Biodiesel Reactor Modifications

The University of Idaho has been a pioneer in producing bio-fuels and developing better methods for many years. Currently, the process is outdated and unsafe. Our task is to add heat and introduce chemicals in a safer and more accurate way.

Problem Definition
The University of Idaho currently uses a pilot-scale biodiesel reactor for research and production of biodiesel. Our objective is to shorten the time for reaction, while adhering to any 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 systems compatible with the biodiesel will need to be safely implemented.

Background
As fuel prices rise, the United States continually consumes fuel at an astronomical rate. We are presented with a problem because our main fuel sources are non renewable. The Biological and Agricultural Engineering Department at the University of Idaho has been doing research on biodiesel for many years now as well as supplying biofuel for cars on campus. They are continuously improving and this years team of students are to be implementing faster and more safe ways to operate our current biodiesel reactor.

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

Project Learning
Biodiesel is made through a chemical reaction where a catalyst reacts lipids with alcohol. This Process requires continuous mixing and heat. This process also has a by product of glycerin which can be reused in other applications including but not limited to in cosmetic, medical and household. In order to minimize the "soap" (a product of water being present in the system) production in this production the team of Biodiesel Scientist at the University of Idaho have decided to use Sodium methyl-ate as the catalyst, methanol as the alcohol and waste vegetable oil as the lipid.

Overview of Design
Biodiesel Reactor Main Components •	Introduction of Material •	Introduction Pump •	Tubing •	Way to Measure •	Recirculation for Heating •	Heat Exchanger •	Pump with Tubing

Two introduction systems
Waste Vegetable Oil •	   In order to save cost we will be using the gear pump that we already have access to for introducing the viscous oil into the reactor tank. •	Sodium Methylate and Methanol •	   Since they come shipped in 55 gallon barrels we will use a drum pump for simplicity and interchangeability for each reagent, which requires cleaning between each process to avoid cross contamination.

Introduction Pumps
The introduction pump will only be used for introduction of Sodium Methylate and Methanol into the system. •½ HP, 6.3 amps, 115 Volts •5 foot discharge tube, EPDM material •18 pounds •May need an adapter to the drum opening because it requires a fine threaded opening •For sanitary reasons and interchangeability there will be a quick disconnect to already installed pipes in each barrel.

Heat Exchanger
•	Supplier: Duda Diesel •	It is a 90 plate heat exchanger with 1.5" ports and can handle a max flow rate of 53 gpm •	Price: $487 including shipping

We will be using the steam generator from the biodiesel cleaning system. Hoses are already installed on steam generator for the heat exchanger. Sanitary fittings will be added to the hoses for a quick-disconnect from the heat exchanger

Recirculation Pump
TEFC motor​ National Electric Code 500.5​ Class I Division II​ Capacity​ 50 GPM​ 28Ft of head​ Chemical Compatibility​ Wetted parts are Stainless Steel​

Recirculation Fittings
Sanitary Fittings ​ •1 ½” Welded Ferrule’s​ •1 ½” Sanitary Ferrule Clamps ​ •O-Ring Gaskets made from EPDM which is a compatible with all materials ​ Note: Sanitary fittings will be welded to the end of each section of tubing to allow quick and easy disassembly of the entire system for cleaning.​ Adapters ​ •1 ¼” to 1 ½” concentric expander at pump outlet​ 1 ¼" NPT to sanitary clamp fitting​ Note: All metal fitting materials are Stainless Steel and compatible with the working fluids and will be ordered from VNE Stainless.

Introduction Scale Metering
More accurate​ No need for all stainless steel components​ Pumping air will not affect measurement​ Ready computer output​ Cost effective

Arduino VFD Controls
•	Monitor the temperature using thermocouple •	Enter value of temperature into Arduino •	Arduino will tell the VFD to speed the pump up if temperature to cool and slow down if temperature is too hot

Test Plan
•	Water run •	Thermocouples •	Introduction Scale calibration •	Pump Testing •	Make sure VFD is controlled correctly •	Trouble shoot parts •	Build Assembly by April 8th