Technology Implementation

Retrofit Alternatives with the HS Reactor System™

A. Conventional Biodiesel Plants:

The HS Reactor System™ can retrofit plants with and without feed pre-treatment. The majority of capital investment in a biodiesel facility resides in areas that are outside battery limits (OSBL). As a result, a retrofit to upgrade inefficient first generation technology with the HS Reactor System™ is an attractive and cost effective alternative to improve plant economics and profitability. All retrofits must be reviewed on a case by case basis as each plant is different.

B. Ethanol Plants:

Many ethanol plants are currently shutting down as a result of poor economics. The majority of the capital investment and equipment in an ethanol plant is technology independent. As a result, ethanol plants are attractive targets for a retrofit to biodiesel production using the HS Reactor System™.  The retrofitted ethanol plant can be operated to produce ethanol or biodiesel depending on economic needs.  Ethanol plants can produce inedible DDG oil, an inexpensive feedstock for advanced biodiesel that has not been tapped by the biodiesel industry due to its high FFA content. All retrofits must be reviewed on a case by case basis as each plant is different.

C. TOFA Plants:

Many tall oil fatty acid (TOFA) plants have been mothballed as a result of uncertain market conditions. TOFA plants are strategically located close to paper mills that supply their raw material and are an excellent feedstock source for advanced biodiesel production with the HS Reactor System™.  TOFA has not been tapped by the biodiesel industry because it has nearly 100% FFA and can not be processed by first generation caustic based technology. The majority of a TOFA plant capital investment resides in areas that are outside battery limits (OSBL). As a result, TOFA plants are attractive targets for an upgrade to biodiesel production using the HS Reactor System™. All retrofits must be reviewed on a case by case basis as each plant is different.

D. Other Plants (oleo-chemical plants, palm oil refineries, chemical plants, tank terminals, etc.):

Many other plants are also attractive retrofit candidates for the HS Reactor System™. Key criteria include: location relative to feedstock and market, available rail, barge and truck infrastructure, storage capacity, utilities, and general site infrastructure (labs, control room, maintenance shop, etc.). All retrofits must be reviewed on a case by case basis as each plant is different. 

Retrofit Benefits:

  • Maximize throughput and yields
  • Premium glycerin free of sodium or potassium
  • Ability to process multiple feedstocks with up to 100% FFA
  • Ability to process low cost wet feedstock and wet methanol
  • Reduce waste water generation by eliminating the water wash and neutralization steps
  • Short time to market as a result of shorter schedule in:
    • Engineering and construction
    • Environmental and other permits
    • Product distribution relationships and logistics already established
    • Knowledgeable personnel already in place

Grass Roots Alternatives with the HS Reactor System™

A grass roots biodiesel plant using the HS Reactor System™ enjoys all of the benefits of the technology. In addition, a grass roots facility makes efficient use of its footprint and effective use of its location.