"Reactor Mechanics and System Tricks" biodiesel homebrewing class for
advanced beginners
New session- August 4 or  5, 9-5, Oakland, CA, $70
one-day class, two sessions

to register: www.girlmark.com/tour
  *********************************
This class is geared to people who already know how to make biodiesel,
either in a lab-scale or one-liter setting, or for those who already
homebrew but would like to compare notes with me on how I manage my
system. This may become a two-day class at some point if I find that it
needs that much time to run through all of the proposed syllabus listed
below (two-day class would be a weekend activity)

In this class we run actual full-size batches,  in a real reactor at an
actual site, and try to run the class through every single step so as to
discuss 'tricks' and tips on reactor mechanics. Ive been obsessing about
how beginning biodieselers (and some advanced people) don't tend to use
secondary containment, tend to make more messes than they should, tend
to gas themselves with methanol by draining glycerine unsafely, etc. I'd
like to do this class as a way to help students overcome this aspect of
the learning curve- the common equipment-based mistakes having to do
with operating procedures.

This class is geared to people who already know how to make biodiesel,
either in a lab-scale or one-liter setting or who already homebrew but
would like to compare notes with me on how I manage my system. You may
take this class after attending a regular homebrewing class taught by
someone else as well as if you have learned how to make biodiesel on
your own. We dont go into a lot of detail on titration and chemistry
here so that's the info you should have 'down' already on your own prior
to taking this "system tricks" class.

*********************************************

Syllabus looks something like this:


Start a batch of fuel in a large Appleseed homebrew processor.
Discuss safe heating, tank fires, use of hydronic heating methods, and
heat exchangers. Demonstrate heat exchanger-based Appleseed.
Discuss some electrical safety interconnects proposed for heating
element control in 'regular' electric heaters.
Discuss tricks for measuring lye safely
Discuss tricks for measuring methanol safely
Discuss pumps for pumping methanol safely
Demonstrate air-powered pumps and discuss air compressor requirements
and electrical consumption if using air pumps for reactor mixing.
Discuss materials compatibility with various fuel processes and
chemicals used, and discuss where inappropriate plastics can still be
used with fewer consequences.
Discuss sight tubes and sight glass sources, ways of using them, ways of
installing them, what to look for in industrial parts catalogs
Demonstrate use of powered methanol/lye mixers that are not just passive
carboy method. Discuss pros and cons of both types of systems.
Discuss methanol vapor release to atmosphere.
Discuss fire safety issues.


drain a batch of glycerine in another Appleseed (my processor trailer)
and discuss how to avoid methanol vapor exposure during this process
discuss/demonstrate how to separate glycerine from biodiesel to minimize
emulsions. Most beginner mistakes having to do with emulsion are
actually a separation issue where the person inadvertently contaminates
their wash tank with extra soap because they haven't separated the
glycerine from the biodiesel completely. There are some tests to ensure
this is actually done.
Discuss standpipe separating tanks, and demonstrate several ways of
designing them.
Discuss ways to minimize contamination with unwanted material.
Discuss various kinds of quick-connects and other ways to deal with the
messes caused by hoses. Most spills and other hazards are probably due
to homebrewers relying on hose rather than pipe.
Demonstrate the use of hard plumbing and ways of managing multiple valves
Demonstrate different methods of labeling the process and the steps, and
demonstrate one system using a 'protocol checklist' to minimize
confusion when operating multiple valves.

Transfer finished fuel from processor trailer to wash tanks and discuss
washing equipment
Demonstrate several types of washing nozzles and important considerations
Discuss closed versus open wash tanks
Discuss venting and air displacement
Demonstrate use of non-siphoning overflow mistwash tank plumbing
Demonstrate use of sump pump to move water to a drain
Demonstrate soap test titration
Discuss emulsions (I will make one for us to play with)
Break emulsion with various ways
Discuss wash tank heating methods
Discuss water disposal and ways of separating oils and water and what
happens when it is done with various methods
Discuss/demonstrate water neutralizing

Drain wash water from first wash and discuss "how you know when you're
finished with washing"
Go into more detail on emulsions and water retention
Demonstrate separation of water and biodiesel using various kinds of tanks
Discuss "white stuff" that isn't emulsion
Discuss materials compatibility and water hardness issues with regards
to washing
Discuss three different drying methods for getting water out of washed
biodiesel
Discuss tests for dryness of finished biodiesel

Test some finished biodiesel for quality in various ways

When the batch that we're making is finished processing, we can perform
an 80%/20% two-stage base-base process and demonstrate various equipment
methods required to make it easier
We will follow it with a 5% water prewash for minimizing soap in wash.
There are many ways of handling this complex process (80/20 followed by
5%) and we'll demonstrate and discuss several possible solutions to the
unwanted complexity

We will burn some glycerine in a homemade glycerine burner and
demonstrate ways of moving the heat safely to heat a batch of oil for
another batch of biodiesel.

I'll briefly discuss filtration though this isn't terribly complex
We'll discuss different hosing material and tricks for
handling/wrangling lots of hose

We'll demonstrate a 'cubee handling' system for minimizing the hassle
involved in processing oil that comes in 5 gallon cubes
We'll demonstrate straining of oil
We'll discuss, possibly only theoretically as it cant be shown in a
one-day class, the 'heat and let settle' method of dewatering wet oil
We'll discuss fire safety if you choose to dewater oil using boiling
temperatures.


Mark

One-day Reactor Mechanics and System Tricks class for advanced beginners
in homebrew biodiesel:

Session 1: July 28
Session 2: July 29th (class is only one day long but repeats for a
second session)
Possible additional weekday session on July 25 or 26

Oakland, CA
$70

This class is geared to people who already know how to make biodiesel,
either in a lab-scale or for those who already homebrew full-size
batches but would like to compare notes with me on how I manage my
system. You may take this class after attending a regular homebrewing
class taught by someone else, as well as if you have learned how to make
biodiesel on your own. We dont go into a lot of detail on titration and
chemistry here so that’s the info you should have ‘down’ already on your
own prior to taking this “system tricks” class.

This class will be fairly small as the space only holds about 10 people.
It takes place in two identical sessions on the week of July 28. If
there is sufficient interest I will add another session during the
Wednesday or Thursday before that weekend. Email me at
classregistration@... with 'system tricks' in the subject line
if you're interested in a weekday date.

