Re: making a processor

On 2/19/08, John Harris <[email protected]> wrote:
> I plan to build my own processor. I am thinking about using a plastic tank that
> has a cone shap bottom as the processor.  I have also considered using a
> aluminum tank for the processor, plastic to mix the methanol with KOH.

Those plastic tanks are nice, although you will not be able to heat in
a plastic tank to sufficient temperatures for water removal, methanol
recovery, etc. In fact it is best to heat in another metal container
and then pump into the plastic container when you are ready to
process. All in all .... plastic is a pain.

Aluminium tanks are just not an option as caustics and aluminium do
not go together. Although aluminium tanks are just fine for finished,
soap free fuel.

You best option is to get an old water heater or steel 55 gallon drum,
the drum is the cheapest option but also might need a bit of welding
if you do it right. The water heater could be free or could cost you.

The plus side is that a water heater is already insulated, has heater
ports (only use the bottom one), pressure rated with a safety relief
valve (although you will not be processing under pressure) and can
even withstand a fairly strong vacuum (distillation).

> I hear that stainles steal is best but that seems expensive to me.
> Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

Stainless is the best choice. Although you are correct when you say
that it is expensive. The cheapest way to get into a "small" stainless
processor is to utilize a beer keg. This option requires welding, but
produces a very nice processor suited for 10 gal batches, acid
esterifcation, vacuum distillation, passive heating, easy to insulate,
doesn't take up much space ... everything.

--
Jeff Brandt
Sun Break Biofuels, LLC
http://www.sunbreakbiofuels.com
mailto:[email protected]