Generators have a large outreach and are used throughout the world. From basic portable generators that can provide additional resources in power outages, to large buildings such as hospitals and schools that need a back-up power solution. Whatever the requirement most of these generators require diesel to operate.

As a solution to the current scarcity of fossil fuels, many alternatives to petrol and diesel are becoming more and more common, whilst being much more environmentally friendly.

So, What Is Bio Diesel?

Bio diesel was created in 1895 by Dr. Rudolf Diesel. This involved using vegetable oil fuel, which was widely available since agriculture crops was the source of fuel. As oppose to diesel that would require transportation to remote areas.

Vegetable oil can be extracted from soybeans, rape seeds and sunflower seeds. Once it has been converted into its almost final stage, it can be processed further in order to reduce its viscosity. This can now allow for it to be used in conventional diesel engines and generators. Without any modifications.

It then becomes bio diesel by reacting vegetable oil and alcohol in the presence of a catalyst.

We are all aware of the downsides of using diesel. This includes such things as the carbon dioxide being produced when burned. Whereas alternate fuels such as bio diesel has passed health effect testing requirements and meeting many clean air acts. It must be looked further in-depth in order to establish a better understanding of the benefits and downsides when considering bio diesel as an alternative to diesel.

What Are The Advantages?

Here's a quick overview of the benefits of using bio diesel over conventional fossil fuels:

• Bio diesel is a renewable fuel, with infinite potential.

• Can be produced using mainly by-products from other industries.

• Emissions are much greater for the environment.

• Have less wear and tear on engines, due to increased lubricity.

• Can be used in a large number of diesel engines and generators.

• Biodegradable.

• Non-toxic and much safer to handle, than conventional diesel.

What Are The Disadvantages?

• Unfortunately there are many areas that bio diesel is not able to compete with conventional diesel, although these factors may only impact specific uses and people. Here's a quick overview of the disadvantages:

• Bio diesel degrades quickly, and does not have a shelf life as great as diesel.

• It can be common to see reduced levels of power and this can result in increased fuel consumption.

• Can be more expensive and difficult to source, due to poor infrastructure for bio fuel distribution.

• Bio fuel can degrade rubber, a greater amount that regular diesel would.

Bio diesel, although has a few limiting factors can be used as a great alternative with diesel generators. The next time you require a generator consider researching into this area further and see for yourself the benefits that a bio diesel generator can bring.