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Jerry Kiersey explains his experiences converting nine trucks to rapeseed oil.
Page 44
Page 45
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"The truck starts on diesel. When the engine has warmed up it switches to rapeseed. Depending on the system, this is either automatic or requires action by the driver. Starting on diesel means it must finish on diesel or problems can arise when starting in cold weather.
"The oil requires a special storage tank as it will degrade in the wrong tank over time. The fuel pump needs a three-phase power supply. Normal nozzles will not cut off so it is vital to fit a suitable nozzle. Many of our engine thermostats were not operating properly so had to be changed. Reaching the correct engine temperature quickly ensures the most efficient fuel use. 'The truck will require a tank holding around 100 litres of diesel in addition to its main tank.
"Care must be taken over the quaky of piping and hose clips and the fitting of an accessible pre-filter. Ensure the fuel supplier supplies certified quality fuel, which will be filtered to the correct standard.
The fuel gauges monitor rapeseed oil levels and the indicators for the diesel supply need understanding, a drawback on both systems we have tried. Drivers will require training. If they are not familiar with the system they will assume the fuel gauges are indicating all levels, which can lead to the truck running on the smaller diesel tank until it runs dry. This will cause airlocks while the main tanks are still full of rapeseed oil. "Rapeseed oil is biodegradable and does not harm plants or animals..
"Apart from the savings to the individual operator, consider the following. Ireland emits 70 million tonnes of CO, a year. Switching 16,000 long distance lorries to rapeseed will save almost five million tonnes of CO, a year or 7% of our emissions, thus saving 100 million tonnes in carbon credits at €20 a tonne. Conversions are carried out by UK-based Regenatec, which guarantees the work against the manufacturers' warranty."
The comments in this panel first appeared in a supplement to Ireland's Fleet magazine. CM is grateful for permission to reproduce them here.