*********************************************

Syllabus will look something like this:

Start a batch of fuel in a large Appleseed homebrew processor.
Discuss safe heating, tank fires, use of hydronic heating methods, and
heat exchangers. Demonstrate heat exchanger-based Appleseed.
Discuss some electrical safety interconnects proposed for heating
element control in ‘regular’ electric heaters.
Discuss tricks for measuring lye safely
Discuss tricks for measuring methanol safely
Discuss pumps for pumping methanol safely
Demonstrate air-powered pumps and discuss air compressor requirements
and electrical consumption if using air pumps for reactor mixing.
Discuss materials compatibility with various fuel processes and
chemicals used, and discuss where inappropriate plastics can still be
used with fewer consequences.
Discuss sight tubes and sight glass sources, ways of using them, ways of
installing them, what to look for in industrial parts catalogs
Demonstrate use of powered methanol/lye mixers that are not just passive
carboy method. Discuss pros and cons of both types of systems.
Discuss methanol vapor release to atmosphere.
Discuss fire safety issues.

drain a batch of glycerine in another Appleseed (my processor trailer)
and discuss how to avoid methanol vapor exposure during this process
discuss/demonstrate how to separate glycerine from biodiesel to minimize
emulsions. Most beginner mistakes having to do with emulsion are
actually a separation issue where the person inadvertently contaminates
their wash tank with extra soap because they haven’t separated the
glycerine from the biodiesel completely. There are some tests to ensure
this is actually done.
Discuss standpipe separating tanks, and demonstrate several ways of
designing them.
Discuss ways to minimize contamination with unwanted material.
Discuss various kinds of quick-connects and other ways to deal with the
messes caused by hoses. Most spills and other hazards are probably due
to homebrewers relying on hose rather than pipe.
Demonstrate the use of hard plumbing and ways of managing multiple valves
Demonstrate different methods of labeling the process and the steps, and
demonstrate one system using a ‘protocol checklist’ to minimize
confusion when operating multiple valves.

Transfer finished fuel from processor trailer to wash tanks and discuss
washing equipment
Demonstrate several types of washing nozzles and important considerations
Discuss closed versus open wash tanks
Discuss venting and air displacement
Demonstrate use of non-siphoning overflow mistwash tank plumbing
Demonstrate use of sump pump to move water to a drain
Demonstrate soap test titration
Discuss emulsions (I will make one for us to play with)
Break emulsion with various ways
Discuss wash tank heating methods
Discuss water disposal and ways of separating oils and water and what
happens when it is done with various methods
Discuss/demonstrate water neutralizing

Drain wash water from first wash and discuss “how you know when you’re
finished with washing”
Go into more detail on emulsions and water retention
Demonstrate separation of water and biodiesel using various kinds of tanks
Discuss “white stuff” that isn’t emulsion
Discuss materials compatibility and water hardness issues with regards
to washing
Discuss three different drying methods for getting water out of washed
biodiesel
Discuss tests for dryness of finished biodiesel

Test some finished biodiesel for quality in various ways

When the batch that we’re making is finished processing, we can perform
an 80%/20% two-stage base-base process and demonstrate various equipment
methods required to make it easier
We will follow it with a 5% water prewash for minimizing soap in wash.
There are many ways of handling this complex process (80/20 followed by
5%) and we’ll demonstrate and discuss several possible solutions to the
unwanted complexity

We will burn some glycerine in a homemade glycerine burner and
demonstrate ways of moving the heat safely to heat a batch of oil for
another batch of biodiesel.

I’ll briefly discuss filtration though this isn’t terribly complex
We’ll discuss different hosing material and tricks for
handling/wrangling lots of hose

We’ll demonstrate a ‘cubee handling’ system for minimizing the hassle
involved in processing oil that comes in 5 gallon cubes
We’ll demonstrate straining of oil
We’ll discuss, possibly only theoretically as it cant be shown in a
one-day class, the ‘heat and let settle’ method of dewatering wet oil
We’ll discuss fire safety if you choose to dewater oil using boiling
temperatures.

Registration info and other classes info is at www.girlmark.com/tour

Mark

Just a reminder that my last 'regular' two-day biodiesel homebrewing
class (until winter?) is next weekend in Berkeley.

Biodiesel Homebrewing/Equipment Building Class with Maria 'girl Mark'
Alovert of http://biodieselcommunity.org

Berkeley

10-4 Saturday and Sunday, June 30-July 1

to register: see http://girlmark.com/tour


*************************

Biodiesel is a clean-burning diesel alternative made from any natural
oil or fat. It can be made easily in a backyard or garage environment.

In this class, you will learn how to make your own clean burning diesel
fuel alternative and how to build the processing equipment to make it at
home safely...

This is a comprehensive, hands-on workshop on making homebrew biodiesel
fuel out of waste restaurant fryer oil, which can usually be acquired
for 'free'.

Most of the class focuses on the chemistry behind biodiesel homebrewing
and quality control, and we'll be doing a lot of 'lab' work making test
batches, and variations on different formulas.

The feel of the class is a bit like the mad scientist version of "high
school chem lab" (hopefully without the spitballs and giggling)- you'll
be doing hands-on lab exercises in small groups, which will teach you
how to make and troubleshoot your home batches- and we'll be learning
the chemistry basics that underlie making good quality fuel for your
vehicle.

This is a fast-paced class, and I strongly recommend that you read this
website first: http://www.biodieselcommunity.org to get a background for
this subject.

The class will also cover equipment and system construction. We will
discuss heat exchangers, solar thermal heating of the process, some
minimal methanol recovery information, and other equipment topics.

At the end of this class, we build some biodiesel processors for those
students who wish to buy the parts. Everyone helps, regardless of
whether you want to bought your own kit or not.

I sell the Biodiesel Homebrew Guide ($15) in this class as well, for
more info, please see my book page at http://localb100.com/book.html

To register, please see the online registration at
http://www.girlmark.com/tour


Syllabus:

Saturday:
10-noon- lecture: general biofuels introduction, SVO conversions and
diesel blending (ie DSE, etc) discussions, cold weather issues,
emissions, discussion of early biofuels research that has gotten us
where we are today with biodiesel, explanation of biodiesel chemistry
and the basic process

noon-12:30 demonstration of the basic process

12:30-1:15 lunch

1:15-4 : students practice titration and make 1-liter batches, and we'll
discuss the full-size processor I'm bringing on the trailer outside and
how it works.

During the basic practice you'll practice oil water content testing,
blank titration, titration with a burette as well as cheaper equipment,
phenol red and turmeric titrations, really nasty oil as well as normal
oil, 5% glycerine remix prewash and two-stage process, along with
intentionally making mistakes for Sunday's class.

If we get through the basic 1-liter batches quickly enough, I"ll start
the next day's topics and demonstrations on Saturday afternoon.

Sunday:
10-12:30 lecture and demo: washing, biodiesel equipment, quality control
and quality testing discussion and demonstration, and a more detailed
discussion of quality problems that can affect vehicles

12:30-1:15 lunch

1:15-2:15 -students do 'open lab' practice, with help from some
experienced biodieselers who are coming to visit- you can perform
quality tests, wash your test batches from the day before, make more
test batches with different oil and different variables if you wish, do
ethanol-based biodiesel, attempt to fix some of the 'mistakes' we'll
intentionally make (ie emulsion and 'glop'), and more . You can also
start on your processor if you wish to instead. Intermittent lecturing
will take place during the lab, on topics such as ethanol-based
biodiesel and alternative lab techniques

2:15-4 plumbing/techniques demo and processor building (and continuation
of open lab, with help available for either lab or processor build- you
can filter back and forth between activities).

