Process Overview 

Since many of you are new to making Biodiesel, and might be wondering just what all is involved in making Biodiesel with our processors, we have put together this simple overview of the process.

Here's a simplified version of how you use our processors to make Biodiesel. (note it gets much easier to do than it looks below)

Steps -

1. Pre-filter the oil with the supplied barrel pre-filter.

2. Heat the oil using the supplied heating element & thermostat, then turn it off and let it cool down. (This moves any water in the oil to the bottom, and you draw off the top avoiding the waterier oil)

3. After the water has settled out, re-heat the oil and transfer to your processor.  Do this by using the intake hose & pump on the processor.

4. Run the processor for 10 minutes to mix the oil well to ensure an accurate titration test.

5. Test the oil by doing a titration test. (all supplies and instructions are included, except distilled water, lye or KOH, and isopropyl alcohol).

6. Calculate the lye & methanol needed using the enclosed Biodiesel calculator.

7. Mix the methanol & lye in the smaller methoxide mixing tank. (Uses an air driven mixing pump).

8. Start the processor pump again and set timer for recommended time.  (usually 1 1/2 hrs but it depends on oil temp.   Our guide makes it simple)

9. Add the methoxide to the circulating oil.

10. Then just let the timer shut the pump off after the set time, and let it settle for the recommended time. Like magic, after about an hour, you'll see a distinct layer of glycerin begin to form on the bottom of the tank.  You now have Biodiesel, but to make high quality Biodiesel, it needs washed, and dried.

11. Next drain the glycerin out the bottom drain using the valves on the bottom of tank.

12. Next do a mist washing using the supplied misters.  Just hook a hose up for about 1 - 2 hours and your done.

13. The water will settle to the bottom as it's heavier than the biodiesel.  Now drain that water & dispose of it.

14. Do another mist washing, but leave the water in the bottom of the tank this time.

15. Add the bubbler to the bottom of the tank and run it for about 1 hour.  

16. Then drain that water & add more.

17. Repeat the bubble washing 2-3 more times and your done.

18. Dry the biodiesel (everything you need is included, except a collection barrel). This is very easy actually.  You set a few valves, turn on the pump, and let it circulate for a few hours on its on.  Complete details in our book.

That's it.  You now have clean, high quality biodiesel.

FAQ about making biodiesel

Where do I get the oil from?

You can use new or used oil, but the new oil will drive you cost up to about the same as petro diesel unless you take advantage of the tax credits.  Used oil is almost always free.  Many restaurants will be glad to have you haul it off as they probably pay to have it hauled off now.

What is the Efficiency of the processors?

The general rule is that with lower titrating oil, if you put in 20 gallons of oil, you get back 20 gallons of biodiesel, or slightly less.  But it's pretty close to a 95-98% return.

How much water is used to wash the biodiesel?

The ratio is about 1 gallon of water to 1 gallon of biodiesel produced.  But this varies based on the oil quality, etc.  But that's a good guideline.

How much glycerin do I get out?

About 22% of the volume of oil put in.

What about the durability of these processors?

Our tanks are made from Tanks are manufactured from medium density polyethylene with U.V. inhibitors and are rated for temperatures of 140 degrees.  These tanks will last a very long time when used properly.  The only item you may need to replace occasionally are the hoses since the methoxide and heat will deteriorate them over time.  And we guarantee the pump your kit comes with for 6 months.   And since our hoses are about twice as thick as the ones you would find locally, they will last much longer anyway.

How much will the biodiesel cost after all expenses are figured in?

Well that depends.  If you buy your chemicals in bulk, you can make it for as little as about 55 cents a gallon.  But an average price is about 70 cents a gallon, still way less than at the pump, and a much better fuel.  

Do I need to heat the oil?

Yes, heat is very important, so we provide a heating element you can install in a 55 gallon barrel to pre-heat the oil.  And our tanks and lines are insulated so the heat will be retained.

How do I get the oil to the processor?

We have it setup so that you can use the processor pump to transfer oil into the processor from your pre-heating barrel.

How much actual hands on time is involved?

1 1/2 - 3 hours average.

This sounds confusing.  Is it really difficult to learn?

There is a lot to read when you are getting started, and it will sound confusing.  But once you make 2-3 batches you'll understand why you do what you do, and how it works.  Then it gets pretty easy.  So don't worry, it's only confusing in beginning.

Will you help me with any problems I have?

We include free phone support for most all kits and processors we sell.  See your item description for full details.  Plus we offer extended email support on all kits and processors.

What about winter performance? Can't I just add a diesel winterizer?

Biodiesel gels at a temperature about 20 degrees warmer than winterized Diesel. (temperature depends on the oil you use, etc).  So in the winter you may have to add 30-70% Petro Diesel to lower the temperature at which it will gel.  So far diesel anti-gel additives don't work very well on biodiesel.  They do help some, but they work much better if you also add regular petro diesel.

Do you ship to foreign countries?

Coming soon.  Please inquire for pricing.

I still have a question you didn't answer -

You can email us with questions by clickin on our Contact Page or call 888-521-6696 extension 5