According to the Ohio Soybean Council, spring is a vital time for routine maintenance of soy biodiesel fuel storage systems. At this time of year, storage tanks are more susceptible to moisture contamination due to temperature fluctuations. So, it is essential that soy biodiesel fuel handlers monitor their storage systems and take steps to ensure fuel quality.

“Anyone working with soy biodiesel needs to have a fuel tank maintenance program,” says Tom Fontana of the Ohio Soybean Council. “From the fuel distributors who handle large quantities of soy biodiesel to the farmers who often store their soy biodiesel in tanks, taking the right steps works to ensure fuel quality.”

According to the National Biodiesel Board, above-ground storage systems present their own contamination challenges. At this time of year, sunshine increases the temperature of the tank and forces air out of the tank throughout the day. Then, in the evening, as the tank cools air is drawn into the tank which leads to water accumulation. This phenomenon will result in higher than normal concentrations of moisture in above-ground storage tanks, compared to underground storage tanks where temperatures are more stable.

To help combat the challenges of potential moisture contamination, the Steel Tank Institute recommends implementing a sound fuel quality management program. Additionally, the National Biodiesel Board offers several important tips, such as keeping tanks topped off whenever possible, regularly evaluating water accumulation in tanks, conducting a quarterly microbial evaluation, and asking for fuel specifications from suppliers.

As use of biodiesel fuels has increased over the past few years, so has the industry’s commitment to establishing and maintaining the highest quality standards for their product. For instance, in 2000, the National Biodiesel Board established the BQ-9000 certification program for biodiesel producers and marketers. BQ-9000 is a voluntary fuel quality control program designed to ensure that biodiesel is produced according to the nationally accepted standard, ASTM D 6751. The program covers procedures for fuel storage, handling and management, all focused on maintaining fuel quality throughout the distribution system. All biodiesel producers and marketers are encouraged to earn certification under the BQ-9000 program.

Headquartered in Columbus, the Ohio Soybean Council is governed by an 17- member volunteer farmer board, which directs the Soybean Promotion and Research Program. The program’s primary goal is to improve soybean profitability by targeting research and development projects through the investment of farmer-contributed funds.