SRS Biodiesel

Resin Esterification for High FFA (Free Fatty Acid) Feedstocks

2011-03-04T10:49:00.000-08:00

THE CURRENT BIODIESEL MARKET

Approximately 80% - 85% of biodiesel production cost derives from feedstock.

With the price of feedstocks reaching record costs and the availability ever changing, the production of biodiesel from waste oils and animal fats is one approach to lowering biodiesel production costs.

THE TRADITIONAL APPROACH FOR TREATING HIGH FFA FEEDSTOCKS

These readily available, less expensive feedstocks contain a significant amount of FFA's (Free Fatty Acids). These FFA's must be removed prior to the transesterification process, as they will form soap through an alkali catatlyst during transesterification.

Traditionally, FFA found in biodiesel feedstocks are converted into Fatty Acid Methyl Estser (FAME) through esterification with methanol and using sulfuric acid (H2S04) as a catalyst. A number of approaches for the method exist.

-Remove FFA with Na0H and centrifuge (Neutralization/Caustic Stripping
-Convert FFA into methyl estsers with acid esterification athen proceed with transesterification
-Convert the high FFA into monoglycerides then proceed with transesterification
-Separate the FFA and triglycerides and treat separately

FFA's react with alcohol under an acid catalyst, producing ester and water. This reaction is described in the following equation.

R1 - COOH + R2 - OH --> Sulfuric Acid/Resins --> R1 - COO - R2 - H2O

WHY CHANGE?

Considering the economics of bioidesel production, the conventional method of FFA pretreatment is not a practical approach for the following reasons.

-High yield loss in the high FFA feedstocks

-Dealing with the wast disposal and permitting issues

-Sulfuric acid creates a toxic water disposal stream

-Requires the extra step of neutralizing the biodiesel stream before transesterification

All of these things equate to additional unnecessary and costly steps that could be avoided by utilizing the smart science of SRS Engineering's preferred esterification process.

SRS' PREFERRED ESTERIFICATION PROCESS

Realizing the importance of feedstock costs, permitting issues with acids and chemicals, yield losses, and stringent ASTM D 6751 and EN 14214 standards, we have developed an improved technology that does the following...

Lowers costs associated with feedstock by allowing up to 100% FFA based feedstocks
Up to 99.7% FFA converted to biodiesel, not soap
Eliminates the issues of handling and permitting chemicals and acids
Extended lifetime of catalyst with the proper treatment
Improved quality of both biodiesel and glycerin
No Sulfur or other metal added
Significantly reduced sodium methylate usage in transesterification

Our solid based heterogeneous esterification technology is designed to minimize the overall costs of equipment, eases the complexity of operations and can be used for up to 20% FFA from multi feedstocks. SRS' process is a 2 stage estserification process with 90% conversion in each stage. This enables the use of feedstockssuch as trap grease, brown grease, waste vegetable oil, yellow grease, high FFA tallow, poultry fat, choice white grease, pork fat, algae oil, soybean oil, corn oil, jatropha oil, palm fatty acid distillate, palm sludge oil, and coconut oil.

HOW IT WORKS

Our adjustable system configuration provides optimum output for minimum costs while using any feedstocks with up to 100% FFA. A single stage reaction is enough to reduce FFA levels as low as 0.1% in feedstocks containing low FFA levels, while a two or three stage system would cover any feedstock up to 100% FFA.

Degumming / Bleaching Pretreatment:

In order for the oil and/or fat to be properly treated in the esterification reactor, the feedstock has to be clean of impurities such as ionic species and components, phospholipids, metals, gums, unsaponifiables, water, and other solid impurities.

Use of a degumming and bleaching unit is essential for feedstocks not meeting the above standards. The presence of gums, metals, and water affects the life of the catalyst and thus reduces the yield. SRS is aware that not all biodiesel plants utilize a bleaching and degumming pretreatment process. That is why we offer support to select a pretreatment plan to fit your needs.

WHY SRS ENGINEERING RESIN ESTERIFICATIN SYSTEM?

Our years of experience in the biodiesel industry along with our reputation for state-of-the-art design and engineering have propelled SRS to the forefront of the ever changing biodiesel industry.

We provide our clients with these all encompassing array of solution based services, custom-made to fit your companies specific biodiesel requirements. From assessing your esterification needs and custom fitting an engineering package through installation, start up and training.

Contact SRS Today to Learn More

800-497-5841 or 951-526-2239

sales@srsengineering.com

Leaders in Biodiesel Technology

2010-11-24T10:39:00.000-08:00

SRS Engineering's quarter century of experience in the process industry, along with our reputation for state-of-the-art design and engineering, have propelled SRS to the forefront of the biodiesel industry.

Today we are uniquely positioned to deliver everything from small turnkey biodiesel plants to large-scale biodiesel refineries.

What Makes SRS Stand Out Among the Competition?

One of SRS' core strengths is in engineering biodiesel plants that operate with the highest level of efficiency to create maximum plant productivity. SRS Engineering's biodiesel plants are fully automated requiring minimal human involvement. Our advanced technology allows plants to incorporate various different high Free Fatty Acid (FFA) feedstocks, giving the plant more flexibility and profitability.

Why Choose SRS?

SRS' engineering staff is comprised of 60+ ISO9001:2008 certified engineers, working as a team to help optimize the plants design and controls, resulting in a favorable outcome to the client's bottom line. Specializing in electrical, process, application, project, mechanical, chemical, civil, structural, and control engineering.

SRS' experience, technology and reputation make us a leader in the biodiesel industry, providing the following services to our clientele.

