One of the biggest dilemmas is deciding between biodiesel and diesel for trucking and heavy equipment.
Diesel fuel has been the primary fuel for diesel engines for decades. For diesel engine owners, the question remains: Is biodiesel better, or is regular diesel the superior choice? And will biodiesel impact the performance or longevity of diesel engines? The answer depends on understanding the advantages and disadvantages of these fuels and how they affect machine and equipment efficiency.
When discussing biodiesel, it’s important to understand how it differs significantly from standard diesel fuel. Biodiesel is a fuel made from sources such as algae, animal fats, or vegetable oil. It is typically produced through a chemical transesterification process, where glycerin is removed from fats and oils to create biodiesel and glycerin. The final product, 100 percent pure biodiesel (B100), is compatible with regular diesel in any ratio.
Among the common blends, B5 (5 percent biodiesel and 95 percent diesel) and B20 (20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent diesel) are the most used. Of the two, B5 is more commonly used because it offers better fuel efficiency and compatibility with standard diesel engines.
The benefit of biodiesel lies in its versatility. It can be processed to operate diesel engines effectively. Biodiesel emits less soot, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide compared to diesel fuel, which contributes to better engine performance. Additionally, biodiesel contains a higher oxygen content, resulting in more complete combustion. Another advantage of biodiesel is its ability to degrade more quickly in case of a spill, making it a practical choice for occupations like roadwork, heavy machinery operations, and farm work.
While biodiesel offers advantages, it also comes with challenges for diesel motors. Biodiesel is heavier and denser than conventional diesel, making it more prone to filter and pumping issues. It can also lead to flow problems, particularly in colder climates, where biodiesel may gel and clog filters. Additionally, biodiesel has a lower energy content than standard diesel, which can result in reduced speed and shorter mileage. Although the overall mileage impact may seem minimal, it becomes noticeable over time, especially in demanding trucking or machinery applications.
Another consideration is the potential for biodiesel to damage engine components. As a solvent, biodiesel breaks down fuel system deposits, which can be beneficial in the short term but may damage injectors and filters over time. Furthermore, biodiesel can degrade rubber hoses and seals, leading to leaks or other engine issues unless the engine is specifically designed to handle biodiesel blends.
Despite the discussions surrounding biodiesel, diesel fuel remains the most reliable option for powering diesel engines. Diesel offers intrinsic advantages that make it the preferred choice for trucking, transport vans, and heavy equipment. Its high energy density provides better fuel efficiency and ensures superior performance, especially for heavy and extensive equipment use. The greater energy density of diesel is a critical factor, making it worth the investment in such applications.
Diesel fuel also performs better in cold weather compared to biodiesel. While biodiesel can freeze and cause operational issues, diesel remains more stable and lubricates well in low temperatures, ensuring smooth operation during winter months. Diesel engines are less prone to complications associated with alternative fuels, resulting in longer engine life and consistent performance.
Furthermore, diesel fuel is widely available, with fueling stations and storage facilities conveniently located across most regions. In contrast, biodiesel blends are not yet as widely dispersed or as affordable, making plain diesel fuel the more practical and accessible choice for many users.
Many believe biodiesel won’t work in their diesel engines, but that’s a misconception. Most newer diesel engines can handle biodiesel blends, particularly lower concentrations such as B5 or B20. These blends have been thoroughly tested and are safe for use in standard diesel engines. However, higher concentrations like B100 or 100 percent biodiesel may require modifications to the fuel system or engine.
Older diesel engines, especially those built before 1994, may not be compatible with higher biodiesel blends due to the failure of plastic and rubber components in the fuel system. However, using blends like B5 or B20 in these engines is typically safe. To ensure compatibility, it’s always a good idea to consult the owner’s manual as a precaution to protect your equipment.
Biodiesel also burns cleaner compared to traditional diesel fuel, which can help maintain engine performance over time and reduce wear. For those concerned about performance and mileage, biodiesel blends provide a reliable alternative without compromising functionality.
When deciding between biodiesel and diesel, it ultimately depends on your priorities. Biodiesel offers a cleaner fuel with lower emissions, making it a good option for businesses looking to meet environmental standards. However, if performance, reliability, and cost are more important, traditional diesel is often the better choice. Diesel engines are optimized to run on diesel fuel, providing peak efficiency and performance, especially in heavy-duty applications or extreme conditions.
Blends like B5 and B20 provide a middle ground by offering cleaner fuel without completely sacrificing performance. However, they may still fall short of diesel in terms of power and efficiency, particularly in colder climates or demanding work environments. Always consider your equipment, weather conditions, and the specific needs of your work when choosing the right fuel for your rig.
