Today, biodiesel quality and performance are at their best, and there are a number of biodiesel myths that circulate. The past should not determine your opinion on biodiesel today because the industry has grown and evolved.
Biodiesel produced at a modern refinery provides similar fuel economy, horsepower, torque and haulage rates as petroleum diesel fuel. On top of that, biodiesel also provides higher cetane and lubricity than its petroleum counterparts.
Watch the brief video to learn the truth about biodiesel and for more details on the facts, continue reading below.
BIODIESEL MYTH: VOIDS ENGINE WARRANTY
Truth: Manufacturers Support Biodiesel
Using biodiesel does not void any manufacturers’ vehicle or engine parts and workmanship warranties. All U.S. diesel vehicle manufacturers support use of B5 biodiesel, and higher B20 blends can be used in more than 80 percent of the diesel vehicles coming off production lines.
BIODIESEL MYTH: INCREASES MAINTENANCE COSTS
Truth: No Maintenance Worries
Biodiesel functions like conventional diesel fuel – requiring no engine modifications and no added maintenance. In fact, biodiesel has engine cleaning properties.
Find Out More About Using Biodiesel
BIODIESEL MYTH: IS WASTE GREASE
Truth: Is an Advanced Biofuel
It’s true that biodiesel can be made from recycled cooking oils, as well as soybean oil and animal fats. However, a refining process called transesterification converts these oils and fats into fuel-grade biodiesel that meets industry specifications. Don’t confuse raw fats and oils with high quality biodiesel fuel.
BIODIESEL MYTH: THE SAME AS ETHANOL
Truth: Made for Diesel Engines
Biodiesel and ethanol are both biofuels, but they come from different biological materials and have different uses. Biodiesel is made from oils and fats, creating a high BTU content fuel for diesel vehicles. Ethanol is an alcohol made from the fermentation of corn and cellulosic materials and is designed only for use in gasoline engines.
Here’s More About the Differences
BIODIESEL MYTH: DOESN’T PERFORM WELL
Truth: Reliable Engine Performance
Biodiesel has higher cetane than U.S. diesel fuel, which means the fuel ignites faster and causes the engine to run better. B20 (20 percent blend of biodiesel with diesel fuel) provides similar fuel economy, horsepower, torque and haulage rates as diesel fuel. Biodiesel also has superior lubricity, and it has the highest energy content of any alternative fuel.
BIODIESEL MYTH: CAUSES PROBLEMS IN WINTER
Truth: Used Successfully Year-Round
B20 biodiesel blends are used successfully all year in the coldest U.S. climates. Treat biodiesel like regular diesel fuel by using cold-weather additives recommended by your fuel supplier. And, regardless of the fuel you use, make sure your storage tank is free from water that can freeze in cold temperatures.
