With red diesel prices approaching 50ppl biodiesel is looking
more attractive as a tractor fuel, although is still not
economically viable.
As sponsor for the NAAC
conference,
New Holland’s Ron
Perera presented the company’s position on biodiesel’s use in
farming.
“All of our research and development is focused on meeting
strict new emissions controls,” he said.
“But keeping down carbon dioxide emissions is virtually
impossible if you’re burning a carbon-based fuel.
“The only option is to use a fuel that has captured CO2 from the
atmosphere in its production - and is ‘carbon neutral’ – such as
biodiesel from rapeseed oil.”
But there are limitations in its use, he warns. To meet New
Holland’s (and most other manufacturers’) warranty requirements
biodiesel must be tested to meet European EN14214 standards.
Users must also change engine oil more frequently as rape methyl
ester (RME as biodiesel is also known) can dilute lubricants.
Filters also need to be swapped more often to strain out any
leftover glycerine.
“Biodiesel is a first generation biofuel – it takes energy to
produce and isn’t a consistent, standardised product,” said Mr
Perera.
“Until more sophisticated renewable fuels come on-stream, we’re
looking into a short term solution with straight vegetable oil –
SVO – like
Deutz.”
BIODIESEL IMPACTS
· 10% less power
· 2-3% greater fuel consumption
· Cost?
· Higher cetane number = improved lubricity/smoother
running
· Limited shelf-life - prone to oxidation and water
absorption
Does Biodiesel help the environment?
Burning RME reduces carbon monoxide, particulate and
hydro-carbon emissions but increases the output of NOx (nitrogen
oxides). The way New Holland (and many other engine manufacturers)
deal with this is through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). A small
proportion (about 10%) of exhaust gases are cooled and diverted
back into the inlet manifold. This reduces combustion temperature
which helps to lower NOx emissions.
Did you know?
India and China are the two fastest growing tractor markets in
the world but are not governed by any emissions regulations,
allowing manufacturers to sell unregulated engines in their
millions, pumping out a vast proportion of the world’s greenhouse
gases. This is one of the reasons why the US and Australia object
to the Kyoto agreement. China and India are reported to be coming
round to the idea of being seen as environmentally responsible and
are likely to be included in the next round of WTO environmental
talks.