The Conversion Module comprises two sub-modules (Module I: circulation module - Module II: process module) that include transfer pumps and special filter components, pre-heaters and a viscosimeter, armatures and electrical change-over valves, monitoring and control systems, with serial ports which enable remote operation and monitoring to be backed up by a PC display, trend analysis and 50 hours of back-up for operation data.

These two module units are completely assembled and tested on the premises of MBH and therefore can be incorporated into on-site equipment within a short timeframe and do not require gensets to be shut down for longer periods.

All the components are included in these two modules, which are designed to be integrated into the existing fuel system to correspond to the prevailing conditions in the engine / power station. The modules are fitted onto a steel platform or frame designed to conform to the space requirements of the existing power house; the Conversion Module will then be installed either into the power house or outside in a 20-foot container.

What are Vegetable Oils?

Crude Vegetable Oils (CVO) are unprocessed / unrefined oils derived from plant crops and renewable in nature. Many CVOs are nowadays used as fuels.

CVOs are not transesterified like BioDiesel and are therefore cheaper but more specific in their use.

The Use of Crude Vegetable Oils in the Conversion Module

The use of CVO in the Conversion Module does not entail any derating of the engine. The performance on load application remains unaltered.

The VOs used as fuel must conform to the Quality standard for Vegetable Oil MBH FB-01/06 recommended by MBH. These do not need to be refined to the extent required for BioDiesel. Crude Vegetable Oil can be used, with the consequence of the aggressiveness of usually 5 to 7 percent Free Fatty Acids (FFA). However, de-gumming, depending on the type and quality of the Vegetable Oil, will remove and reduce the FFA to less than 1 percent.

Depending on the Free Fatty Acid (FFA between 3 and 7 percent) content of the Vegetable Oil, modification of the injection system may be recommended.

Benefits of Using VOs as Fuel

Vegetable Oil is CO2-neutral. Subject to compliance with specific requirements, such oils allow companies which utilize them to obtain Carbon Credits under the Kyoto CO2 trading scheme.

The period before an overhaul, expenditure of spare parts, wear and tear, and downtime are directly linked to the quality and cleanliness of the fuel. Vegetable fuel is considered to be very clean when compared to Heavy Fuel Oil, and thus another consequence of using VO is the benefit of having less engine wear and tear compared to operation on HFO. This will result in less expenditure of spare parts as well as less downtime, and consequently lower operating costs on the engine each year.

Power stations converted by MBH to run on Vegetable-Oil have provided satisfactory service of over 30,000 service-hours to date.

 Some of our projects include: