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
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