Biodiesel Rulez!!! [ARCHIVED]

[biogas.works]

biogas gerry: your comments seem to focus more on the effects of BD on fuel consumption. How about cleaner emissions?

PLEASE NOTE my statement "slightly lower GHG emissions" means cleaner emissions:

Although 1% CME will give slightly lower GHG emissions, we cannot afford to waste our limited funds and resources.

BioDiesels (and specially Coconut Methyl Ester or CME) produce less emissions. The lower blend of 0.5% CME that I propose also reduces emissions but slightly lesser than 1.0%.

My comments focused on fuel consumption because the Biofuels Act was LEGISLATED PRIMARILY to reduce our dependence on imported petrodiesel. This is supposed to be achieved by increased mileage or fuel savings. If LONG-TERM fuel savings from 1% CME cannot be sustained (as I observed once during my tests) or if the fuel savings from 1% CME is lower than what 0.5% CME would deliver long term -- the objectives of the BioFuel will not be achieved and we motorists will be paying expensively for something that does a poorer job.

Biodiesel Fuel
The problem, they say, lies with the fuel’s nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and their contribution to the formation of ground-level ozone in Texas’ eastern counties.

BioDiesels are made from different feedstocks. The USA primarily makes it from Soya Oil which has much poorer properties than CME as evidenced by lower fuel mileages and HIGHER Nitrogen Oxide emissions. If I remember correctly, CME produces very minute or no NOx emissions.

I dont care if using 0.5% CME and even 100% CME has the "same or lower" fuel mileage. Garyg is right. There are other things to consider.
I want to see 100% BD (locally produced) used in our vehicles. We will then be less susceptible to foreign dictates.

The BioFuels Act mandated 1% CME because it is VERY EXPENSIVE. At retail prices, CME costs >100 pesos per liter and using it at 100% does not mean cars will produce ZERO emissions. In fact, 100% BD (or CME) will not even reduce emissions by 50% -- emissions are REDUCED to smaller quantities but they are not eliminated.

We all want to HELP our coconut farmers. Compared to just using 1% CME because we were to told to do so, we would be better off finding out for ourselves if that is true or not. It would be very embarassing if foreigners tell us in the future that 1% CME is not good and 0.5% CME is better -- specially in the light of my findings.

As to helping our farmers, 0.5% CME helps them better. This means we will only use half of what was previously mandated. The other half can be EXPORTED to generate foreign income that hopefully lead to higher coconut or copra prices.

As a BioDiesel than can sustain >10% fuel savings on top of excellent emission redictions, many countries will be willing to buy CME even at premium prices.

To prove that 0.5% CME is good, simply put half of what you are presently using (if you are using 1%) or make the computation if you are using a higher blend. Compare your fuel mileage now with the new blend. If the Fuel Mileage does not fall or drop then my premise is correct.

I predict your fuel mileage may even increase with 0.5% CME. Thank you for your replies and comments. I hope I was able to clarify them.

[garyq]

Thanks for your comments. Can you comment on the ff:

<My comments focused on fuel consumption because the Biofuels Act was LEGISLATED PRIMARILY to reduce our dependence on imported petrodiesel. This is supposed to be achieved by increased mileage or fuel savings.>

Paki clarify lang eto bro. Are you saying that the Biofuel Act aims to reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuel by mandating B1 on diesel fuel to "increase mileage or fuel savings" on our vehicles? Palagay ko hindi ata eto yung spirit nung batas. IMHO by mandating B1 on diesel fuel, market will be generated (or demand) for this indigenous fuel thereby encouraging firms to produce the supply. This way we will reduce the total import volume. Eventually kasi the retail value will go down if supply goes up further opening the market. Sa opinion ko bro and this is based on 2 years of using BD and all the studies I've read, increased mileage (km/liter) is a not noticeable. Sa personal ko naman na experience on my 4JG2 engine, B10 reduced the opacity result by 50%. I had it tested before and after putting B10 on my Trooper. Of course experience ko eto and it is true to my engine, the BD I used and all the parameters true at that time. I can't say this result will happen for all engine and BD for that matter. Magandang history study yung nangyari sa Brazil for the ethanol production. FYI sa lahat, magkasabay tayo ng Brazil nag-explore ng possibility of using ethanol as alternative fuel back in the 70's. They pushed through with it. We stopped. Guess nyo how much ethanol they are using now? More than 5% of their total volume! Nasa BD na sila ngayon. Source? I forgot but it's nuts! I mean it will come from nutsParang Jatophra siguro.

