Vol. 03: Making Biodiesel
The best way to learn how to make your own backyard biodiesel is to start with a one-liter batch. It's easy to make a small batch that will work in any diesel engine. You won't need any special equipment--an old juice bottle will serve as the "reactor" vessel--and on such a small scale, you can quickly refine your technique and perform further experiments.
By Rob Elam
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Backyard Biodiesel on Make: Projects
The Energy Self-Sufficiency Newsletter
This article is partly based on a series of articles by Maria "Mark" Alovert that first appeared here.
Gly-Tek
To test for the presence of glycerin, you can use the Gly-Teck test kit, which detects leaked anti-freeze in motor oil.
Recycling Sciences
High-volume operations can buy a $31,000 glycerin-purification distiller here, which will convert dirty biodiesel glycerin into nice, clear, commercially valuable glycerin.
Mark Alovert's site
veggieavenger.com
Homebrewing forum.
biodiesel.infopop.cc
Another homebrewing forum.
biodieselnow.com
Biodiesel policy and activism forum.
journeytoforever.org
Biodiesel processor designs and other info.
nbb.org
Biodiesel stations and industry info.
tdiclub.com
VW diesel forum.
propelfuels.com
Setting up a commercial biodiesel pump in your town.
Alternative Energy Videos
Videos about alternative energy, including biodiesel, available for rent from technicalvideorental.com
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The process of making biodiesel requires a permit from any city or county. In addition to the fire department, a building department will require a change of occupancy for the manufacturing of biodiesel since manufacturing is the process (or use). A change of occupancy from a residential facility to a manufacturing plant (the garage in most cases) is not worth the end cost associated with such a change.
The process includes product that can deteriorate bone, in addition to, waste products that require permits to have and dispose from any Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) and the local fire department.
Although a vary creative idea, making biodiesel in the garage or backyard requires permits and fees that outweigh the benefit of lower cost diesel.
Thanks for reading, TomPosted by tdodaro on January 02, 2009 at 12:55:41 Pacific Time
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