Turnkey Biodiesel Refineries

SRS Engineering understands the steps required to build and maintain a biodiesel plant. From site selection and permitting to producing ASTM D 6751 fuel, SR has the capability and the facilities to complete every aspect of your biodiesel plant construction.

Plant Size Determination
Selecting an Appropriate Site
Permitting
Biodiesel Plant Engineering
Determining your Biodiesel Equipment Needs
Plant Installation
Quality and BQ-900 Considerations
Plant Start-Up and Training
Planning for the Future

Existing Biodiesel Plants

SRS Engineering offers consulting services, revamping and expansion services to challenged and incomplete biodiesel plants. SRS' biodiesel engineers can help you determine your current plants problems and make appropriate recommendations to get your plant up and running at its peak performance.

Many of our clients come to SRS as a result of their dissatisfaction with their existing biodiesel technology. SRS' trained team of biodiesel professionals provide a high level of expertise to assist challenged biodiesel plants to become functioning and profitable once again.

Biodiesel Reactors

SRS Engineering utilizes cavitation technology. A reactor skid system that employs leading technology allowing our reactors to achieve the following.

Feedstock Flexibility
Simultaneous Use of Feedstocks
High FFA Feedstocks
Full Conversion into Biodiesel
Instantaneous Reaction
High Yield Biodiesel
High Quality Biodiesel
Reduced Energy Consumption

High FFA Pretreatment

SRS Engineering has created the patent pending FSP-Series Acid Esterification Pretreatment System to enable new and existing plants the ability to incorporate multiple High FFA feedstocks

In todays market, having your plant be multi-feedstock capable is not only a competitive advantage...its a business necessity.

Whether it be animal fat based feedstocks such as beef tallow or chicken fat, or one of the new emerging feedstocks such as algae or jatropha, they all share one thing in common...FFA too high for base transesterification. SRS offers a scalable, continuous flow, skid-mounted system that can front-end any existing biodiesel system, efficiently converting FFA into usable oil with no yield loss.

Methanol Recovery

SRS Engineering's High Purity Methanol Recovery Systems true fractional distillation columns efficiently recover 99.9% of all unused methanol, returning it clean and dry to your bulk methanol tank at 99.9% purity, often a higher purity than the new methanol you can purchase and with no off-site reprocessing costs.

Methanol Recovery for biodiesel is an important part of the entire biodiesel process and involves the highest cost of operation for a biodiesel plant.

Only about half of the methanol used is actually consumed in the transesterification process, leaving the rest in the finished biodiesel and glycerin.

With today's high methanol costs, biodiesel producers simply cannot afford to throw away half of the methanol they purchase.

Everyone now is striving for ASTM compliant biodiesel. Leaving methanol in finished biodiesel has another bad side effect...its wall fail the ASTM Flash Point Test.

Biodiesel Distillation

Are you concerned about passing Cold Flow Filtration?

SRS has the answer to your problem with our ASVB-Series Distillation System, which distills your biodiesel, creating the purest biodiesel possible. By distilling your biodiesel, you can be back in business in no time with ASTM compliant biodiesel.

Advantages of Biodiesel Distillation are...

Creates product homogeneity
Creates a superior biodiesel when using both virgin and animal feedstocks
Market differentiation by creating the purest biodiesel possible
Takes sulfur out of high sulfur feedstocks like beef tallow and checken fat (up to 80 ppm)
Meets ASTM Specifications

Solvent Extraction

Solvent extraction is the process which involves extracting oil from oil-bearing materials by treating it with a low boiler solvent as opposed to extracting the oils by mechanical pressing methods.

SRS' solvent extraction method recovers almost all the oils and leaves behind only 0.5% to 0.7% residue oil in the raw material, as opposed to mechanical pressing, which may leave a residual oil anywhere from 6% to 14%.

SRS' solvent extraction method can be applied directly to any low oil content raw materials or can be used to extract pre-pressed oil cakes obtained from high oil content materials.

Glycerin Purification

SRS has designed a high-purity glycerin purification system, giving biodiesel plants the ability to create additional profits through purification of their crude glycerin. SRS' system can produce high quality glycerin in high yield while maximizing energy efficiency. The system can take crude glycerin with a purity rating of 80% to a technical grade glycerin of >90%.

Glycerin naturally occurs during the biodiesel production process and is specifically produced in the transesterification process. Glycerin produced at this stage is about 80% pure still containing contaminants like soap, methanol, and water.

The purification process must take place in order to turn this glycerin into a usable state for emerging uses.

Glycerin currently has over 1,500 known uses in many different industries ranging from foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics (USP Grade), to paints, coatings, and other industrial types of applications (technical grade).

Engineering, CAD, Programming Services

SRS can provide you with a wide variety of affordable engineering, CAD, and programming services for different industries.

SRS' India Division has 40+ engineers with over 150 years of combined expertise in the following...

Electrical
Civil
Mechanical
Structural
Process
Control
Chemical
Environmental
Instrumentation

We take pride in the quality of the products and servies we offer. Some of these services include...

Piping Engineering
Instrumentation Engineering
CAD Services
Documentation and Manuals
Structural Engineering

SRS is Committed to Providing You With the Highest Level of Customer Satisfaction Possible. Please Contact us Today for Your Free Quote.

800-497-5841 or 951-526-2239

sales@srsengineering.com

House Passes Biodiesel Tax Credit

2010-06-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

The house has passed the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loophole Act by a vote of 215 to 204.

