Biodiesel flow diagram

Figure 7 depicts a simplified block flow diagram (BFD) for a typical biodiesel production process using base catalysis. In the first step, methanol and catalyst (NaOH) are mixed with the aim to create the active methoxide ions (Figure 4, step 1(b)). Then, the oil and the methanol-catalyst solution are transferred to the main reactor where the transesterification reaction occurs. Once the reaction has finished, two distinct phases are formed with the less dense (top) phase containing the ester products and unreacted oil as well as some residual methanol, glycerol, and catalyst. The denser (bottom) layer is mainly composed of glycerin and methanol, but ester residues as well as most of the catalyst, water, and soap can also be found in this layer. 

Figure 14.2 Batch-process flow diagram for biodiesel manufacturing.

Fig. 34.36. Basic flow diagram of Crown biodiesel ester process. (Courtesy of Crown Iron Works, Minneapolis, MN.)...

Figure 3. Biodiesel production schematic as taught in US Patent 6,262,285. Flow diagram shows the vessels and devices included in the invention required to mix, react, heat, separate glycerine, recover solvents, and dry solvents for reuse.

Figure 9. A simplified block flow diagram of the heterogeneous acid solid-catalyzed process for the production of biodiesel.

The oscillatory baffle reactor/oscillatory flow reactor (OBR/OFR) types are seen as for niche applications, where one wants to convert a long residence time batch process to a continuous one. In the case of biodiesel, Dr Harvey indicates that a conversion could be carried out in 10 minntes, compared to 1-6 hours in continnons indnstrial processes. One variant is shown, by means of a flow diagram, in Figure 10.20, while Figure 10.21 shows components of the OFR. The aim is to make the plant portable so that it will fit into a standard shipping container. The unit could be sold worldwide to, for example, formers to produce their own fuel locally. 

Figure 1. Process flow diagram for (com oil based) biodiesel production.

A simplified process flow diagram for the biodiesel process is shown in Figure 6.6. Prior to the transesterification reactions and after oil extraction, the oil may need to be refined to remove gums and free fatty acids. Free fatty acids may develop under the influence of heat, water, and sometimes naturally occurring enzymes. Because a base catalyst is usually used for the transesterification reaction, the free fatty acids may react with the catalyst to form soap via the reaction ... 

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