"Reactor Mechanics and System Tricks" biodiesel homebrewing class

I'm trying to gauge interest for a new class format, for a one-day
'system tricks' class for more advanced beginners who want to learn more
in-depth information about homebrew equipment and see it in action going
through all of it's steps. This is a hands-on class where we will do all
of the things we're discussing, in a real , working setting.

This class is geared to people who already know how to make biodiesel,
either in a lab-scale or one-liter setting, or for those who already
homebrew but would like to compare notes with me on how I manage my
system. This may become a two-day class at some point if I find that it
needs that much time to run through all of the proposed syllabus listed
below (two-day class would be a weekend activity)

I'm tentatively offering a new week-day class, sometime during the week
of July 9th or July 23rd (one weekday of either week) in which we run
actual full-size batches,  in a real reactor at someone's actual site,
and try to run the class through every single step so as to discuss
'tricks' and tips on reactor mechanics. Ive been obsessing about how
beginning biodieselers (and some advanced people) don't tend to use
secondary containment, tend to make more messes than they should, tend
to gas themselves with methanol by draining glycerine unsafely, etc. I'd
like to do this class as a way to help students overcome this aspect of
the learning curve- the common equipment-based mistakes having to do
with operating procedures.  This class will probably be in Oakland or
Berkeley or someplace nearby. I will announce the class on these lists
when it's finalized.

Let me know which days would work for you- a one-day class during the
weekdays, somewhere between July 9-11 or July 24-27 is when this is
likely to occur. If you can not do weekdays, let me know as well in case
the weekend of July 28 becomes available for me.

Send all inquiries to classregistration@... and put 'equipment
tricks class' in the subject line.

The class will run 9-5 and will be $70 for the day.

This class is geared to people who already know how to make biodiesel,
either in a lab-scale or one-liter setting or who already homebrew but
would like to compare notes with me on how I manage my system. You may
take this class after attending a regular homebrewing class taught by
someone else as well as if you have learned how to make biodiesel on
your own. We dont go into a lot of detail on titration and chemistry
here so that's the info you should have 'down' already on your own prior
to taking this "system tricks" class.

*********************************************


I'll try to write up a better description/syllabus in the next few days.
What comes to mind is something like this:

Start a batch of fuel in a large Appleseed homebrew processor.
Discuss safe heating, tank fires, use of hydronic heating methods, and
heat exchangers. Demonstrate heat exchanger-based Appleseed.
Discuss some electrical safety interconnects proposed for heating
element control in 'regular' electric heaters.
Discuss tricks for measuring lye safely
Discuss tricks for measuring methanol safely
Discuss pumps for pumping methanol safely
Demonstrate air-powered pumps and discuss air compressor requirements
and electrical consumption if using air pumps for reactor mixing.
Discuss materials compatibility with various fuel processes and
chemicals used, and discuss where inappropriate plastics can still be
used with fewer consequences.
Discuss sight tubes and sight glass sources, ways of using them, ways of
installing them, what to look for in industrial parts catalogs
Demonstrate use of powered methanol/lye mixers that are not just passive
carboy method. Discuss pros and cons of both types of systems.
Discuss methanol vapor release to atmosphere.
Discuss fire safety issues.


drain a batch of glycerine in another Appleseed (my processor trailer)
and discuss how to avoid methanol vapor exposure during this process
discuss/demonstrate how to separate glycerine from biodiesel to minimize
emulsions. Most beginner mistakes having to do with emulsion are
actually a separation issue where the person inadvertently contaminates
their wash tank with extra soap because they haven't separated the
glycerine from the biodiesel completely. There are some tests to ensure
this is actually done.
Discuss standpipe separating tanks, and demonstrate several ways of
designing them.
Discuss ways to minimize contamination with unwanted material.
Discuss various kinds of quick-connects and other ways to deal with the
messes caused by hoses. Most spills and other hazards are probably due
to homebrewers relying on hose rather than pipe.
Demonstrate the use of hard plumbing and ways of managing multiple valves
Demonstrate different methods of labeling the process and the steps, and
demonstrate one system using a 'protocol checklist' to minimize
confusion when operating multiple valves.

Transfer finished fuel from processor trailer to wash tanks and discuss
washing equipment
Demonstrate several types of washing nozzles and important considerations
Discuss closed versus open wash tanks
Discuss venting and air displacement
Demonstrate use of non-siphoning overflow mistwash tank plumbing
Demonstrate use of sump pump to move water to a drain
Demonstrate soap test titration
Discuss emulsions (I will make one for us to play with)
Break emulsion with various ways
Discuss wash tank heating methods
Discuss water disposal and ways of separating oils and water and what
happens when it is done with various methods
Discuss/demonstrate water neutralizing

Drain wash water from first wash and discuss "how you know when you're
finished with washing"
Go into more detail on emulsions and water retention
Demonstrate separation of water and biodiesel using various kinds of tanks
Discuss "white stuff" that isn't emulsion
Discuss materials compatibility and water hardness issues with regards
to washing
Discuss three different drying methods for getting water out of washed
biodiesel
Discuss tests for dryness of finished biodiesel

Test some finished biodiesel for quality in various ways

When the batch that we're making is finished processing, we can perform
an 80%/20% two-stage base-base process and demonstrate various equipment
methods required to make it easier
We will follow it with a 5% water prewash for minimizing soap in wash.
There are many ways of handling this complex process (80/20 followed by
5%) and we'll demonstrate and discuss several possible solutions to the
unwanted complexity

We will burn some glycerine in a homemade glycerine burner and
demonstrate ways of moving the heat safely to heat a batch of oil for
another batch of biodiesel.

I'll briefly discuss filtration though this isn't terribly complex
We'll discuss different hosing material and tricks for
handling/wrangling lots of hose

We'll demonstrate a 'cubee handling' system for minimizing the hassle
involved in processing oil that comes in 5 gallon cubes
We'll demonstrate straining of oil
We'll discuss, possibly only theoretically as it cant be shown in a
one-day class, the 'heat and let settle' method of dewatering wet oil
We'll discuss fire safety if you choose to dewater oil using boiling
temperatures.

To express interest in the class and certain dates for the class, please
email me at classregistration@... with 'system tricks class' in
the subject line.
Info on my other classes is at www.girlmark.com/tour

Mark

I've been searching on Craigslist for tanks for another project and keep
seeing used biodiesel processors for sale in the SF and Sacramento
craigslist.

  Take a look if you're considering building a processor. They've been
about $500-650 if I recall right.