H. R. 4213 seeks to retroactively extend the one dollar per gallon production tax credit for biodiesel and diesel made from biomass, from the date of the lapse in 2009 until the end of 2010.

Also in its sights are the small biodiesel producers, aiming to extend the 10 cents per gallon credit.

Other proposed extensions to credits for biomass power projects, heavy hybrid vehicles and alternative fuels for vehicles including biomass and biogas.

Manning Feraci , National Biodiesel Board Vice President of Federal Affairs stated, “There are compelling economic, energy security and environmental benefits associated with displacing petroleum with clean-burning, domestically produced biodiesel “Common sense dictates that the Senate should act swiftly upon their return from Memorial Day recess and extend this effective public policy.

During the six years that the tax incentive has been in place, the biodiesel industry has added $4.1 billion to the nations GDP and generated $828 million in tax revenue for Federal, State, and Local Government.

SRS Engineering is Now Offering Outsourced Engineering Solutions

2010-04-08T13:08:00.000-07:00

SRS Engineering is sharing the secreet thta we have known and used for over 20 years and that has made our company so successful. Our SRS India Division specializes in engineering solutions to save valuable time and money without compromising quality, giving us the ability to pass these savings on to our customers.

SRS Engineering's India Division is a value added resource that we would like to share with everyone!

Rest Assured that when yo call SRS for our engineering services you will receive excellent customer care from our stateside liaisons ensuring that yo have a seamless transition.

Here are just some of the engineering services that we have to offer you.

-Electrical -Civil
-Mechanical -Structural
-Process -Control
-Chemical -Environmental
-Instrumentation

Here are some of SRS Engineering Standard Hourly Billing Rates.

Principal Engineer $65.00

Senior Process Engineer $42.00

Senior Process Resource $40.00

Process Engineer $34.00

Senior Project Manager $46.00

Project Manager $38.00

Drafting Technologist $28.00

Intern Engineer/Project Coordinator $32.00

Student Technologist $26.00

Administrative Assistant $22.00

Savings that you can pass on to your customers!

You may call me today at 800-497-5841 or email me at jenniferm@srsengineering.com for a free consultation and quote!
Visit our website at www.srsengineering.com

National Biodiesel Day

2010-03-17T13:05:00.000-07:00

To many, March 18th means the celebration of Saint Patrick's Day, But, today is also Rudolph Diesel's birthday.

Over 100 years ago Rudolf Diesel discovered an innovation that was cutting edge. Today, no other engine inventor's name is so intently tied to his engine.

His pursuit to find more efficient ways to use steam as the working fluid in heat engines led to patents in 1892 & 1893 for the cycle of an engine using the compression-ignition method. Diesel then tackled the obstacle of the compression-ignition engine as a refinement of the petrol engine invented by Niklaus Otto in 1876. Although he experienced several obstacles with manufacturing, licensing, and financial stability, he spent the rest of his life introducing his invention to the world.

The diesel engine was originally made to run on peanut oil, and only later did petroleum become the standard fuel. Diesel said, "the use of vegetable oils for engine fuels may seem insignificant today, but such oils may become, in the course of time, as important as petroleum and the coal tar products of the present time."

Diesel eventually revised his first model and in 1894 his new engine ran for more than a minute. This engine had a mechanical efficiency over 75%, surpassing the steam engines of that time which where running at less than 10%.

In 1898 Diesel made himself a millionaire by selling the rights to his engine to a Missouri beer manufacturer named Adolphus Busch. His determination and sales were so monumental that they were used in almost all US submarines during WWI.

On September 29, 1913, Diesel disappeared from the Harwich-Antwerp ferry as is crossed the Channel and was never found. Since his death the diesel engine has become and integral component in transportation and manufacturing.

National Biodiesel Conference & Expo

2010-01-15T11:22:00.000-08:00

Come see SRS Engineering Corporation at the 2010 National Biodiesel Conference & Expo being held February 7th through the 10th in Grapevine Texas at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center.

This is a fantastic forum for the biodiesel industry to network with numerous biodiesel marketers, feedstock growers, fuel distributors, governament leaders and other biodiesel stakeholders. This year, the NBB has the new Biodiesel Networking Center and a new and improved NBB Connections social networking website to accomodate the numerous open forum "round table sessions."

Futures forecaster Don Reynolds will be a keynote speaker sure to pique interests with his answers to questions regardint the "new normal" in the business environment.

To see a full list of exhibitors go to www.biodieselconference.org/2010

U.S. House of Representatives Extends Biodiesel Tax Credit One Year

2009-12-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

The House approved the expansive $31 billion tax extenders package 241 to 181, which includes a one year extension for the biodiesel tax credit set to expire December 31, 2009. This will continue the biodiesel tax credit into 2010. However, the Senate must still act on the plan.

"While it remains to be seen when or if the Senate will take up this tax incentive provision, the NBB will continue to work with its memebership and Senators to ensure this important measure is passed and signed into law," said Michael C. Frohlich, Director of Communications for the National Biodiesl Board's Washington, D.C. office.

"In terms of the five-year tax extension that would also alter the credit from a production excise credit to a producers credit, it is clear that due to the legislative calendar and the priorities currenly facing Congress - healthcare being front and center - that legislation will not be voted on this year. Therefore, the NBB has decided to endorse the one year extension as to ensure that the tax credit does not expire, and will continue to work towards a multiyear producer tax credit in the future."

It’s a Very Biodiesel Christmas in Washington D.C.