Sa akin lang eto mga kapatid. Cleaner emissions dapat first "come-on" in using BD cause eto talaga yung result na proven na nakukuha. All the other results are secondary. Of course if BD goes mainstream then that's a result that will affect even the farmers in our far flung barrios. Para sa mga newbie: if you want to use B1, B5 or B10 or even B.5 then that's very good and it is a step in the right direction.

[OTEP]

Mga boss pasensya na kung ako ay magtatanong. Hindi ko kasi na-backread yung buong thread.

Malapit lang ako sa Philippine Coconut Authority (sa Commonwealth) and kakabukas lang nila ng Flying V station on their grounds. They are offering premixed BD. Ok na ba ito? Tamad kasi ako maghalo. :D

[BeetOls]

Hi Otep,

Yup i loaded a fulltank of it more than a week ago...and now i can't wait to fully consume what's left of it in my tank (after already loading with P500 worth of Petron diesel again); one of the noticeable change after loading with Flying V was noisier engine...i am not at all new to the use of biodiesel as i have tried it during the Senbel times and bioactiv as well...i did not get the same response i was expecting. Pumalya pa nga one time on one of those cold morning startups (cold weather) and this never happened before (except when my pump and nozzles were due for replacement/calib)...now the engine's running quite smoothly again and am expecting to improve more on my next fuel up.

Could be an insolated case though...

[MadMax]

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?...cs2_dec18_2006

Defer Bio-Fuels Law until after study, say transport groups
By Roy Pelovello

Only days after Congress passed the Bio-Fuels Act, bus and jeepney associations are already asking for the deferment or suspension of the law’s implementation until after an extensive study on the use of bio-diesel and ethanol by motor vehicles in the country.

The associations’ concerns were raised by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. who urged the government to look into the appeal to defer the mandatory use of ethanol and bio-diesel in motor vehicles.

The Bio-Fuels Act, which was passed recently by Congress, is expected to be signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo this month.

But, Pimentel said, leaders of the transport industry said the Bio-Fuels Act should ensure its promised long-term beneficial effects and continued livelihood of millions of Filipinos who depend on the transport industry.

“Bio-diesel is a relatively new technology necessitating the need for a more extensive, transparent and comprehensive technical evaluation on the use of Coconut Methyl Ester, or bio-diesel as an alternative source of fuel,” Pimentel said, citing the position of the transport industry leaders.

But Senator Edgardo Angara, who co-sponsored the measure, said the industry’s position was based on that of oil companies whom he accused of trying to sabotage the passage of the proposed Bio-Fuels Act when it was still being considered by Congress.

Angara cautioned oil companies from taking a short-sighted stance on the bill, saying this would be against national interest even as he noted that countries such as Brazil, India, China and Canada, have used bio-fuels extensively and oil companies did not oppose similar measures.

“So it would be really narrow-minded for any oil company in this country to oppose it even if it’s sub rosa—behind the scenes—because they would be found out anyway and, if found out to be true, it would be devastating to their reputation in the country,” he said.

Pimentel said the concerns of the transport industry will be addressed by the Department of Energy, which assured him that the government would implement the Bio-Fuels Act and not to prejudice anyone.

Pimentel said the government is emphasizing the development, production and use of bio-fuel, also called green fuel, not only to lessen the country’s dependence on oil but also to reduce air pollution.

Still, the senator stressed the importance of immediately implementing the Bio-Fuels Act, which he described as “the most important piece of legislation” passed by the 13th Congress.

He said he has information that at least 12 companies are ready to invest in the production of bio-fuels, lured by the tax privileges and other incentives offered by the new legislation.

The Bio-Fuels Act provides that all liquid fuels for motors and engines sold in the Philippines “shall contain locally produced bio-fuel components.” Within two years from the effectivity of the act, the annual total volume of gasoline fuel actually sold and distributed in the country should contain at least 5 percent bio-ethanol.

The amount of bio-ethanol in gasoline would be increased to 10 percent in four years after the law is passed as recommended by the National Bio-Fuels Board.

The act also provides that a minimum of 1 percent bio-diesel by volume would be blended into all diesel engine fuels sold in the country upon effectivity of the law’s implementing rules and regulations. This amount will be increased to 2 percent within two years.

[MadMax]

Flying V soars in biofuel field
BIZLINKS By Rey Gamboa
The Philippine Star 12/18/2006

http://philstar.com/philstar/NEWS200612180717.htm

Exerpts:

The move, expectedly, has translated into more converts among diesel users. With the way jeepney and taxi drivers are slowly but surely moving towards biodiesel use, no wonder the oil majors are reportedly lobbying for the deferment of the just-passed BioFuels Act for another year.

It would be tragic if our lawmakers will agree to postpone the implementation of the new law by another year. The fact that all government vehicles have been using biodiesel since 2004 (in response to a Presidential directive) surely is enough testimony that the CME-blended diesel fuel works.

