Petroleum-based diesel fuel is the lifeblood of all U.S. railroads. Finding a way to reduce the amount spent on fuel by even 1 percent would result in an industry-wide savings of more than $100 million.
A team of NIU researchers is pursuing that goal, looking specifically at bio-diesel fuels made from things like soy bean oil, corn oil or even beef tallow. While it is not feasible to run existing locomotives purely on bio-diesel, NIU experts are studying blends that include up to 20 percent bio-diesel, which have been used successfully elsewhere.
Such blends not only help stretch fuel dollars, they also reduce emissions of carbon, sulfur and particulates – important considerations to an industry facing newly mandated, much more stringent pollution standards. The bio fuels also have a higher cetane rating (analogous to octane ratings in gasoline), which translates to better fuel efficiency; and a slight solvent effect that results in cleaner engines and fuel systems.
The team will also evaluate all aspects of what would logistical changes railroads would have to make to accommodate a switch to bio-diesel. The team is examining issue such as modifications that might be required to equipment, the spacing of fuel depots and ways to ensure that the biodiesel is used within six months of production, after which it begins to deteriorate.