Course: BFM 202 Biodiesel Production

Unit 15 Lab

Lab

BFM202 unit 15 lab WVO

Biodiesel Trainer

Set up the Biodiesel Trainer

The Biodiesel Trainer can make a 26 gallon batch of biodiesel in approximately 13 hours. The system is automated and all we need to do is just add vegetable oil (or a feedstock of choice) and pre-measured chemicals.

In this lab we will be using Waste Vegetable Oil (WVO) or our feedstock.

Part I

- Start reaction
- Let the biodiesel trainer do the work
- Wait until the glycerol has separated and settled.

Part II

- Drain the glycerol
- Perform quality checks on our samples.

Using the Biodiesel Trainer we will make a larger batch of biodiesel (up to 26 gallons).

Equipment/supply list:

- Biodiesel Trainer
- 26 gallons of waste vegetable oil
- KOH
- Methanol
- Sulfuric Acid

Safety specific to this lab:

- Read and review the Biodiesel Trainer operator’s manual.
- Review precautions for adding chemicals.
- Wear safety goggles and gloves.
- Ensure proper ventilation
- Control/Eliminate possible ignition sources.
- Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) is corrosive - safety gloves and safety goggles must be used when handling to prevent contact with skin and eyes.
- Methanol is flammable so control or eliminate all potential ignition sources.
- All containers should be labeled and be covered when not in use.

We will be performing various quality checks on the batch of biodiesel that we make to see if it will meet ASTM standards.

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