Trivia: Rey Gamboa used to be the spokesman of Shell.

[biogas.works]

Paki clarify lang eto bro. Are you saying that the Biofuel Act aims to reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuel by mandating B1 on diesel fuel to "increase mileage or fuel savings" on our vehicles? Palagay ko hindi ata eto yung spirit nung batas. IMHO by mandating B1 on diesel fuel, market will be generated (or demand) for this indigenous fuel thereby encouraging firms to produce the supply. This way we will reduce the total import volume.

YES bro, the BIOFUELS ACT aims to reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuel by mandating B1 on diesel fuel to "increase mileage or fuel savings." The Act has three (3) objectives and this is ITS PRIMARY OBJECTIVE.

If a vehicle runs 10 km/L on Diesel and 12 km/L on B1, for every 240 kms traveled, FUEL CONSUMPTION will be 24 liters of Diesel but ONLY 20 liters of B1. This simple example reduces fuel consumption by 20%.

Read the BIOFUELS ACT OF 2006 known as Senate Bill No. 2226 (SBN-2226) at:
www.senate.gov.ph/bills/sbn-2226.pdf

In the USA where Soya BD produces less mileage, tax incentives are provided to offset additional cost to users. IF B1 Coconut Methyl Ester (CME) does not deliver any Fuel Savings, we should also get incentives specially because CME is actually more expensive compared to Soya BD which is made from waste.

Regarding better or lower emissions from BioFuels, I offer NO COMMENTS because I AGREE. The ability of BioFuels (both BioEthanol & BioDiesel made from any feedstock) to reduce GHG emissions is a well-established fact. And, this is TRUE even when BioFuel is used in small percentages. This means 0.5% CME will also give BETTER or LOWER emissions.

Defer Bio-Fuels Law until after study, say transport groups
By Roy Pelovello
Manila Standard 12/18/06
http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?...cs2_dec18_2006

Only days after Congress passed the Bio-Fuels Act, bus and jeepney associations are already asking for the deferment or suspension of the law’s implementation until after an extensive study on the use of bio-diesel and ethanol by motor vehicles in the country.

Flying V soars in biofuel field
BIZLINKS By Rey Gamboa
The Philippine Star 12/18/2006
http://philstar.com/philstar/NEWS200612180717.htm

Excerpts:

It would be tragic if our lawmakers will agree to postpone the implementation of the new law by another year. The fact that all government vehicles have been using biodiesel since 2004 (in response to a Presidential directive) surely is enough testimony that the CME-blended diesel fuel works.

Trivia: Rey Gamboa used to be the spokesman of Shell.

I agree with Sen. Angara and Mr. Gamboa that it will be TRAGIC to postpone or delay implementation of the BioFuels Act. My postings are not asking for this.

And my postings do not cover BioEthanol because this fuel is well-known. For the most part, we are even using (imported?) BioEthanol as used extensively in many other parts of the world. This is why Shell is selling E10 (at lower prices) even when only E5 or 5% BioEthanol is mandated?

My postings concern Coconut Methyl Ester (CME) because it is our BioDiesel (BD) and, after researching and testing other BioDiesels, I believe CME is an excellent and quite possibly “The Perfect BioDiesel.”

Unfortunately, research on CME is limited and not very thorough. While it was mandated for all government vehicles in 2004, there DOES NOT appear to be any scientific studies to support its ability to deliver long-term Fuel Economy benefits as envisioned by the BioFuels Act.

We should learn from the Canadian Canola BD experience as described in the Saskatoon BioBus II Final Report:
http://www.agwest.sk.ca/publications...ts/BPMay06.pdf
After using Canola BD for years, they conducted new research (published in April & May 2006) to determine “to a higher degree of precision” that the fuel economy benefits of lower 0.2% and 1% blends were better than 5% and now they use 2%.

If there are any indications, that 0.5% CME can produce long-term fuel mileage improvements that equal or exceed the performance of 1% CME, I propose it should be studied as it is a win-win situation.

As an export commodity, the ability of 0.5% CME to deliver sustainable Fuel Savings makes it a very valuable product. It will not hurt our fledgling coconut industry. Rather, it will make it a more vital and profitable in both the local and foreign markets.

As Section 8c of the BioFuels Act states that “ the minimum blend shall not be lowered within seven (7) years from the effectivity or full implementation of the mandated minimum blend”, we may never find out that the lower 0.5% CME blend is actually better. In time, some other countries will find out and they will tell us something we should have told them instead?

