Biodiesel is readily available and well understood. This manufactured, renewable hydrocarbon is made from any type of trans-fatty acid – i.e. sunflower oil, soy oil or even used fryer oil. Biodiesel is commonly misrepresented as used fryer oil, but is a VERY different fuel. Biodiesel is a direct, drop-in replacement for regular diesel, and rarely requires any modifications to the engine. Biodiesel has a slightly lower BTU ratio than petroleum Diesel. However, Biodiesel carries its own oxygen atoms within the molecule, so the resulting power output is commensurate with Diesel.
The sustain the Train group has been in contact with several biodiesel suppliers around the Country, and they have abundant fuel available at good prices.
Biodiesel is a real possibility for the Durango Train. However, there are some serious challenges that would need to be dealt with.
The big advantages of Biodiesel:
However, CNG is not without its challenges: