A new white paper published by Wilks Enterprise compares EN 14078 and ASTM D7371 methods for measuring the percent biodiesel in diesel fuel. While both methods measure the amount of infrared absorption at a wavelength specific for the biodiesel measurement, each has disadvantages.
This white paper discusses each method and presents a simplified infrared measurement technique that incorporates the most trouble-free portions of EN 14078 and ASTM D7371 in a portable filter-based analyser to provide an easy-to-use, reliable analytical technique for checking biodiesel blend.
Portable analysers can provide verification that the percent biodiesel complies with RFS2 (renewable fuel standard). They also give fuel blenders and transporters a quick check to ensure accurate blends with a rapid, on-site measurement that can be done by non-technical personnel. To make a measurement, place the sample on the analyser’s sample plate, select ‘run’ and the result is displayed within a minute. The plate is cleaned and the analyser is ready for the next sample.
Portable infrared analyzers such as the InfraCal biodiesel blend analyser offer a simple, accurate and low-cost solution to on-site blend testing at locations such as the blending rack. The resulting costs of an incorrect blend can far out way the modest cost of an on-site biodiesel blend analyser. With many already in use at petroleum terminals and by regulatory agencies, the InfraCal biodiesel blend analyser has proven to be a reliable tool to ensure blend accuracy.