2009-12-10T13:13:00.000-08:00

Ironically, on the heels of the expiration of the Biodiesel Tax Incentive on December 31, the Capital Christmas Tree has made its 4,000 mile journey cross country from Arizona to the nation's capital on trucks fueled with a B5 biodiesel blend.

"It is significant that the Capitol Christmas Tree was delivered with biodiesel because economic development, carbon reduction, and energy security continue to dominate national priorities", said Joe Jobe, CEo of the National Biodiesel Board. "Biodiesel helps us achieve all of those things".

The trucks carrying the tree and its 10,000 handmade ornaments and 80 companion trees that will be set up throughout the Capital Complex made their journey across the country using the "BioTrucker" system, traveling from some of the 800 existing biodiesel stations to fuel up with donated biodiesel along the way.

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel for diesel engines. It reduces lifecycle carbon dioxice emissions by 78 percent, is made domestically from agricultural byproducts such as soybean oil and other fats and oils, and it supports thousands of green jobs.

To help save the Biodiesel Tax Incentive, please visit the National Biodiesel Board's Tax Credit Action Center by Clicking Here.

Help Save the Biodiesel Tax Incentive

2009-12-08T15:56:00.000-08:00

The Biodiesel tax incentive will expire on December 31, 2009 unless Congress acts affirmatively to extend the tax credit.

The biodiesel tax incentive was enacted in 2004 allowing the nation to reap the economic energy, security and environmental benefits associated with commerical scal production and use of biodiesel. This incentive is designed in such a way that makes biodiesel competitively priced with petroleum diesel in the marketplace.

If the credit is allowed to lapse, it will intensify the astounding challenges that face the industry already and will cost the U.S. an additional 23,000 jobs to the 29,000 that have already been lost in 2009.

According to a study released by renowned economic analyst, John M. Urbanchuck, there will be a major loss of jobs and income, increased demand for petroleum diesel, a degradation of energy security, decreased demand for soybean oil and lower soybean prices leading to a negative impact on farm income, stranded investment as biodiesel capacity is idled, and lost tax revenue for States and local Governments.

The U.S. House of representatives is tentatively scheduled to consider legislation that would extend a host of expiring tax provisions, including the biosiesel tax incentive for one year. With health care dominating the Senates focus, it's unclear when, or, if the U.S. Senate will address this issue before the end of the year. Both chambers must reach an agreement of the final makeup of a larger tax bill carrying an extension of the biodiesel tax incentive.

The National Biodiesel Board, (NBB) has provided a Tax Credit Action Center with a sample letter, talking points, and contact information for your elected officials. Those who wish to participate in saving the Biodiesel Tax Incentive can visit the site provided by the NBB by Clicking Here.

Worldwide Demand for Biodiesel Expected to Double in the Next 5 Years

2009-12-02T13:50:00.000-08:00

Biofuels usage is not only expanding in the U.S. and Europe, but also in Asia and Latin America. Tammy Klein, Executive Director of Global Biofuels Services for Hart Energy Consulting stated that thirty countries are implementing biofuels targets in 2010, with many of these countries in the developing world encouraging biofuels as a means of building energy security and improving their rural economies.

The Demand for biodiesel is anticipated to double and the supply of Biodiesel is predicted to triple in growth between 2009 and 2015. "Currently there is massive overcapacity on a gloabal basis in the biodiesel industry and utiliztion rates are generally below 50 percent", Klein added. At present, global biodiesel capacity is already capable to supply the demand projected for 2015 of 10 billion gallons per year.

Developing countries hold 17 percent of demand and nearly 50 percent of supply, (mostly for domestic use), and is expected to grow to 42.6 percent demand and 59.2 percent supply by 2015. At this time, thirty countries are utilizing the typical B5 blended biodiesel. Countries in Europe are migrating to a B7 blend and Brazil aiming even higher. Indonesia is contemplating B10. Many Countries are looking to biofuels to create jobs, economic development and domestic energy.

To read more Click Here

Canadian Biofuel Production Expected to Increase

2009-10-26T13:48:00.000-07:00

Government subsidies for renewable fuel requirements and production plants will boost biofuel production to an anticipated 76% in two years as reported by Biofuels International.

Currently produces 1.3 billion liters of ethanol and 120 million liters of biodiesel annually. Biofuel production will reach 2.5 billion liters yearly by2011. This includes 2 billion liters of ethanol and 500 million liters of biodiesel according to Gordon Quaittina, President of the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association.

Canada will mandate 5% renewable-fuel blend in petroleum by 2010 and 2% blend in diesel and heating oil by 2011.

Use More Biodiesel, Its good for you.

2009-10-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

According to recently published research from the University of Idaho and the USDA, the use of more biodiesel will have a positive impact on reducing carbon pollution.

The study demonstrated that for every unit of fossil energy needed to produce biodiesel, there will be a return of 4.5 units of energy. Research also showed that the “energy in” to “energy out” ratio is energy balance. Because the main energy source to grow soybeans is the sun, soybean oil has a naturally occurring high energy balance.

Not only is biodiesel good for the environment, valuable by-products like glycerin are produced.

"This gives Americans even more reason to put their faith in the environmental and societal benefits of biodiesel," said Joe Jobe, CEO of the US National Biodiesel Board. "The Environmental Protection Agency should take this into account when considering biodiesel's greenhouse gas reductions."

Jobe says EPA should recognize that biodiesel production is growing more efficient, while oil exploration and drilling becomes more intensive each day.

