BIODIESEL PRODUCTION PROCESS FLOW DESIGN VIA CALCIUM OXIDE CATALYSED ETHANOLYSIS TECHNIQUE

This paper presents a report on the design of a process flow method and a case study of a mini-waste cooking oil biodiesel (WCOBD) plant. This report comprises a detailed process development, technical and economic assessment incorporating material and energy computations, equipment cost estimations, and specifications. The designed plant is expected to produce 16.88 tons per annum. The cost of biodiesel was evaluated based on researched cost variables and plant data. The designed plant seems economically viable, and a biodiesel production cost of ZAR10.10 per kg was evaluated by the investigation giving a total production cost of ZAR10,100.00 (US$673.33) per ton. Mass balances were utilized to design a 50 L pressurized reactor tank which is suitable for small to medium sized biodiesel producers.