Also, I have a new B100supply kit for sale that I got stuck with after
someone had a shipping problem in the last class- $300. It's the "basic
kit"- processor parts only. B100supply's stuff ships nearly assembled-
or as assembled as it gets without having a tank to attach it to.

  Email me at classregistration@... if you're interested in that
one, and be patient, as I'm checking email less frequently than usual
(or at least trying to stay off the devil computer as much as possible
for me).

Mark

Upcoming biodiesel and SVO workshops and events in Northern California:

June 16: Homebrewing workshop with Andrew Morris
June 20: Introductory biodiesel fundamentals workshop with Bill Michell
June 30-July 1: Homebrewing workshop and equipment build with Maria
'Mark' Alovert
July 5: *Biofuels: Sustainability through Technology - The Californian
Model panel discussion at PG&E
*July, Berkeley: possible weekday one-day hands-on processor
demonstration and 'system tips' class with Maria 'Mark' Alovert.

Please contact individual instructors for more information. Contact info
listed below.

*****************************************************

June 16, Oakland:

Hands-on Biodiesel Homebrewing
With Andrew Morris

In West Oakland, June 16 9:30a 5:30p $90
Including Lunch – Limit 6 Participants
Second person from the same household ½ price
To register: email morris1524@... <mailto:morris1524@...>
This class is designed to give you the hands on experience you need to
begin making your own high quality fuel.

Topics Include:  We will Demo & Practice
Basic Chemistry of Making Biodiesel
Oil Quality Testing  - Free Fatty Acid Titration and
Quantitative Water Test
Calculations for Methanol and Catalyst Use
Fuel Quality Testing For Conversion
Washing Techniques
Separting Fuel From Glycerol and Water
Processor Operation
Avoiding & Breaking Emulsion
Processor Design & Building Tips
Basic Safety Guidlines

This class will combine lab, practical, theory and Q&A.
Email to hold a Space - I will send you my address and where to send
your check: email morris1524@... <mailto:morris1524@...>
Recommended Resources:
http://www.biodieselcommunity.org
http://biodiesel.infopop.cc
http://www.biodieselpictures.com
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/biodieselbasics/
http://www.biodieselnow.com/

***********************************************************
June 30-July 1, Berkeley

Comprehensive Homebrew Biodiesel Class and equipment build with Maria
'Mark' Alovert
Biodiesel Homebrewing/Equipment Building Class with Maria 'girl Mark'
Alovert of http://biodieselcommunity.org <http://biodieselcommunity.org/>

Berkeley, CA

Saturday and Sunday, June 30-July 1
10-4

to register: see http://girlmark.com/tour

This class will build some www.B100supply.com
<http://www.b100supply.com/> equipment

*************************

Biodiesel is a clean-burning diesel alternative made from any natural
oil or fat. It can be made easily in a backyard or garage environment.
In this class, you will learn how to make your own clean burning diesel
fuel alternative and how to build the processing equipment to make it at
home safely...

This is a comprehensive, hands-on workshop on making homebrew biodiesel
fuel out of waste restaurant fryer oil, which can usually be acquired
for 'free'.
Most of the class focuses on the chemistry behind biodiesel homebrewing
and quality control, and we'll be doing a lot of 'lab' work making test
batches, and variations on different formulas.

The feel of the class is a bit like the mad scientist version of "high
school chem lab" (hopefully without the spitballs and giggling)- you'll
be doing hands-on lab exercises in small groups, which will teach you
how to make and troubleshoot your home batches- and we'll be learning
the chemistry basics that underlie making good quality fuel for your
vehicle.

This is a fast-paced class, and I strongly recommend that you read this
website first: http://www.biodieselcommunity.org
<http://www.biodieselcommunity.org/> to get a background for this subject.

Processor build:
At the end of the class, we will build biodiesel processors for students
who wish to buy parts ahead of time (deadline for kit orders: June 16).
If you don't want to make your own processor you can still help build
the others' systems. We will also discuss heat exchangers, solar thermal
heating of the process, some minimal methanol recovery information, and
other equipment topics.

Parts kits info: The optional parts kits are provided by
www.b100supply.com. They are offering a $50 discount to those who are
registered for the workshop (you'll get an e-coupon that you can use at
the b100supply site). June 16 deadline is for b100supply only, the class
will accept students till we're full. The past few Berkeley classes have
sold out so you may want to register early.

Optional book: I will also have for sale at the class, the Biodiesel
Homebrew Guide book: www.localb100.com/book.html

To register, please see the online registration at
http://www.girlmark.com/tour


***********************************************************
June 20, Menlo Park:
Biodiesel Fundamentals
at TechShop:
Wed, June 20, 7:30-9 pm
with Bill Michell

to register and for more information, please see Techshop website:
http://www.techshop.ws/take_classes.html?a=1&i=957339

In this class you will learn how to make any diesel car run on Waste
Vegetable Oil (WVO) or Biodiesel. WVO is free from most restaurants if
you offer to pick it up. The class covers Biodiesel fundamentals with a
focus on using Waste Vegetable Oil as a fuel. Educate yourself on the
simple modifications that can be made to any diesel engine which will
allow you to be free of foreign oil and gas gouging at the pump! After
this class students will be able to make the informed choice about
whether or not making diesel fuel from vegetable oil at home makes
sense. See a Mercedes- Benz 300 SDL running on free (Sushi) Waste
Vegetable Oil!

*************************************************************
July 5, San Francisco:*

*Biofuels: Sustainability through Technology - The Californian Model*

When: Thursday, July 05, 2007 12:00 PM-4:00 PM
Where: PG&E Energy Center, CR PEC Conference Center  851 Howard St. San
Francisco, CA

Panel discussion & Q/A about issues contributing to pollution by
transportation, as well as the latest technologies in both practical and
conceptual biofuel systems/products.

Part of the Overseas Research Project(ORP). ORP is a research project
carried out by approximately 40 Master's degree Manufacturing
Engineering students in their final year at Cambridge University. The
research topic 'Sustainability through Technology: the Californian
Model', which observes the technological approach to environmental
sustainability, rather than lifestyle or habitual changes.

120 people

PEC Host: Robert Marcial 2.5177

Contact: Heath Blount 505-577-1810
heath.blount@... <mailto:heath.blount@...>
San Francisco Biofuels Cooperative

*************************************
July, Berkeley:
possible weekday one-day hands-on processor demonstration class with
Maria 'Mark' Alovert.
$65

I am considering offering a one-day class during the week (all of my
weekends are full) in which I will show you around a 'real' biodiesel
processor site and will run the system through all the steps needed to
make biodiesel. This will include washing, separating glycerine, drying,
etc.

This class is designed for either beginner students who have done a lot
of reading, or advanced beginner students who have made test batches or
have made some biodiesel. The point of the class is to introduce you to
the tricks and tips for avoiding spills, making high quality fuel, safe
handling, avoiding emulsion, and other physical aspects of running your
biodiesel processor.

