Monday, March 2, 2009

How to Make Biodiesel At Home

By Joseph Then

Have you ever heard of the benefits of using biodiesel? Well, I am sure you have. However, do you know that the most exciting thing about using biodiesel is that you can make your own biodiesel? Therefore, you can safe more money!

You may think that making biodiesel is very difficult but let me tell you this; it is simpler than you think. It is always better to make your own biodiesel as there are many rewards which come with it.

Biodiesel Supplies

To begin, you need a few ingredients- alcohol, lye and vegetable oil. You would also need some supplies to mix the fuel. They are: empty plastic bottles, duct tape, a blender and measuring cups. If you are taking these supplies from the kitchen, make sure you do not use them back as it can be quite harmful.

Once you have gathered your supplies you are ready to begin learning how to make biodiesel.

The Process is Safe

Making biodiesel is a relatively safe process. There is little risk for fire or explosion as you may expect with fuel. In fact, the only major area of concern, as far as safety, is burning yourself. Just be careful and realize the mixture does get hot.

In order to get the end product, biodiesel, you will have to go through a few processes- mixing the ingredients, letting it set, separating the byproduct and biodiesel and then cleaning the biodiesel. The processes will take as little as a few days to weeks to produce but it all depends on how clean the vegetable oil you use is.

Small or Big Scale

Biodiesel can not only be made at a small scale. It can be made on a large scale too. If you need a few gallons of biodiesel at a time, you can use a biodiesel kit. A biodiesel kit would be perfect if you are running on your lawnmower or other lawn equipment.

However, if you are looking to use it in your vehicle, you may need a biodiesel processor. This makes the process simple and you can even make a few gallons at a time. You will need a few supplies but it will be worth it as you will not have to spend a lot of time making biodiesel since the processor does most of the work for you. - 15266

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