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Biodiesel mileage - biodiesel has a slightly lower energy content that petrodiesel, causing a small loss in mpg and injector build-up can also contribute to this problem.
Biodiesel has a lower energy content than petrodiesel. According to the EPA, plant-based biodiesel averages 4.6% less energy per gallon, animal-based 10.6% less per gallon. That means if you multiply the percentage of a biodiesel blend by 4.6% (we'll use this because the majority of biodiesel is made from plant oils), it will equal the percentage of miles per gallon that will be lost.
• For Example:
If you were using a B20 blend you would figure 20% X 4.6%.
Multiply (0.20 X 0.046).
This gives you (0.0092).
Move the decimal point to the right two places, which gives you (0.92).
This means you can expect to see your mpg decrease 0.92%.
And if you were using a B5 blend, (5% X 4.6%) means you are decreasing your MPG by 0.23%.
B100? A decrease of 4.6%.
• Decreased mileage can be caused by deposit build-up in the engine. A
new test (as of 2008)
(opens in a new window) has been developed.
This test represents the modern turbo-charged/ common-rail/ electronic/ direct-injection diesel engine.
This test can be used for researching injector build up.
• The use of detergent additives (used widely in Europe) can resolve combustion performance issues, and has the potential to fix power loss as well.
• Some modern direct injection engines that run at hotter temperatures have been reported to have problems with build-up. Whereas the older indirect injection engines, which run at lower temperatures, tend to receive benefits from the biodiesel's solvent and lubricating properties.
When comparing biodiesel mileage to petro diesel mileage, don't forget to factor in the fuel cost difference. If you are able to get biodiesel 5% cheaper than petrodiesel, you are traveling the same distance at the for about the same cost.
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