However,  I suggest that you attend a 'real' lab class such as my or
Andrew Morris' classes in June first so as to become comfortable with
the chemistry concepts behind homebrewing, or at least make some test
batches on your own first using the www.biodieselcommunity.org
instructions or those in my book at www.localb100.com/book.html

Please email me if you are interested in the  class and let me know you
availability during the week of July 9th or July 23 (no weekends).

classregistration@...
*************************************

This is a reminder about the biodiesel production  classes I"m doing in
the next 10 days in Berkeley, CA- the beginner class this weekend still
has some spaces, though the advanced class next weekend is nearly full.
To register for either class, see www.girlmark.com/tour - I'll post a
note if we fill up.

Hands-on Biodiesel Production Course

Beginner Biodiesel Homebrew Class
Feb 17-18, 10-4, $120
No experience necessary

Advanced Biodiesel Homebrew Class
Feb 24-25, 9-5, $120
Must have prior experience homebrewing, or have attended a previous
biodiesel homebrew class, or have made some test batches at home prior
to the class

See www.girlmark.com/tour to register

These two classes are offered either separately or as a two-weekend
course. Information given will not overlap between the two weekends.

Beginner class covers:
-biodiesel/SVO/solvent thinning options and history, biodiesel
chemistry, testing oil (titration and water testing), making test
batches, an overview of equipment, hands-on reactor build for a few
students at the end of Sunday's class, quality control factors, quality
testing, mistwashing and other water washing options, breaking emulsion,
two-stage base biodiesel, waste water and glycerine disposal, reuse,
common pitfalls, hands-on experience recovering from failed batches and
emulsion, safety

Advanced class covers:
quality control in great detail, analysis of real-world problems with
offspec biodiesel, acid-base biodiesel process, advanced topics in
dewatering, testing for soap,methanol recovery and equipment design,
testing recovered methanol for purity, waterless washing with Amberlite
and Magnesol, larger-scale equipment design (for co-ops or small farms),
treating wash water and glycerine for disposal, testing wash water and
glycerine, real-world test results related to biodegradability, in-depth
disposal/sidestreams discussion, burning glycerine safely for energy,
hydronic applications for biodiesel and wash water heating, more
advanced discussion of safety and disaster prevention scenarios for
larger-scale processor systems, discussion of regulatory topics for
non-commercial producers larger than homebrew, solar heating options,
very through discussion/demonstration of several different options in
washing, including drawbacks and advantages, greywater systems for wash
water recycling, and discussion of the scientific process, how to set up
experiments properly, and common pitfalls in experiments

To register:
www.girlmark.com/tour

Can someone provide more specific directions to this pump or perhaps a
detailed map? I have been looking on Greenfield Ave in San Anselmo on
weekends, but I am not seeing it.

Thank you,

Richard Young


> Hi there,
>
> LC Biofuels is not related to the former non-ASTM producer. This is
> a new company that has gone through all the correct steps to be
> legal. They are members of the NBB (listed on the NBB website) and
> are registered with the EPA and is selling ASTM quality fuel.
>
> Ask to see the EPA fuel certificate if you are still concerned.
>
> Kari Lemons
> Biodiesel Council of California
>
>
>
> --- In marinbiodiesel@yahoogroups.com, Eric Lyons <creeble@...>
> wrote:
>>
>> I imagine I'm not the only one who saw this article:
>>
>> http://www.marinij.com/fastsearchresults/ci_5082421
>>
>> LC Biofuels seems to be the resurrected production facility in
> Richmond that was previously selling NON-ASTM fuel.  They now claim
> their fuel meets ASTM spec:
>>
>> http://www.lcbiofuels.com/about_us.htm
>>
>> The IJ article says that the pump in San Anselmo has 130 regular
> customers, which is terrific if this really is good fuel.
>>
>> Anyone know the rest of the story?
>>
>> Eric.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
> _____________________________________________________________________
> _______________
>> 8:00? 8:25? 8:40? Find a flick in no time
>> with the Yahoo! Search movie showtime shortcut.
>> http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/#news
>>
>
>
>

Hi there,

LC Biofuels is not related to the former non-ASTM producer. This is
a new company that has gone through all the correct steps to be
legal. They are members of the NBB (listed on the NBB website) and
are registered with the EPA and is selling ASTM quality fuel.

Ask to see the EPA fuel certificate if you are still concerned.

Kari Lemons
Biodiesel Council of California



--- In marinbiodiesel@yahoogroups.com, Eric Lyons <creeble@...>
wrote:
>
> I imagine I'm not the only one who saw this article:
>
> http://www.marinij.com/fastsearchresults/ci_5082421
>
> LC Biofuels seems to be the resurrected production facility in
Richmond that was previously selling NON-ASTM fuel.  They now claim
their fuel meets ASTM spec:
>
> http://www.lcbiofuels.com/about_us.htm
>
> The IJ article says that the pump in San Anselmo has 130 regular
customers, which is terrific if this really is good fuel.
>
> Anyone know the rest of the story?
>
> Eric.
>
>
>
>
>
>
_____________________________________________________________________
_______________
> 8:00? 8:25? 8:40? Find a flick in no time
> with the Yahoo! Search movie showtime shortcut.
> http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/#news
>

I imagine I'm not the only one who saw this article:

http://www.marinij.com/fastsearchresults/ci_5082421

LC Biofuels seems to be the resurrected production facility in Richmond that was
previously selling NON-ASTM fuel.  They now claim their fuel meets ASTM spec:

http://www.lcbiofuels.com/about_us.htm

The IJ article says that the pump in San Anselmo has 130 regular customers,
which is terrific if this really is good fuel.

Anyone know the rest of the story?

Eric.





________________________________________________________________________________\
____
8:00? 8:25? 8:40? Find a flick in no time
with the Yahoo! Search movie showtime shortcut.
http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/#news

Hello everyone,

I've been advertising for a while that I'm teaching an advanced class in
Berkeley CA at the end of Febuary. More info on the 'boot camp' classes
is at the end of this email.
<http://biodiesel.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/419605551/m/2741024381>
In order to offer advanced students the best learning experience, the
advanced class requires a prerequisite- either you have to already be
making biodiesel, or you have to have taken a hands-on class from me or
one of the other instructors who teach techniques from
biodieselcommunity.org . I'm teaching a beginner class on Feb 17-18
which may be used as a prerequisite for the advanced class.

However, I've been talking to some out-of-state folks who'd like to come
to the advanced class but don't have any prior experience. Obviously
people from out of town (who are beginners) can't affordably come for
the two weekends that the entire course stretches over.

I may offer an additional Thursday-Friday (feb 22-23) beginners' class
if I can sign up at least 5 people.

This means you guys from out of town can get the entire class in four
days in a row, as opposed to two weekends. This is geared to enabling
travel schedules.

