Cold Soak Filtration Test Mandated For Biodiesel Testing

The most recent testing requirement for biodiesel fuel testing is the cold soak filtration test. The procedure was added to the Astm method in October 2008. It is designed to heighten Syn. Clearness standards in alternative fuels for consumers.

Biodiesel fuel is a non-petroleum based fuel that is made by the transesterification of vegetable oil or animal fat. It can be used to run unmodified diesel motor vehicles. It differs from level vegetable oil or waste vegetable oil, which need the use of a converted engine.

Blends of biodiesel and quarterly diesel fuel are ready around the world, and the fuel is graded with a "B factor" to indicate how much biodiesel is gift in the mix. For example, a mix containing 20 percent biodiesel is rated B20. In its pure form, B100 may need motor modifications to be made to the car to prevent long-term carrying out problems, but it presents a marvelous alternative for people concerned in reducing their dependence on fossil fuels.

In the past, substandard biodiesel has been known to precipitate material out of clarification when exposed to cold temperatures. If a solid material were to precipitate out of the biofuel when it is used in an engine, it can lead to unabridged damage. Therefore, legislators took activity to prevent such substandard stock from production it to the market.

The standards are established by an assosication known as the Astm, otherwise known as the American community for Testing and Materials. For years, the Astm has set the standards by which the fuel source is deemed eligible for the marketplace.

The Astm recently added the cold soak filtration test to prevent the precipitation of solid materials in inferior biodiesel during cold weather. But what is the cold soak filtration test, exactly? In scientific terms, it measures time in seconds it takes for cold soaked biodiesel to pass through two 0.8 micron filters. It also measures the number of particulate matter collected on the filter.

This works to ensure that end users will not have clogged filters or worse problems with their engines when using biodiesel in cold temperatures. It also ensures that producers will avow a high level of brand integrity as guaranteed by their customers' pleasure with their product.

The transesterification of vegetable oil was performed as early as 1853, long before the diesel motor was even functional. Since then, biodiesel applications and standards have come a long way since then. In order to ensure that the fuels you are manufacturing are meeting the most recent regulations passed by the Astm, it is foremost to subject them to testing.

A lab trained in the cold soak filtration test, as well as the many other tests mandated by the Astm, will ensure you offer the best stock possible. Maintaining high quality standards is the key to customer satisfaction. Be sure your end stock is up to snuff by employing a trustable lab to test your products and ensure they are held to today's truthful testing standards.