fuel container often, even if that means blending it with another batch of fuel. This should be done especially in the rainy winter months or when the fuel is not being used. Corrosion of metal fuel tanks can occur due to the condensed moisture that accumulates.
Water condensation also creates a good environment for the growth of bacteria and fungi which feed on the biodiesel hydrocarbons. These organisms accumulate and grow over periods of time and resemble a film or slime. Because biodiesel is such a strong solvent it can cause the slime to separate from the tank walls. This free floating slime can clog fuel filters which in turn will cause the engine to stop suddenly.
There are several products available for sale called biocides that can kill or prevent this growth. Biocides are chemicals that kill bacteria and fungi that are growing in the fuel tanks. The biocides will not interfere with the combustion of the fuel or effect the way the engine operates. You must remember that biocides are very toxic and should only be used as the manufacturer recommends.
With proper precautions your biodiesel can be stored algae free and for long periods of time. Sunlight and water are your fuels number one enemy; by keeping them away you keep your fuel quality high.
The life of biodiesel can be increased if it is stored in a container with limited "head space." Also the biodiesel containers should be protected from the weather and direct sunlight. Long term storage in damp conditions of a partially filled container can lead to condensation. Top up your fuel container often, even if that means blending it with another batch of fuel. This should be done especially in the rainy winter months or when the fuel is not being used. Corrosion of metal fuel tanks can occur due to the condensed moisture that accumulates.
Water condensation also creates a good environment for the growth of bacteria and fungi which feed on the biodiesel hydrocarbons. These organisms accumulate and grow over periods of time and resemble a film or slime. Because biodiesel is such a strong solvent it can cause the slime to separate from the tank walls. This free floating slime can clog fuel filters which in turn will cause the engine to stop suddenly.
There are several products available for sale called biocides that can kill or prevent this growth. Biocides are chemicals that kill bacteria and fungi that are growing in the fuel tanks. The biocides will not interfere with the combustion of the fuel or effect the way the engine operates. You must remember that biocides are very toxic and should only be used as the manufacturer recommends.
With proper precautions your biodiesel can be stored algae free and for long periods of time. Sunlight and water are your fuels number one enemy; by keeping them away you keep your fuel quality high.
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posted by SolveItQuick at
5:50 AM
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