Promising Outlook for Venture Capital Investments in Greentech

2009-10-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

In comparison with the previous two quarters of this year, the third quarter is looking healthier for venture capital investments in the greentech sector as reported by greentech Media Research.

In Q1 there was $836 million invested in 59 deals. In Q2, 1.2 billion was invested in 85 deals. Q3 closed with 1.9 billion invested in 112 deals.

Solar was the most popular sector with $576 million invested in 29 deals. This was closely followed by the biofuels sector having $513 million in investments on 17 deals. Third runner up was smart grid with $160 million invested in 14 deals.

With $3.9 billion to date and one more quarter to go, this is already the second best year for Greentech Venture Capital investing behind 2008 which was $7.6 billion and 2007 was $3.5 billion.

Largely responsible for raising the third quarter greentech venture capital investments are the funds made available from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which are reaching more than $1 billion so far this quarter.

Friday, September 25th is The Deadline to Comment on RFS2

2009-09-21T12:29:00.000-07:00

This Friday, September 25th is the last day the EPA will be accepting comments on the proposed rule to carry out the renewable fuel standards.

If you have not done so already, those in the biodiesel industry are encouraged to submit their comments. The National Biodiesel Board has made this very quick and simple at their action center, available at http://biodiesel.org/news/RFS/. Offering background information, links to the EPA websites and instructions on emailing your comments.

The NBB is making this so easy. They have created a quick form already containing a message. All that is needed from you is your name, city, state, and email address and submit. 20 seconds later and you’re done. You may event personalize your comments at this site as well.

The EPA’s proposed rule would eliminate soy based biodiesel from qualifying under the specific federal mandate for biomass-based diesel use. The future of the U.S. Biodiesel industry is at risk.Soy bean farmers and those in the biodiesel industry need to voice their opposition to this proposed rule.

Very critical sections of the proposed rule include the involvement of international indirect land use impacts and the greenhouse gas emissions calculations. Another concern is having to certify that feedstocks were grown on land already producing and if so a new certification system may be implemented.

To voice your comment before this Friday’s deadline Click Here.

2009-09-18T16:04:00.001-07:00

“Fuel”, The Movie Debut’s Tonight
Fuel, the documentary is scheduled to debut tonight in New York, NY and ready to open in 150 theaters across the country tomorrow.
This is Josh’s story…, He was born in Australia and grew up in Louisiana near several oil refineries. Watching the pollutions devastating effects to the health of his family and friends inspired Josh to seek out a better way of producing fuel other than petroleum. Josh Tickell Directed and Starred in this film which was produced by Rebecca Harrell took almost ten years make.
Josh started his journey, driving his “veggie van” fueled from used restaurant grease across the U.S. promoting the benefits of biodiesel.

http://ping.fm/Nry9R

“Fuel”, The Movie Debut’s Tonight

2009-09-18T15:43:00.000-07:00

Fuel, the documentary is scheduled to debut tonight in New York, NY and ready to open in 150 theaters across the country tomorrow. This Sundance award winning film is being called “eye opening” and “Powerful” by those given the opportunity to pre-screen this documentary.

This is Josh’s story…, He was born in Australia and grew up in Louisiana near several oil refineries. Watching the pollutions devastating effects to the health of his family and friends inspired Josh to seek out a better way of producing fuel other than petroleum. Josh Tickell Directed and Starred in this film which was produced by Rebecca Harrell took almost ten years make.

Josh started his journey, driving his “veggie van” fueled from used restaurant grease across the U.S. promoting the benefits of biodiesel.

To buy tickets and to see the locations at times for this documentary Click Here

EPA Now Considers B20-Approved Models as “Flex-Fuel”

2009-09-17T11:01:00.000-07:00

The EPA has proposed a new rule in concurrence with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defining what is being referred to as an “historic national program” that will improve fuel economy, significantly diminish greenhouse gas emissions, and also allows Flexible Fuel (FFV) Credits to auto makers.

This 1,200 page document says that B20-capable passenger cars, light-duty trucks and medium-duty passenger vehicles in the model years 2010 - 2016 receive the same FFV qualifications as ethanol/gas vehicles.

B20 approved autos may use significantly less biodiesel or no biodiesel at all once in the consumers hands, which would void out the proposed rule to increase the consumption of biofuels completely. The EPA suggests a remedy to this issue by recommending that manufacturers should not receive FFV credits unless they can calculate the amount of alternative fuels being purchased by the consumers on model years 2016 and later.

Automakers may also consider branding their B20-approved models with a logo or label would endorsing biodiesel therefore giving the industry more visibility among the general public, increasing awareness of biodiesel.

To read more Click Here

SRS Engineering Approaching Completion on Expansion of Global Alternative Fuels Project

2009-09-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

SRS Engineering Corporation is approaching the finals stages of completion of the expansion of Global Alternative Fuels, LLC in El Paso, Texas to increase their biodiesel production up to 15MMgy and update process systems.

According to Dean Rigg, CFO of Global Alternative Fuels, he intends this plant to be online by November as a multi-feedstock plant with the capabilities to convert yellow grease, tallow and soy into biodiesel.

“Working with the team at Global Alternative Fuels for a second time is a great honor,” said Clayton Hawranik, president and CEO of SRS Engineering. “We always appreciate the opportunity to work with clients a second time and take it as a huge compliment to our staff and our state-of-the- art technology. We are looking forward to assisting GAF in creating a strong profitable biodiesel plant.”

Click here to read about this

The New Generation of Hybrid Cars

2009-09-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

Diesel and electric are working in harmony as the new hybrid passenger vehicles. This combination of diesel engine and electric motor has been proven in heavy trucks for some time now and carmakers are starting to get the hint that light duty vehicles may also benefit from this design.

