Biodiesel Reactor Modifications

The Future Fueler’s project has the goal of developing safer and more efficient ways to create biodiesel on the University of Idaho campus.

Problem Definition
Using the current process used to create biodiesel at the University of Idaho we need to shorten the time for reaction, while adhering to safety concerns. To do this we will need to find an effective way to heat the reactants from room temperature to 60 degrees Celsius, create a system for introducing the reactants to the reactor, and condense off the excess methanol that is present. In order to accomplish this we will need to safely implement systems compatible with the biodiesel.

Deliverables
The Future Fueler’s must be capable of accomplishing a series of tasks including:


 * Heating 20°C-60°C
 * Adding Pumps for Oil, Sodium Methylate, and Methanol
 * A Condensing System for Excess Methanol