The use of B35 biodiesel in Indonesia has become more widespread since the government implemented a mandatory biofuel program in recent years. This policy encourages various industrial sectors, starting from transportation, mining, to construction, to use biodiesel mixtures in daily operations.
However, among heavy equipment operators and technicians, a question arises that is discussed quite often: is B35 really safe for engines?
Some people believe that biodiesel can help with energy efficiency and reduce emissions. But there are also those who are worried that this fuel has the potential to accelerate damage to engine components, especially on heavy equipment that works in extreme conditions.
To understand this more objectively, It's important to see what the characteristics of B35 actually are, impact on diesel engines, as well as the correct way of use in the field.
What is Biodiesel B35?
Biodiesel B35 is a diesel fuel consisting of 35% biodiesel based on vegetable oils and 65% solar fossil. In Indonesia, Biodiesel is generally produced from palm oil which is processed into a compound called Fatty Acid Methyl Ester (FAME).
The B35 use program is part of the energy policy driven by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to reduce dependence on diesel imports while increasing the use of domestic resources..
In practice, B35 fuel distribution is carried out by national energy companies such as Pertamina, while biodiesel production is supported by industries that are members of APROBI.
Apart from supporting national energy security, The use of biodiesel is also expected to reduce carbon emissions compared to pure fossil fuels.
Characteristics of B35 Compared to Conventional Solar
Even though it is used in the same diesel engine, Biodiesel has several different characteristics compared to conventional diesel.
One of the main differences is the higher oxygen content in biodiesel. This can help the combustion process become more perfect so that exhaust emissions tend to be lower.
Besides that, Biodiesel also has lubricating properties (lubricity) which is better. This property can help protect fuel system components such as the pump and injectors from wear.
For that reason, a number of heavy equipment manufacturer such as Caterpillar and Komatsu state that modern diesel engines are generally compatible with biodiesel blends within certain limits.
However, The use of biodiesel also has several challenges that need to be considered.
Potential Impact of B35 on Heavy Equipment Machines
Dalam penggunaan jangka panjang, There are several factors that technicians often pay attention to heavy equipment operator when using B35 fuel.
1. Higher Water Absorption Ability
Biodiesel is more hygroscopic, that is, it easily absorbs water from the environment. If fuel is stored in a tank that is not kept clean, kandungan air dapat meningkat.
Water in the fuel system can cause mild corrosion and trigger the growth of microorganisms that produce deposits. These deposits have the potential to clog the fuel filter.
2. Risk of Fuel Oxidation
Compared to pure diesel, biodiesel more easily undergoes an oxidation process if stored for a long time. Oxidation can reduce fuel quality and form residues that disrupt the fuel system.
Therefore, Fuel storage management is an important factor when using B35.
3. Tank Cleaning Effect
In some cases, Users who have recently switched from conventional diesel to biodiesel report that the fuel filter gets dirty more quickly at the start of use.
This happens because biodiesel has the property of dissolving old deposits in the fuel tank. The sediment that was previously attached will be released and carried to the filter.
Usually this condition only occurs temporarily until the fuel system becomes cleaner.
Effect of B35 on Heavy Equipment Performance
Apart from the technical aspects of the machine, Industry players are also paying attention to how this fuel affects the performance and efficiency of heavy equipment.
Fuel consumption
Biodiesel has a slightly lower heating value than conventional diesel. It means, the energy produced per liter of fuel is slightly smaller.
Under normal operational conditions, difference fuel consumption usually not too big. Many operators report that the difference is only a few percent.
Engine Power and Response
On most modern diesel engines, the use of B35 does not cause a significant decrease in energy. The injection system in modern engines is able to adjust the characteristics of the fuel quite well.
Heavy equipment manufacturers such as Hitachi Construction Machinery have tested the compatibility of their engines with various types of biodiesel blends.
As long as the fuel quality meets standards, engine performance usually remains stable.
Umur Komponen Mesin
In terms of component life, The most determining factor is actually not just the type of fuel, but the quality of machine maintenance.
On older generation machines, some rubber components or seals may be less compatible with biodiesel. But on more modern machines, Manufacturers generally have adapted the material to be resistant to biodiesel blends.
Companies like Volvo Construction Equipment have even carried out special tests to ensure their engines can run on biodiesel.
Is B35 More Economical for Industry?
The next question is regarding the economic aspect.
The B35 program is designed to ensure fuel prices remain competitive through support from palm oil industry funds managed by BPDPKS.
With this mechanism, The price of biodiesel can be maintained so that it is not too different from the price of conventional diesel.
For companies that operate a lot of heavy equipment, for example in the mining or construction sector, Fuel price stability is very important because energy costs are a large component of operations.
Besides that, The use of biodiesel also helps reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, so that in the long term it can support the stability of the national energy supply.
How to Safely Use B35 on Heavy Equipment
So that using B35 does not cause problems with the engine, There are several care steps that need to be taken into account.
1. Keeping the Storage Tank Clean
The fuel tank must be kept clean and properly closed. This is important to prevent water and dirt contamination.
Regular inspection of the tank can help detect problems early.
2. More Routine Filter Replacement
Pada masa awal penggunaan biodiesel, The fuel filter should be checked and replaced regularly. This step helps prevent blockages caused by sediment carried from the tank.
3. Using Fuel from Official Sources
The quality of biodiesel really depends on the production and distribution process. Therefore, It is important to ensure that fuel is obtained from official distributors that meet quality standards.
Standardized distribution, as done by Pertamina, can help maintain consistent fuel quality.
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