When choosing a diesel heater for off-grid use, it is crucial to consider the different fuel types that can be used in the unit. As Wallas-Marin is constantly looking for ways to make greener products, it has already moved on to technologies, which allow the use of renewable fuels in its products. Wallas Greenboost burner burns fossil-free diesel slower resulting in ultra-low emissions, yet with more efficiency and power. Wallas products manufactured today are already equipped to burn renewable diesel types that are in the pipeline for future.
With the growing desire to keep our environments clean for us and the generations to come, more and more boaters are choosing fossil-free fuels. However, many don’t understand the differences between traditional biodiesel and renewable diesel. They are actually two completely different diesel types and cannot be used equally. Wallas-Marin has tested its products with Neste to optimize the Wallas Greenboost burner to burn renewable diesel due to its numerous benefits to the unit and environment.
Renewable diesel, also called HVO diesel (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) is one of the cleanest fuels available that eliminates up to 90% of net CO2.
Renewable diesel (HVO), a second generation biodiesel, is an extremely clean fuel made 100% of renewable materials, such as vegetable oils and fats. The hydrotreating process removes all impurities from the fuel, which results in cleaner burning and fewer emissions. It can be used as is (drop-in alternative to fossil diesel) without amending the fuel burning unit, because it has a similar chemical composition as fossil diesel. Due to these properties, it can also be mixed with fossil diesel, so you can simply top up your existing tank. However, the best results are found when it is used as a stand-alone fuel. Since impurities have been removed, renewable diesel does not attract water, which would contaminate the fuel with microbial growth. Furthermore, it does not react with oxygen or form sludge, allowing it to be stored for extended periods of time. The excellent temperature performance of renewable diesel is also equal to highest-quality fossil diesels. Wallas-Marin recommends Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ as it is made for very cold, even arctic conditions.
Diesel heater installation can be incorporated into the existing fuel tank of the boat or camper van, which is why it is important to choose a fuel type that can be safely run in your vessel/vehicle and the Wallas unit. Reach out to your Wallas distributor to get more information on where to purchase renewable diesel and how to transition from fossil diesel to a more greener option.
Biodiesel is nontoxic and biodegradable but it is not recommended
First-generation, traditional biodiesel, also called FAME (Fatty Acid Methyl Ester), is produced by esterifying vegetable oils and fats. It increases lubricity and provides a higher cetane number than standard diesel, but lacks many of the benefits of renewable diesel. The cetane rating is a common measurement of fuel quality, which indicates how well the fuel burns. Higher number means shorter ignition in cold weather and more efficient combustion. Standard diesel has a rating of 40-50, while biodiesel is higher in the 50-60 category, but renewable diesel has a significantly higher rating of 70. Biodiesel has a chemical composition that differs from both fossil and renewable diesel and it cannot be used as stand-alone fuel. Traditional biodiesel is an esther, which may cause engine problems, and this is why it must be blended with other petroleum products. Traditional biodiesel can also absorb water and can cause diesel bug and contamination of the fuel while in storage. For all these reasons, Wallas-Marin does not recommend the use of traditional biodiesel (FAME) in its products. Safe renewable diesel (HVO) is the most viable option for the units as well as for the environment, followed by fossil diesel as a second best option.
Read More: Neste MY Renewable Diesel™
