OTTAWA — The Canadian Trucking Alliance says it has partnered with the Government of Canada and the Canadian Petroleum Products Institute for a study to better understand the technical issues related to renewable diesel.

The study, funded by the Government of Canada’s National Renewable Diesel Demonstration Initiative and industry partners, examined the storage and use of heating and transportation fuel containing biodiesel, as well as formulate guidelines to help assure biodiesel product quality and reliability, which could be used by standard setting bodies to set specifications that will ensure fuel products are fit for service.

Specifically, the study found that long-term furnace oil performance was negligibly impacted by biodiesel up to B10; long-term storage stability of biodiesel can be assured through commercially available oxidation control additives.

On the issue of compatibility with engine performance during harsh winter weather — which is of particular concern to the CTA — the study concluded that limiting the level of saturated monoglycerides (SMGs) in biodiesel helps maintain adequate fuel flow.

The report emphasized the impact SMGs have on waxing, gelling and phase separation of biodiesel above cloud point in cold Canadian climates and the effect on operability issues like fuel filter plugging.

As part of the study, 2004-2005 model year heavy trucks using B5 were examined in an "All-Weather Chassis Dynamometer." At -16 C, a spiked SMG content of 250 mg/L resulted in operability failure; 200 mg/L led to fuel filter pressure dropping and restricted fuel recirculation, while at 150 mg/L saw similar results without the lack of recirculation.

Furthermore, due to the high melting point of SMG components, the SMG on the fuel filter did not re-dissolve in the fuel as it warmed up, either via fuel circulation or by letting the fuel warm up to ambient conditions.

CPPI President, Peter Boag, says the findings underscore the importance of completing technical feasibility studies before introducing a new fuel product to Canadians.

"The results can be used to direct renewable diesel blending formulation, and by Standard setting bodies, such as the Canadian General Standards Board to ensure the new fuels meet consumer’s needs," said Mr. Boag. 

Biodiesel has gotten a lot of attention in Canada over the last year, as both B.C. and Manitoba have implemented somewhat flawed biodiesel mandates and Canada ponders doing the same, nationally.

CTA continues to be involved in the study of renewable diesel and its potential impact on the trucking industry.

The report is available online by clicking here.