I'd like to make a decision on this by this Thursday night so people can
make travel plans. Please email me at classregistration@... if
you're interested.

This class would probably be in Oakland, although it's easy to get to by
BART train (Fruitvale BART, or, if driving, I-880 to High St)

if you're interested in this weekday class, please email me:
classregistration@...

If you're just planning on coming to the weekend classes and don't need
the weekday session, please sign up at www.girlmark.com/tour
<http://www.girlmark.com/tour> - no need to email me in that case.

**************************
Below is the original message about the Feb 17-18th and Feb 24-25th classes

Biodiesel Beginners and Advanced classes: Biodiesel Boot Camp

I'm teaching biodiesel homebrewing during two weekends in Febuary. You
can take either one or both weekends' classes.

Locations: both of these are in Berkeley, CA-

Beginner class: Feb 17-18
Dwight Way near Sacramento Ave, hours:10-4
possible repeat of this class to take place in Oakland on Feb 23-24 -
email me if interested, I can only offer it if I get a minimum of 5
people in the class.

Advanced class: Feb 24-25
Ashby Ave near San Pablo, hours: 9-5

Each class is $120, register at www.girlmark.com/tour
<http://www.girlmark.com/tour>
if interested in the Thur-Fri session of the beginner  class, please
email me at classregistration@...

**********************
Feb 17-18: two-day class for beginners, no previous experience
necessary. This is similar to the classes I normally teach every few weeks.
10-4 both days, Berkeley (Dwight Way near Sacramento Ave)
may be repeated in Oakland on Feb 22-23

The beginners' class includes hands-on biodiesel chemistry, and an
opportunity to build an Appleseed biodiesel processor if you want to buy
a B100supply.com kit of parts for one. The class will include an
introduction to equipment design, quality testing, quality control, the
scientific process, common pitfalls, recovery from emulsions, the
factors that influence 'conversion', drawbacks and advantages of
biodiesel, and discussions of biodiesel versus solvent thinning or SVO
technologies. You will make some common 'engineered failures' and learn
what they mean. Basic safety practices are stressed.

You may use this basic class as a prerequisite for attending the
advanced class the following weekend.

***********************

Feb 24-25: Advanced Class:
Two-day advanced class covering in great detail many new things that I
(and others) don't normally teach.

I will NOT be offering this class very frequently as there is limited
interest in advanced topics.

I am also offering this class in Saginaw, MI in June and in
Chambersburg, PA in May or June (dates to be announced at my website)


************************
Advanced class details:

For the advanced class, I'd like you to have some experience (see end of
post for prerequisites). If you are new to biodiesel you can certainly
use the beginner class the prior weekend as a prerequisite.
The advanced class is longer than the regular class- 9-5 instead of 10-4.

The advanced class includes:
quality control in much more detail than 'regular' beginners' class
analysis of real-world problems with offspec biodiesel
acid-base biodiesel process, for making biodiesel out of high-FFA oil
advanced topics in dewatering
testing for soap and what it is useful for
methanol recovery and equipment design
testing recovered methanol for purity
waterless washing with Amberlite and Magnesol
slightly larger-scale equipment design (for co-ops or small farms, etc)
Treating wash water and glycerine for disposal
testing wash water and glycerine, real-world test results related to
biodegradability
in-depth disposal/sidestreams discussion
burning glycerine safely for energy
hydronic applications for biodiesel and wash water heating
More advanced discussion of safety and disaster preparation and
prevention scenarios for larger-scale processor systems, discussion of
regulatory topics for non-commercial producers larger than homebrew.
Solar applications for reducing energy inputs in production
very through discussion/demonstration of several different options in
washing, including drawbacks and advantages of them

********************

No prerequisites for Beginners class Feb 17-18- no experience necessary,
come on down

********************
Prerequisites for advanced class:
Advanced Class Feb 24-25: Prior experience required. I'm taking the
unusual step of asking that you guys put a LOT of time into prep for
this class if you are not already a homebrewer, and ask that you not
come if you can not take the time to prepare. I want to make sure it's a
high-quality discussion for advanced students (some of whom are flying
in from out of town), and am restricting attendance by experience, for
this reason.

this class is restricted to:
either:
1)-folks who are already homebrewing (see caveat at end of post about
sources of information)

2)-folks with a LOT of experience with research AND making multiple
1-liter test batches (and it's OK if you get that experience between now
and the class time, I would like you to have about 5-6 sessions of
making a liter batch, washing it, and testing it under your belt-and to
bring these batches in, so we can "grade your homework"- to get started
now see www.biodieselcommunity.org) <http://www.biodieselcommunity.org%29>
3)-folks who don't homebrew but have taken a previous hands-on class
with one of the following instructors, or a class from somebody else who
teaches from the biodieselcommunity.org 'curriculum' and keeps up with
recent developments in homebrewing in the past year:
myself, Jennifer Radtke, Kalib Kersch, "BioLyle" Rudensey, John Bush,
Piedmont Biofuels folks, Matt Steiman
note: If you have only attended a class but not homebrewed, and it's
been a while, I would like you to brush up by making a test batch or two
and trying to wash it to completion so you can bring it to class Feb 24th.

4) students attending the Biofuel Oasis advanced course the previous
week (those people only, may also attend just Day 1 of the beginners
class, since they can't come to both days because of our schedules
conflicting)

Note: Please note that if you primarily work from information from
journeytoforever.org or From the Fryer To The Fuel Tank or from a manual
from Fuelmeister or a similar plastic processor or plans you bought on
eBay, AND if you do not regularly read the quality testing/quality
control side of the Infopop/Yahoo Biodiesel/Yahoo
Biodieselbasics/Biodieselnow homebrewing forums, you may have a lot of
inaccurate information to unlearn.
I very much invite you to attend but I'd like you to do some extra
reading first to catch you up on what's wrong with those sources.
B100supply.com (quality pages and 'best of the forums' section), and
biodieselcommunity.org are good places to start, and
biodiesel.infopop.cc has exceedingly good information these days in the
various forums.


To sign up, please see www.girlmark.com/tour <http://www.girlmark.com/tour>

Hello everyone,

I've been advertising for a while that I'm teaching an advanced class in
Berkeley CA at the end of Febuary. More info on the 'boot camp' classes
is at the end of this email.
<http://biodiesel.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/419605551/m/2741024381>
In order to offer advanced students the best learning experience, the
advanced class requires a prerequisite- either you have to already be
making biodiesel, or you have to have taken a hands-on class from me or
one of the other instructors who teach techniques from
biodieselcommunity.org . I'm teaching a beginner class on Feb 17-18
which may be used as a prerequisite for the advanced class.

However, I've been talking to some out-of-state folks who'd like to come
to the advanced class but don't have any prior experience. Obviously
people from out of town (who are beginners) can't affordably come for
the two weekends that the entire course stretches over.