The two engines complement each other perfectly. The electric motor, powered by batteries that capture energy from braking is perfect for the city, while the diesel engine prevails over the gasoline engine in maintaining highway speeds and toting heavy loads.
So far, only a few carmakers have started to build these hybrids to be sold starting in 2010. This reflects the growing interest in high performance yet economical and earth friendly cars. BMW and Mercedes Benz are just 2 of the manufacturers working on the production of these concept Plug in diesel hybrids.

Relatively inexpensive diesel powered passenger vehicles are becoming more popular in the U.S., thanks to car manufacturers such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Audi. This sway towards diesel engines in America could lead to more wide spread production of what could be one of the most eco-friendly passenger cars among automakers.

Big Oil, A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

2009-09-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Big Oil is at it again. This time masquerading as “Energy Citizens”, a group developed by the Washington lobbyist organization, the American Petroleum Institute. This group is orchestrating rallies throughout the country in their attempt to bury the clean energy and climate plan currently being considered by congress.

The Biofuels industry has had their fill of big oil’s attempts to frighten the public with their grim economic tales, and they are not alone. Operation Free, a group of leading Veterans and national security organizations is countering the big oil efforts by excoriating the claims of Energy Citizens propaganda campaign. Operation Free claims that Energy Citizens actions threaten our national security. Operation Free strongly supports the current Congressional action on clean energy and the climate plan that ends the country’s oil dependency, attacks global warming, and boosts national security.

To read more about this Click Here

SRS Engineering Makes the Inc Magazine’s Fastest Growing Private Company 2009 List

2009-08-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

SRS Ranks #60 in the Top 100 Energy Industries!

SRS Engineering experienced a 149.8 percent growth in the last four years, summing $5.4 million revenue in the year 2008. The company credits its success to its 25 years of recognized engineering and good standing in the industry. Our reputation is backed up domestically by several Fortune 500 companies and by renowned corporations worldwide.

“We are thrilled and honored to receive this prestigious ranking”, says Clayton Hawranik, CEO of SRS Engineering Corporation.

To Read this Press Release Click Here

RFS2 – What Will Happen? You Decide

2009-08-25T15:01:00.000-07:00

The Renewable Fuel Standard Program is reaching a crucial point, impacting the renewable fuels industry tremendously. The National Biodiesel Board is doing everything they can to make sure the RFS2 is put into action in the most functional and economical way.
The RFS2 program is designed to increase the volume of renewable fuel required to be blended into conventional gasoline and diesel and to decrease the green house gas(GHG), emissions. This would be the first ever mandatory GHG reduction thresholds for various categories of fuels. GHG emissions are evaluated over the full lifecycle of the fuel, from production of the feedstock all the way to the end use of the renewable fuel, essentially, “from the field to fumes”. The GHG emissions are then compared to the lifecycle emissions of petroleum based fuels. The established range is for a 20 to 60 percent reduction, dependant on the type of renewable fuel.
The EPA has designed a plan which would require a minimum level of particular feedstocks in all biodiesel. The EPA has also proposed to use a Renewable Energy Number system (RIN), to track renewable fuels and determine compliance with the modifications designed to implement the Energy Independence & Security Act(EISA).This provision is a very expensive and complicated tracking program that may have a negative effect on the renewable fuel industry by driving costs up and driving producers out. This is the complete opposite of what this program was originally designed to do, reduce dependence on foreign sources of crude oil, increase domestic sources of energy, and diversify our energy portfolio to bring us beyond a petroleum based economy.
Once this RFS2 program is implemented, the EPA expects to conduct a “notice and comment” rule making process each year in order to determine the appropriate standards applicable in the following year.
Your comments will be considered for the 2010 standards.
Your opinion will be heard if you visit http://www.biodiesel.org/news/RFS and send your comments to the EPA. Your comments will make an impact on the final decision.
To be redirected to the NBB website and make your voice heard, Click Here

SRS Engineering Featured in Biodiesel Magazine Article

2009-08-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Biodiesel Magazine has published an article in their September 2009 issue focusing on new biodiesel producers and the systems and strategies utilized to be successful in the biodiesel industry.
A series of biodiesel producers are profiled, highlighting each unique strategy to reach success. Focusing on timing and technologies, All, striving to have an edge on the competition.
In particular, Producers Choice Soy Energy LLC biodiesel plant located in Moberly Missouri. The 10MMgy is a multi-feedstock plant ready to accommodate waste vegetable oil from local suppliers as well as soybean oil which is processed on site.
The Facility was built by Process Concepts Inc. using process technology from SRS Engineering Corporation and launches a new technology from Cavitation Technologies Inc. SRS Engineering’s Founder and Chief Engineer, George Hawranik was on site in the later part of July to kick off the commissioning process, testing miles of piping and fittings and repairing any leaks.
“Utilizing SRS technology for automated, continuous flow pretreatment of high FFA feedstocks has saved the plant money by reducing the tankage requirements”, Hawranik says. “The four-step process sends the product through acid esterification twice, with methanol and water removed at both stages for recycling before the product moves on to the transesterification process”. We’re trying to restrict the use of high cost catatysts”, he says, “Our focus is on reducing the cost of production”.

