Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Keith, Thanks for this answer and all the other information/answers you seem to find the time to provide everyone (how did you manage to get 36 hour days to get done all that you seem to accomplish?). You hit the nail on the head, I wasn't picturing 2 tanks for the methanol process. Here goes the setup and hopefully with success on this something a little more permanent. Regards, John Date: Wed, 21 Sep 2005 22:33:09 +0900 From: Keith Addison [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Message-ID: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii ; format=flowed Hello John Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them at the required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of the container it comes in into the mixing container to the required volume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plastic bags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so that there's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then add it to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purpose won't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature and it's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a 2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH in from its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy way http://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymeth Then pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined to electric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flame under them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating the oil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanol involved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably be a bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heating element, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Try to get one that fits (unlike ours!). Best wishes Keith Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Cheers for the info, I will drop into the local hardware store and see what I can find -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of bob allen Sent: Thursday, September 22, 2005 9:01 AM To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed I use a stainless steel element purchased at a local hardware store for under 10 bucks. It is designed for a 240 volt system, but I run it at 110 thru a variac. It has worked flawlessly for over 18 months, in weekly use. Zeke Yewdall wrote: How about standard water heater elements? You might be able to get stainless steel ones for the higher quality tanks, or if not, the cheap ones are only about $10, so replace them every 10 batches or something. I know, throwing away stuff is not what we are going for here, but it's an idea to get it started till you can find something better. Zeke On 9/21/05, Darryl West [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Guys, I am at the same point as you John trying to get a 5 Gallon processor going. I have found getting a submersible heating element a hassle. Can anyone suggest a place to get an old (or maybe new) element as I have looked around and haven't come across anything! (I am most likely looking in the wrong places) Cheers Darryl -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Keith Addison Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 11:33 PM To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed Hello John Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them at the required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of the container it comes in into the mixing container to the required volume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plastic bags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so that there's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then add it to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purpose won't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature and it's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a 2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH in from its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy way http://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymeth Then pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined to electric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flame under them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating the oil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanol involved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably be a bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heating element, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Try to get one that fits (unlike ours!). Best wishes Keith Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ -- Bob Allen http://ozarker.org/bob Science is what we have learned about how to keep from fooling ourselves
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Darryl, Try a dog water bowl heater from the pet store theyre not EXPENSIVE but theyre not couch money either. its designed for pets living outdoors during cold seasons, i believe they can heat to 120* F . or try a 120V water heater element (about $20,00USD) itll need a mounting bracket, but you can put a thermostat on it, and they run about 1500 watts. jason From: Darryl West [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 3:24 PM Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed Hi Guys, I have found getting a submersible heating element a hassle. Can anyone suggest a place to get an old (or maybe new) element as I have looked around and haven't come across anything! --- [This E-mail scanned for viruses by Declude Virus] ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Try www.omega.com for stainless heater elements. Joe Zeke Yewdall wrote: How about standard water heater elements? You might be able to get stainless steel ones for the higher quality tanks, or if not, the cheap ones are only about $10, so replace them every 10 batches or something. I know, throwing away stuff is not what we are going for here, but it's an idea to get it started till you can find something better. Zeke On 9/21/05, Darryl West [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Guys, I am at the same point as you John trying to get a 5 Gallon processor going. I have found getting a submersible heating element a hassle. Can anyone suggest a place to get an old (or maybe new) element as I have looked around and haven't come across anything! (I am most likely looking in the wrong places) Cheers Darryl -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] On Behalf Of Keith Addison Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 11:33 PM To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed Hello John Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them at the required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of the container it comes in into the mixing container to the required volume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plastic bags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so that there's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then add it to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purpose won't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature and it's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a 2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH in from its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy way http://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymeth Then pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined to electric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flame under them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating the oil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanol involved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably be a bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heating element, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Try to get one that fits (unlike ours!). Best wishes Keith Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Heater elements are available from grainger industrial supply or mcmastercarr.com ether stainless steel or well elements for chemicals. But be prepared they ant cheep. From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Joe Street Sent: Thursday, September 22, 2005 8:44 AM To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed Try www.omega.com for stainless heater elements. Joe Zeke Yewdall wrote: How about standard water heater elements? You might be able to getstainless steel ones for the higher quality tanks, or if not, thecheap ones are only about $10, so replace them every 10 batches orsomething. I know, throwing away stuff is not what we are going forhere, but it's an idea to get it started till you can find somethingbetter.ZekeOn 9/21/05, Darryl West [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Guys,I am at the same point as you John trying to get a 5 Gallon processor going.I have found getting a submersible heating element a hassle. Can anyonesuggest a place to get an old (or maybe new) element as I have looked aroundand haven't come across anything! (I am most likely looking in the wrongplaces)CheersDarryl-Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED][mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] On Behalf Of Keith AddisonSent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 11:33 PMTo: Biofuel@sustainablelists.orgSubject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips neededHello John Greetings,I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myselfhanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going withsomething that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start.The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling themethanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxidetank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence.I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured andplaced into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them atthe required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of thecontainer it comes in into the mixing container to the requiredvolume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plasticbags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so thatthere's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then addit to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purposewon't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature andit's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH infrom its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy wayhttp://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymethThen pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking forpointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mixtank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element(electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this aswell. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined toelectric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flameunder them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating theoil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanolinvolved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably bea bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heatingelement, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Tryto get one that fits (unlike ours!).Best wishesKeith Thanks,John ___Biofuel mailing listBiofuel@sustainablelists.orghttp://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.orgBiofuel at Journey to Forever:http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.htmlSearch the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000messages):http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/___Biofuel mailing listBiofuel@sustainablelists.orghttp://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.orgBiofuel at Journey to Forever:http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.htmlSearch the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages):http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___Biofuel mailing listBiofuel@sustainablelists.orghttp://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.orgBiofuel at Journey to Forever:http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.htmlSearch the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages):http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail
[Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Hello John Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them at the required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of the container it comes in into the mixing container to the required volume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plastic bags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so that there's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then add it to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purpose won't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature and it's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a 2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH in from its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy way http://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymeth Then pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined to electric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flame under them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating the oil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanol involved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably be a bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heating element, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Try to get one that fits (unlike ours!). Best wishes Keith Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
Hi Guys, I am at the same point as you John trying to get a 5 Gallon processor going. I have found getting a submersible heating element a hassle. Can anyone suggest a place to get an old (or maybe new) element as I have looked around and haven't come across anything! (I am most likely looking in the wrong places) Cheers Darryl -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Keith Addison Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 11:33 PM To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed Hello John Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them at the required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of the container it comes in into the mixing container to the required volume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plastic bags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so that there's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then add it to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purpose won't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature and it's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a 2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH in from its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy way http://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymeth Then pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined to electric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flame under them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating the oil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanol involved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably be a bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heating element, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Try to get one that fits (unlike ours!). Best wishes Keith Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
How about standard water heater elements? You might be able to get stainless steel ones for the higher quality tanks, or if not, the cheap ones are only about $10, so replace them every 10 batches or something. I know, throwing away stuff is not what we are going for here, but it's an idea to get it started till you can find something better. Zeke On 9/21/05, Darryl West [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Guys, I am at the same point as you John trying to get a 5 Gallon processor going. I have found getting a submersible heating element a hassle. Can anyone suggest a place to get an old (or maybe new) element as I have looked around and haven't come across anything! (I am most likely looking in the wrong places) Cheers Darryl -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Keith Addison Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 11:33 PM To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed Hello John Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them at the required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of the container it comes in into the mixing container to the required volume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plastic bags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so that there's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then add it to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purpose won't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature and it's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a 2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH in from its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy way http://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymeth Then pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined to electric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flame under them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating the oil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanol involved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably be a bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heating element, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Try to get one that fits (unlike ours!). Best wishes Keith Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/
Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed
I use a stainless steel element purchased at a local hardware store for under 10 bucks. It is designed for a 240 volt system, but I run it at 110 thru a variac. It has worked flawlessly for over 18 months, in weekly use. Zeke Yewdall wrote: How about standard water heater elements? You might be able to get stainless steel ones for the higher quality tanks, or if not, the cheap ones are only about $10, so replace them every 10 batches or something. I know, throwing away stuff is not what we are going for here, but it's an idea to get it started till you can find something better. Zeke On 9/21/05, Darryl West [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Guys, I am at the same point as you John trying to get a 5 Gallon processor going. I have found getting a submersible heating element a hassle. Can anyone suggest a place to get an old (or maybe new) element as I have looked around and haven't come across anything! (I am most likely looking in the wrong places) Cheers Darryl -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Keith Addison Sent: Wednesday, September 21, 2005 11:33 PM To: Biofuel@sustainablelists.org Subject: Re: [Biofuel] Methanol handling tips needed Hello John Greetings, I'm finally finding the time to make a processor, but find myself hanging on a couple of points. First off I'm just going with something that resembles the 5gal processor listed on JTF to start. The problem is that I'm not grasping the process in handling the methanol and lye properly. The idea of forcing air into the methoxide tank thus forcing methoxide out other tube into processor makes sence. I just dont see where/how the methanol and lye are measured and placed into mixing container to begin with. Use translucent HDPE containers for mixing methanol and mark them at the required volume. Use the air pump to pump methanol out of the container it comes in into the mixing container to the required volume. Weight out the lye (or KOH), we measure it out into plastic bags on the scales (adjusted for the weight of the bag) so that there's minimal exposure to the air and moisture in the air. Then add it to the methanol mixing container. Opening the lid for this purpose won't expose you to fumes as the methanol is at room temperature and it's not being agitated. We use a funnel made from the top of a 2-litre PET bottle (the kind you buy water in) to pour the KOH in from its plastic bag. Mix it this way: Methoxide the easy way http://journeytoforever.org/biodiesel_aleksnew.html#easymeth Then pump it into the processor with the air-pump. So, I'm looking for pointers on how others measure and handle these to get them into mix tank. Additonally, I'm not sure what to use for heating element (electric at this point) so would appreciate any insight on this as well. With the 5-gal processor type you're more or less confined to electric heating, those cans don't last very long with an open flame under them. You can only use an open heat source for pre-heating the oil anyway - no more open flames as soon as there's any methanol involved. Maybe a heat exchanger would do, but that would probably be a bit of a hassle in only a 5-gal can. Get a submersion heating element, stainless steel, about 1.5 kw should do or maybe less. Try to get one that fits (unlike ours!). Best wishes Keith Thanks, John ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list archives (50,000 messages): http://www.mail-archive.com/biofuel@sustainablelists.org/ -- Bob Allen http://ozarker.org/bob Science is what we have learned about how to keep from fooling ourselves - Richard Feynman ___ Biofuel mailing list Biofuel@sustainablelists.org http://sustainablelists.org/mailman/listinfo/biofuel_sustainablelists.org Biofuel at Journey to Forever: http://journeytoforever.org/biofuel.html Search the combined Biofuel and Biofuels-biz list