I may offer an additional Thursday-Friday (feb 22-23) beginners' class
if I can sign up at least 5 people.

This means you guys from out of town can get the entire class in four
days in a row, as opposed to two weekends. This is geared to enabling
travel schedules.

I'd like to make a decision on this by this Thursday night so people can
make travel plans. Please email me at classregistration@... if
you're interested.

This class would probably be in Oakland, although it's easy to get to by
BART train (Fruitvale BART, or, if driving, I-880 to High St)

if you're interested in this weekday class, please email me:
classregistration@...

If you're just planning on coming to the weekend classes and don't need
the weekday session, please sign up at www.girlmark.com/tour
<http://www.girlmark.com/tour> - no need to email me in that case.

**************************
Below is the original message about the Feb 17-18th and Feb 24-25th classes

Biodiesel Beginners and Advanced classes: Biodiesel Boot Camp

I'm teaching biodiesel homebrewing during two weekends in Febuary. You
can take either one or both weekends' classes.

Locations: both of these are in Berkeley, CA-

Beginner class: Feb 17-18
Dwight Way near Sacramento Ave, hours:10-4
possible repeat of this class to take place in Oakland on Feb 23-24 -
email me if interested, I can only offer it if I get a minimum of 5
people in the class.

Advanced class: Feb 24-25
Ashby Ave near San Pablo, hours: 9-5

Each class is $120, register at www.girlmark.com/tour
<http://www.girlmark.com/tour>
if interested in the Thur-Fri session of the beginner  class, please
email me at classregistration@...

**********************
Feb 17-18: two-day class for beginners, no previous experience
necessary. This is similar to the classes I normally teach every few weeks.
10-4 both days, Berkeley (Dwight Way near Sacramento Ave)
may be repeated in Oakland on Feb 22-23

The beginners' class includes hands-on biodiesel chemistry, and an
opportunity to build an Appleseed biodiesel processor if you want to buy
a B100supply.com kit of parts for one. The class will include an
introduction to equipment design, quality testing, quality control, the
scientific process, common pitfalls, recovery from emulsions, the
factors that influence 'conversion', drawbacks and advantages of
biodiesel, and discussions of biodiesel versus solvent thinning or SVO
technologies. You will make some common 'engineered failures' and learn
what they mean. Basic safety practices are stressed.

You may use this basic class as a prerequisite for attending the
advanced class the following weekend.

***********************

Feb 24-25: Advanced Class:
Two-day advanced class covering in great detail many new things that I
(and others) don't normally teach.

I will NOT be offering this class very frequently as there is limited
interest in advanced topics.

I am also offering this class in Saginaw, MI in June and in
Chambersburg, PA in May or June (dates to be announced at my website)


************************
Advanced class details:

For the advanced class, I'd like you to have some experience (see end of
post for prerequisites). If you are new to biodiesel you can certainly
use the beginner class the prior weekend as a prerequisite.
The advanced class is longer than the regular class- 9-5 instead of 10-4.

The advanced class includes:
quality control in much more detail than 'regular' beginners' class
analysis of real-world problems with offspec biodiesel
acid-base biodiesel process, for making biodiesel out of high-FFA oil
advanced topics in dewatering
testing for soap and what it is useful for
methanol recovery and equipment design
testing recovered methanol for purity
waterless washing with Amberlite and Magnesol
slightly larger-scale equipment design (for co-ops or small farms, etc)
Treating wash water and glycerine for disposal
testing wash water and glycerine, real-world test results related to
biodegradability
in-depth disposal/sidestreams discussion
burning glycerine safely for energy
hydronic applications for biodiesel and wash water heating
More advanced discussion of safety and disaster preparation and
prevention scenarios for larger-scale processor systems, discussion of
regulatory topics for non-commercial producers larger than homebrew.
Solar applications for reducing energy inputs in production
very through discussion/demonstration of several different options in
washing, including drawbacks and advantages of them

********************

No prerequisites for Beginners class Feb 17-18- no experience necessary,
come on down

********************
Prerequisites for advanced class:
Advanced Class Feb 24-25: Prior experience required. I'm taking the
unusual step of asking that you guys put a LOT of time into prep for
this class if you are not already a homebrewer, and ask that you not
come if you can not take the time to prepare. I want to make sure it's a
high-quality discussion for advanced students (some of whom are flying
in from out of town), and am restricting attendance by experience, for
this reason.

this class is restricted to:
either:
1)-folks who are already homebrewing (see caveat at end of post about
sources of information)

2)-folks with a LOT of experience with research AND making multiple
1-liter test batches (and it's OK if you get that experience between now
and the class time, I would like you to have about 5-6 sessions of
making a liter batch, washing it, and testing it under your belt-and to
bring these batches in, so we can "grade your homework"- to get started
now see www.biodieselcommunity.org) <http://www.biodieselcommunity.org%29>
3)-folks who don't homebrew but have taken a previous hands-on class
with one of the following instructors, or a class from somebody else who
teaches from the biodieselcommunity.org 'curriculum' and keeps up with
recent developments in homebrewing in the past year:
myself, Jennifer Radtke, Kalib Kersch, "BioLyle" Rudensey, John Bush,
Piedmont Biofuels folks, Matt Steiman
note: If you have only attended a class but not homebrewed, and it's
been a while, I would like you to brush up by making a test batch or two
and trying to wash it to completion so you can bring it to class Feb 24th.

4) students attending the Biofuel Oasis advanced course the previous
week (those people only, may also attend just Day 1 of the beginners
class, since they can't come to both days because of our schedules
conflicting)

Note: Please note that if you primarily work from information from
journeytoforever.org or From the Fryer To The Fuel Tank or from a manual
from Fuelmeister or a similar plastic processor or plans you bought on
eBay, AND if you do not regularly read the quality testing/quality
control side of the Infopop/Yahoo Biodiesel/Yahoo
Biodieselbasics/Biodieselnow homebrewing forums, you may have a lot of
inaccurate information to unlearn.
I very much invite you to attend but I'd like you to do some extra
reading first to catch you up on what's wrong with those sources.
B100supply.com (quality pages and 'best of the forums' section), and
biodieselcommunity.org are good places to start, and
biodiesel.infopop.cc has exceedingly good information these days in the
various forums.