To read the article, Click Here

What the Future Holds for Biodiesel

2009-08-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

2010 federal requirements call for all diesel oil for vehicles and heating to have a 2% biodiesel blend. Some states are now requiring the mixture of biodiesel in all home heating oil with Massachusetts being the first. Many in the U.S. biodiesel industry are hopeful that The Cash For Clunkers program will lead to more diesel powered vehicles in America. Diesel is more efficient than gasoline and requires less engine maintenance. The result will mean more diesel cars on the road and the need for more biodiesel.
The Good News First…
Biodiesel from waste vegetable oils is better for the environment than biodiesel made from soy or other traditional raw feedstocks. Soy based biodiesel results in a mere 22% carbon emission reduction when considering the process from the planting to the end product (biodiesel). Compare that to the waste vegetable oil results of 80% carbon emissions reduction. Up and coming feedstocks such as pennycress (aka stinkweed) show a promising 90% carbon emissions reduction. Even better, pennycress does not require irrigation or prime food soil as it is merely a weed.
The Not So Good News…
The Biodiesel business in the U.S. took a blow when Europe instated the five year anti-U.S. tariff of biodiesel. Although the U.S. continues to export some biodiesel, we still face some stiff competition from Brazil, Argentina, Indonesia, India and other producers.
The main feedstock being used by Argentina and Brazil is soy which is leading to the destruction of native forests by way of clearing the land for soy crops. Coconut plays the starring role in feedstocks coming out of Indonesia, ultimately with the same result to the forests of Brazil and Argentina. Europe’s home grown feedstock is mainly sourced from Rapeseed and Canola with France existing as their number one producer.
The biodiesel industry as a whole is competing with the billions of dollars profited by the petroleum industry every year. Rapid growth within the biodiesel industry will require extensive capital and privately supplied capital is scarce.
Ending on a good note…
There is 230 million dollars of stimulus money that could apply to loan guarantees to biodiesel companies. In addition, federal energy bills passed into law could bring increased fuel mandates equating to more money and maybe even more federal direct spending.

SRS Engineering Corporation Renews its GSA Contract

2009-08-12T13:55:00.000-07:00

SRS Engineering Corp., is pleased to announce the renewal of its GeneralServices Administration (GSA) contract. GSA is a service that increases the buying power of the federalgovernment all the while leveraging tax payer dollar by getting the best price for a product or service. The GSAoffers a wide range of services and products to the federal government including real estate services, travel &transport services, etc. In summation, GSA essentially provides the federal government with preferred vendorsthat supply anything from office supplies to a jet plane.To enlist in the GSA program, a company must establish specific products from their product line along withspecial discounted pricing. The program allows the federal agencies to make rentals and purchases withminimized paperwork all the while ensuring discounted pricing. SRS’ list of products cataloged with the GSAincludes washing systems, solvent recovery systems, aerosol can crushing systems, and compactors.

To read more Click Here

Bill Introduced to Simplify and Extend Biodiesel Tax Incentive

2009-08-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

Today, Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa along with Democratic Senator Maria Cantwell from Washington introduced The Biodiesel Tax Incentive Reform and Extension Act of 2009, legislation to simplify and extend the tax incentive for domestic biodiesel production. Grassley, who is a Republican member of the Finance Committee wrote the original biodiesel tax incentive while serving as committee chairman in 2004.
“Domestic production and use of biodiesel is consistent with an energy policy that values the displacement of petroleum with low-carbon, renewable fuels. This legislation will provide certainty to biodiesel producers and improve the form and function of the biodiesel tax incentive. We strongly support this proposal and commend Senator Cantwell and Senator Grassley for introducing this forward thinking legislation,” said NBB CEO Joe Jobe. “This common sense proposal is consistent with an energy policy that values the use of domestically produced, low carbon renewable fuels to meet the nation’s energy needs. Our industry looks forward to working with Senator Cantwell and Senator Grassley to enact this important proposal.”
Today legislation would ameliorate the tax credit currently in place for blending biodiesel with petroleum diesel which expires at the end of this year, and extend it for five more years.
“America is trying to kick its addiction to foreign oil, and biodiesel is part of the cure,” Grassley said. “The more we can encourage domestic production and meet demand, the better off we’ll be economically, environmentally, and geopolitically. This legislation simplifies the tax credit for producers. It also gives investors predictability so they’ll be more likely to put their money into biodiesel production.” Grassley also said U.S. production of biodiesel has increased significantly in recent years, and the legislation will encourage that progress.
To Read More Click Here

Upgrading an Existing Biodiesel Facility

2009-08-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

SRS Engineering Corporation is partnering with a company in Texas to upgrade an existing biodiesel plant. This plant is currently being upgraded from a 5MMGY facility to a 15MMGY facility.
SRS Engineering Corporation is excited to be providing the technology equipment to upgrade this plant to accommodate the additional 10MMGY.

SRS Engineering Corporation has the ability to provide new biodiesel plants as well as upgrades to existing biodiesel plants that aren’t meeting the ASTM standards, bringing them to current industry and environmental expectations.
The upgrades are progressing as anticipated. To view the progress of the construction Click Here.

Demonstrating the Performance of Biodiesel

2009-08-04T13:06:00.000-07:00

On July 31st through August 2nd, a Boeing U-787 Hydrplane was tested repeatedly at the Chevrolet Cup Hydroplane at Seafair. Each run with a greater amount of the biodiesel blend, finishing with 100% biodiesel during a run on Sunday. Retired Hydroplane driver Chip Hanauer posted Friday’s fastest lap at 153.691 mph and said that he experienced no decrease in performance while the percentage of biodiesel was increased.

