The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers has revised its standard for testing biodiesel fuel.

ASAE EP552.1, Reporting of Fuel Properties when Testing Diesel Engines with Alternative Fuels Derived from Plant Oils and Animal Fats, covers the reporting of testing of any alternative fuels derived from plant oils and their blends with petroleum diesel for use in diesel engines.

While ASTM standards are dominant in the U.S. biodiesel industry, the new ASABE standard contains many references to ASTM and basically serves as laboratory guide for proper testing procedures and reporting at the university level, said Scott Cedarquist of ASABE. “This is for assessing different crops at the ag research stations along with their consistencies and performance as feedstocks,” he said. “ASTM standards are a little different in that they mostly apply to biodiesel’s performance on the road.”

The original document was developed in the 1990s. Since that time, with the rapid growth of the biodiesel industry, the procedures and practices in reporting the testing of such alternative fuels have evolved considerably. The revised document reflects current practices and international standards, with input obtained from experts in industry, academia, and public service.

Source: Biodiesel Magazine