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Biodiesel Test * USA - The 2 Million Mile Haul
IO,USA -Practical Environmentalist, by Steve Watkins -January 2, 2008: -- Iowa Central Community College and Decker Truck Line, Inc, Renewable Energy Group, Caterpillar Engine Company, the Iowa Soybean Association, the National Biodiesel Board, and the U. S. Department of Agriculture all joined together for an extensive study of the long term effects of B20 biodiesel in big trucks over a two year period... The study consists of a control group with 10 units and a matching B20 test group, for a total of 20 units (Table 1). All units have a Peterbilt chassis with C-13 Caterpillar engines (2006 model) and 9-speed transmissions. The control and test group each contain one unit with an engine that complies with the new 2007 emissions requirements. All units are running with flatbed trailers on matched routes to either Minneapolis or Chicago. The control group uses 100% #2 petroleum diesel whereas the B20 test group uses a blend of 20% soy biodiesel with 80% #2 petroleum diesel. Data is routinely collected and analyzed for fuel efficiency, maintenance records, and fuel quality. At the conclusion of the study, it is anticipated that several control and test engines will be dismantled and analyzed for engine wear... So after the first year of testing things look hopeful. The reduction in efficiency was insignificant and the increased maintenance will likely be greatly reduced by better blending techniques that are being tested over this winter. Tests are scheduled to conclude in October 2008...
Labels: biodiesel tests
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