Testing was demonstrated during rapid acceleration, deceleration, tight cornering as well as normal operating conditions.
“This hydroplane demonstration run is another successful step in our efforts to showcase the potential for sustainable biofuels to reduce emissions from air travel without sacrificing safety, performance and efficiency”, commented Mike Garrett, Director of Aircraft Performance at Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Feedstock for the biodiesel consisted of 85% camelina, 14% jatropha and 1% algae. This same biodiesel blend was used in the test flight of a Japan Airlines Boeing 747-300 back in January.

Oregon’s B2 mandate begins next week

2009-07-30T14:56:00.000-07:00

Several Counties in Oregon will adopt a B mandate beginning next week with the rest of the state to follow later in the fall. The biodiesel blend will be mandatory starting August 5th in the following counties; Multnomah, Clackamas, Washington, Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook, Yamhill, Polk and Marion. The rest of the state will follow by October 1st.
There are exceptions to the mandate including rail, marine, and home heating oil. Oregon currently has a biodiesel production capacity at five million gallons triggering this mandate to a two percent requirement. This is all a result of the renewable energy legislation passed in 2007.
With almost a half billion gallons of diesel sold in Oregon each year, the new standard will have a significant impact.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture requires testing of B100 biodiesel by the supplier at the receiving terminal and by in-state producers prior to blending with standard diesel. In addition, the B100 biodiesel will be sampled by ODA . This will ensure that the parent biodiesel product and the standard diesel meet specifications before blending.
“Blended biodiesel has actually been sold by some retailers and wholesalers in Oregon for quite some time now, but has not been mandatory”, says Clark Cooney, assistant administrator with the Measurement Standards Division.
Oregon’s State law was slated to go into effect when in-state biodiesel production reached five million gallons a year.

To Read More Click Here

SRS Engineering Corporation Received the 2009 Best of Murrieta Award!

2009-07-27T09:40:00.000-07:00

SRS Engineering Corporation has received the 2009 Best of Murrieta Award from the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) in the Inorganic Metal Compounds or Salts Category.
USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. The USCA recognizes companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category.
Several sources of information were collected and analyzed to select the winner in each category focusing of quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on information gathered by both the USCA and information provided by third parties.
The U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a Washington D.C. based organization supported by local businesses operating in towns, large and small across the United States. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, advertising and marketing.

To Read the Press Release, Click Here

Hilton Hotel Converts Kitchen Oil to Biodiesel

2009-07-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

Hilton Americas in Houston Texas has converted its fleet to a biodiesel blend created from the waste oils right out of their own kitchen! The hotel has been using a tolling arrangement with a biodiesel processor to convert the oils to biodiesel earning them the silver-level Green Seal Certification for meeting the requirements of the Green Seal Environmental Standard for lodging.

To Read More Click Here

Financing for biofuels projects may be a worry of the past

2009-07-21T13:47:00.000-07:00

Rabobank has just established a Renewable Energy and Infrastructure Finance team (FEIF) in the Americas. Tomas Emmons will be leading this department with teams located in Europe, Asia and now in New York.

The REIF Team will focus on non-and-limited-recourse finance solutions in biofuels, biomass, bio-energy, wind power, solar power, renewable energy and energy infrastructure projects.
Focusing on the United States, Rabobank plans to grow relationships with developers, owners and operators of renewable energy generating technologies and facilities. Rabobank will start by participating in and co-underwriting project financings, and in the future will lead project financing transactions. Rabobank is currently seeking out opportunities to finance the renewable energy activities of its food and agribusiness clientele.

Marcel Gerritsen, Global Head of REIF, said in a press statment, “Rabobank’s agricultural roots and cooperative structure ensure that we are especially aware of the need for sustainable development, and drive our goal of making sustainability an integral part of our business. Our goal overall is to apply our financial services to effectively contribute to the transition from a high-CO2 to a low-CO2 economy and, within the renewable energy sector, to further develop sustainable energy supplies and technologies around the world.”

To read more click here

Are diesel vehicles making a comeback?

2009-07-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

Diesel vehicles are starting to make a comeback in the auto industry. Diesel engines are known for being powerful and more fuel efficient than gasoline engines (approximately 30-35% more fuel efficient). Today's diesel vehicles are not the diesels of past years. Modifications have been made to today's engines giving them improved fuel injection and increased power and acceleration. New engine designs are also cutting back on noise and vibration while creating a quieter, smoother ride.

An increased number of diesel vehicles on the road would be a positive thing for the biodiesel industry. With so much focus being put on renewable fuels like biodiesel and the federal government still offering incentives to biodiesel producers, this could be a win-win for both producers and the end user.

Tax Incentives - Some diesel cars and trucks are eligible for up to $3,400 in Federal Tax Incentives. For more information on this, click here

2009-07-09T14:38:00.000-07:00

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The Benefits of Biodiesel

2009-07-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

This is our first post to Everything Biodiesel......Thanks for visiting!

Let's start reducing our reliance on foreign oil and start utilizing biodiesel as a viable alternative to gasoline. Biodiesel is known to provide better fuel efficiency than gasoline because the unit value or energy per unit of biodiesel is greater than gasoline, allowing you to go further on a gallon of biodiesel. Biodiesel also has a greater lubricity than gasoline which means your engines will last longer.

Aside from the obvious benefits to your vehicle, biodiesel can also help consumers do their part in reducing their carbon footprint. Biodiesel has been proven to be good for the environment because it's fully biodegradable and burns cleaner than gasoline. Cleaner fuel equates to a reduction in green house gas emissions!

Read more about the benefits of biodiesel on this site. Click here