Ian,
Passing the methanol test indicates that you
successfully converted the veg oil to biodiesel. What
would settle out is unconverted oil mono-, di-,
tri-glycerides, not glycerine.
The problem may be with settling/separation upon
settling, prior to washing. A small amount of glycerine
in the BD would not separate out in the methanol test,
and could contribute to the formation of the layer
between the BD and the water.
How long do you let the mix settle before separating BD
to be washed?
Once settled, does your method for separating BD (to be
washed) ensure that there is no glycerine
contamination?
Tom
Hello to all. I've made two test batches of biodiesel
using new oil using
the instructions on the JTF site, which I've read and
re-read, along with
many of the mailing list posts. I'm enjoying everything
I'm learning, but
still have a ton to learn. I also have a question. In both
my test batches
I've performed the quality tests recommended. The fuel
passes the methanol
test fine, with no glycerine settling out. When I come to
the wash test, I
have perhaps an eighth of an inch of white foam between
the water and the
biodiesel. It separates quite well though. I've tried to
follow all
instructions to the letter and I ordered my chemicals from
DudaDiesel, so I
assume they are a good quality. I assume the foam is soap.
It could be that
my measurements aren't precise enough, but if they aren't
it's because of my
instruments. I have been very meticulous in my
measurements.
I've gone ahead and washed the biodiesel from both
batches, and they also
have a lot of white foam, although they also separate very
quickly. With
both batches I've just kept washing until there's no more
white junk and the
water is clear. Does this take care of the soap (if that's
what it is), or
is there still something to be concerned about? Also, any
suggestions on how
to get that paper thin white layer instead of the
thicker one I have now?
I'm using new oil, what I think are quality chemicals, and
I'm being as
meticulous as I know how to be. As far as I know, I'm
following your
instructions to the letter.
I thank you for your help,
Ian
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