One of the market barriers to using higher BD blends has been the lack of factory ready vehicles that can run on B100 without voiding the engine warranty. The lack of factory ready vehicles has been attributed to the lack of standard chemical properties because of differing production methods. Recent standards for BD have been approved, ASTM D-6751, which is expected to result in the ability of more engines to use higher blends of BD out of the factory. ”Some engine companies have already specified that the biodiesel must meet ASTM D-6751 as a condition, while others are still in the process of adopting D-6751 within their company or have their own set of guidelines for biodiesel use that were developed prior to the approval of D-6751. It is anticipated that the entire industry will incorporate the ASTM biodiesel standard into their owner’s manuals over time.” (National Biodiesel Board)
Ignoring the warranty related issues, which can cause consumers to avoid BD, most engines manufactured after 1993 been constructed with gaskets and seals that are BD resistant. Most current PD storage tanks in cars and distribution facilities can store B100 without materials compatibility problems. Fuel pump hoses and seals have commonly been the components degraded from higher BD blends, but the manufacturer switch to components suitable for Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) has caused a concurrent switch to components that are suitable for use with BD. One necessary addition to the infrastructure for B100 distribution in cold climates is heated storage tanks. However, they are not necessary with low percentage blends.
The ASTM also has biodiesel blend standards from B1 to B5 ASTM D 975-08A and B6 to B20 ASTM D 7567-08. Most companies want the ASTM D 6751 testing to insure the B100 is a quality biodiesel before blending it with diesel. ASTM D 6751 will be enforcing its cold standards on Oct 1. 2009 – The cold soak filtration tests is a good cold test indicator. Testing is the key to insure a quality product. Thanks for your post.