Should I use biodiesel?

Commercial benefit

Biodiesel is cheaper than mineral diesel. With fuel bills representing up to 45% of an operator's costs, using biodiesel will enable savings to be made.
(See potential savings...)

Environmental benefit

The environmental benefits of using biodiesel will enhance the operator´s reputation.

Better ignition and combustion

Biodiesel has better ignition and combustion characteristics (due to higher Cetane Index), which allows the engine to run more smoothly with less of the "knocking" sounds typical of diesel engines.

Reduces exhaust emissions

Biodiesel substantially reduces exhaust emissions (unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and particulate matter). It contains naturally occurring oxygen, which enables the fuel to burn more completely and all but eliminate the black smoke normally associated with diesel engines. There may be a slight increase in NOx emissions but this is dependent on the engine type and its operating environment.

Improves lubricity & reduces engine wear

Biodiesel has very good intrinsic lubrication properties. Even blends as low as B1 (1% in ULSD) can improve the lubricity in highly de-sulphurised mineral diesel. In engines approved for operation with B100 biodiesel, the engine wear is significantly reduced.

Fuel consumption

Using Biodiesel as a B20 or B30 blend (20 / 30% mix with normal diesel) has no reported effect on fuel consumption. Some operators have even suggested it actually improves fuel consumption. There may be a slight increase in fuel consumption when using B100 pure biodiesel, however the effects are mitigated by the improved ignition and combustion qualities of biodiesel.

Safer, biodegradable and non toxic

Biodiesel has a higher flashpoint than mineral diesel. It is also readily biodegradable and non toxic, which makes it a safer and more environmentally friendly fuel to handle, particularly in sensitive areas.

Sulphur free

Biodiesel is naturally free of sulphur and so produces no sulphur dioxide, considered to be one of the main precursors to acid rain.

Carbon dioxide neutral

Biodiesel is made from renewable resources, which means it reduces the contribution of carbon dioxide (one of the main greenhouse gases) to the atmosphere.