There is time to find out if 0.5% CME is better. Be creative. If you are using 1% CME now, just put half a tank of 1% CME Diesel next time and top-up with Diesel to get a 0.5% blend in your tank. Or put 10 liters of 1% CME and 10 liters of Diesel on a nearly empty tank. If your Fuel Mileage for 0.5% is the same as or better for 1% , then my observations are valid and WE SHOULD TELL the authorities and everyone else.

[garyq]

Bro thanks for posting the complete details nung BioFuel Act. Maganda yung objectives as laid out in Sec.2:

a) develop and utilize indigenous renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on imported oil;
b) mitigate toxic and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; and
c) increase rural employment and income.

Hopefully we stay on course coz' long term commitment talaga eto.

[biogas.works]

The first objective which states "to reduce dependence on imported oil" can only be achieved effectively with 1% CME if it produces improved mileage. This is not explained in the ACT but it was discussed extensively during Congessional and Senate deliberations.
I had planned to run simulated chassis dynamometer tests today to verify that 0.5% CME continues to perform better than 1% after running over 3,000 miles but couldn't.
Suffice to say for now, that my fuel mileage with 0.5% CME City Driving appears to be much better than 1%.

[paulbaguio]

Almost all Petron stations sell Chemrez's BioActive. BioActive is the brand name name of the biodiesel. It's B100 or 100% CME (CocoMethylEsther) Biodiesel. You can buy them in 500ml and 225ml bottles. Eto yung white/clear plastic rounded bottles with green print. Meron kasing mga old batches that were released na me kanto na tig 1 liter. I would not recommend it kasi old batches/stock na yung mga yon.

Kung magpapa karga ka ng 20 liters na diesel, lagyan mo ng 1 liter ng BioActive. Yan ang B5 mix or 5% Regular Diesel+Biodiesel mix. Ako ang sinusunod ko is P500 diesel=225ml BioActive (smallest bottle).

As for the Isuzu warranty, I suggest that you call your service advisor for a formal or written statement. Most manufacturers allow 5% Biodiesel mix (b5). HTH.

Hi guys,
Been following the threads.. I notice that as far as biodiesel brands are concern, I hear about Chemrez. I'm from Cebu and one of the brands that was locally developed here is called DMP (abbreviation for Diesel Mileage Power) product distributed and developed by: Green Evolution Lubricants (IPI Philippines)based here in Cebu Philippines. Currently they display this in all Caltex and Shell Station as well as in Nissan, Mitsubishi, Kia and Isuzu Casa's.

I have yet to confirm the price per 500ml, but here are the specs and their write-ups in their ads:

Flash point: 240 C (Safer handling and storage)
Cetane Number: 60 (Improve ignition and acceleration, diesel is 51)
Sulfur: 0.01% (Low emission, diesel is 0.05%)
Oxygen : 11% (Complete combustion, diesel is 0 %)
Kinematic Viscosity: 3.6 cst (Improves/Refines diesel fuel, diesel is 4 cst)
Lubricity: 7,000+gms (Maintains fuel line, ports and pumps, diesel is 3,800gms)
T90 temperature: 316 C (Improved range of volatility, diesel is 360 C)

"DMP is a plant-oil based methyl-ester with negligible sulfur content. It is known throughout the world as biodiesel because its carbon chain resembles that of petroleum diesel except that it contains oxygen allowing for better combustion. Biodiesel's superior lubricating properties reduce wear on diesel engines.

DMP is fuel, and not just an additive. Mixing 2% into conventional diesel fuel ensures adequate fuel lubricity, eliminating present concerns with petroleum - based diesel fuel and other (petroleum - based) additives.

DMP studies and test show that at 1% there is marked improvement: noticeable in the engine's performance as increase in power, smoother acceleration and less vibration with less exhaust emission. Still, blends of more than 50% have shown only better performance with no negative effects even in long-term (6 months or more) applications. DMP is very safe for all diesel powered engines. There is no danger of blending too much or too little DMP into your fuel.

The WORLD Fuel Charter published by all automotive manufacturers worldwide, recommended blends of up to 5% for daily use. But DMP's concentrated formula treats more, so you can start with 2%. Once carbon and gum deposits are flushed out, your engine will regain power and exhaust emissions all but disappear.

Recommended Fuel: DMP Ratio: 1:50
Example: DMP of 500ml to Diesel of 25 liters, or add 2% DMP to your Fuel Diesel.

Initial treatment (first time):
As DMP cleans your fuel line, your fuel filter might become smothered or clogged by the dissolved dirt deposits. check fuel filter after the first treatment."

I have not tried this, but wanted to make sure you guys can confirm as well before I will try it. Is this similar biodiesel specs and characteristics that you guys are currently using? Is the ad more of selling it or is there truth in the text content?

Appreciate any comments.