To sign up, please see www.girlmark.com/tour <http://www.girlmark.com/tour>

Biodiesel Beginners and Advanced classes in Berkeley, CA:
www.girlmark.com/tour

I'm teaching biodiesel homebrewing during two weekends in Febuary. You
can take either one or both weekends' classes. The advanced class
requires prior experience or requires attending a weekend beginner class
and getting some practice beforehand.
Each class is $120 for the weekend (ie $240 for both weekends). Register
at www.girlmark.com/tour

**********************
Feb 17-18:  two-day class for beginners, no previous experience
necessary. This is similar to the classes I normally teach every couple
of months here.
10-4 both days, Berkeley (Dwight Way near Sacramento Ave)
To find out about the next one of these beginner classes, please see
www.girlmark.com or sign up for emails from the Northern California
biodiesel events announcements list:
www.groups.yahoo.com/group/norcal-biodiesel-events

The beginners' class includes hands-on biodiesel chemistry, and an
opportunity to build an Appleseed biodiesel processor if you want to buy
a B100supply.com kit of parts for one. The class will include an
introduction to equipment design, quality testing, quality control, the
scientific process, common pitfalls, recovery from emulsions, the
factors that influence 'conversion', drawbacks and advantages of
biodiesel, and discussions of biodiesel versus solvent thinning or SVO
technologies. You will make some common 'engineered failures' (as well
as some quality biodiesel) and learn what the failures mean. Basic
safety practices are stressed. Class is a combination of lecture and
hands-in lab, with a hands-on equipment build at the very end.

***********************
Feb 24-25:  Advanced Class- New!
Two-day advanced class covering in great detail many new things that I
(and others) don't normally teach, both hands-on practice and in lecture
and discussion. I will NOT  be offering this class very frequently as
there is limited interest in advanced topics. I am only offering this
class in Berkeley in Febuary, in Saginaw, MI in June and in
Chambersburg, PA in May or June (dates to be announced at
http://girlmark.com/tour)

************************
Advanced class details:

  For the advanced class, I'd like you to have some experience (see end
of post for prerequisites). If you are new to biodiesel you can
certainly use the beginner class the prior weekend as a prerequisite.
The advanced class is longer than the regular class- 9-5 instead of
10-4. (Berkeley, near Ashby and San Pablo Ave with possible field trip
nearby)

The advanced class includes:
quality control in much more detail than 'regular' beginners' class
more time spent on hands-on quality testing including some tests not
practiced in beginner classes
analysis of real-world problems with offspec biodiesel
acid-base biodiesel process, for making biodiesel out of high-FFA oil
advanced topics in dewatering
testing for soap and what it is useful for
methanol recovery and equipment design
testing recovered methanol for purity
waterless washing with Amberlite and Magnesol
slightly larger-scale equipment design (for co-ops or small farms, etc)
Treating wash water and glycerine for disposal
testing wash water and glycerine, real-world test results related to
biodegradability
in-depth disposal/sidestreams discussion
burning glycerine safely for energy, emissions and safety discussion
hydronic solar/burner applications for producing heat for the biodiesel
process
More advanced discussion of safety and disaster preparation and
prevention scenarios for larger-scale processor systems, discussion of
regulatory topics for non-commercial producers larger than homebrew.
Solar applications for reducing energy inputs in production
very through discussion/demonstration of several different options in
washing, including drawbacks and advantages of them
other topics possibly to be announced

********************

No prerequisites for Beginners class Feb 17-18- no experience necessary,
come on down

********************
Prerequisites for advanced class:
Advanced Class Feb 24-25:  Prior experience required. I'm taking the
unusual step of asking that you guys put a LOT of time into prep for
this class if you are not already a homebrewer, and ask that you not
come if you can not take the time to prepare.  I want to make sure it's
a high-quality discussion for advanced students (some of whom are flying
in from out of town), and am restricting attendance by experience, for
this reason.

this class is restricted to:
either:
1)-folks who are already homebrewing (see caveat at end of post)

2)-folks with a LOT of experience with research AND making multiple
1-liter test batches (and it's OK if you've already done the reading and
will get the hands-on experience between now and the class time- I would
like you to make about 5-6 different liter batches, wash them, and test
them before the class-and for you to bring these in, so we can "grade
your homework"- so get started now)

3)-folks who don't homebrew but have taken a previous hands-on class
with one of the following instructors, or a class from somebody else who
teaches from the biodieselcommunity.org 'curriculum' and keeps up with
recent developments in homebrewing in the past year:
myself, Jennifer Radtke, Kalib Kersch, "BioLyle" Rudensey, John Bush,
Piedmont Biofuels folks, Matt Steiman
note: If you have only attended a class but not homebrewed, and it's
been a while, I would like you to brush up by making a test batch or two
and trying to wash it to completion so you can bring it to class Feb 24th.

4) students attending the Biofuel Oasis advanced course the previous
week (those people only,  may also attend just Day 1 of the beginners
class, since they can't come to Feb 18ths class)

Note: Please note that if you primarily work from information from
journeytoforever.org or From the Fryer To The Fuel Tank or from a manual
from Fuelmeister or another Fuelmeister-like plastic processor or  from
plans you bought on eBay, AND if you do not regularly read the quality
testing/quality control side of the Infopop/Yahoo Biodiesel/Yahoo
Biodieselbasics/Biodieselnow homebrewing forums, you will probably have
some inaccurate information to unlearn. Some of it, like
journeytoforever's quality control and testing information, is almost
entirely wrong. I invite you to attend so you can get the accurate info,
but I'd like you to do some extra reading first to catch you up.
B100supply.com (quality pages and 'best of the forums' section), and
biodieselcommunity.org are good places to start, and
biodiesel.infopop.cc has exceedingly good information these days in the
various forums.

If you need supplies for getting started practicing your skills, but
don't already have equipment, please see www.b100supply.com and
utahbiodieselsupply.com for scales, beakers, etc. You can purchase KOH
catalyst in small quantities by mail at www.braintan.com .

To sign up for the classes, please see www.girlmark.com

biodiesel advocates guide newbies through the brewing process
By Nicole Gluckstern
http://www.sfbg.com/entry.php?entry_id=2552

Cars suck. I have stickers that say so and a venerable beater of a
bicycle that underscores the point. But for every one of the
approximately 40,000 bicycle commuters in San Francisco, there are more
than 10 registered car owners, and just wishing they didn't exist won't
make it so. But I'm no hater. I'm sure glad my plumber drives a van, for
instance, and my gardener roommate wouldn't get very far without a
pickup truck to haul all that gravel and mulch. Still, the
environmental, economic, and just plain moral implications of using
anything that relies on petroleum for fuel have become increasingly
difficult to justify � especially since interest in and access to
alternative fuels are on the uptick. Last year's mayoral biodiesel
directive, when implemented, will make San Francisco the national leader
in biodiesel use for municipal vehicles. In fact, the demand for
biodiesel in the Bay Area could soon outstrip the current supply, and as
far as getting in on the ground floor goes, the time has never been
better to be involved with biofuels.

Of course, a lot of people get into biodiesel not as a career move but
as a form of activist self-sufficiency that hearkens back to the '70s
return-to-the-land movement. The notion that one can power a vehicle on
homemade fuel made from recycled cooking oil and a few bucks worth of
drain cleaner is nigh-irresistible to penny-pinchers and political
progressives alike, and the accessibility of the technology is such that
even the least mechanically minded can pick it up with minimum
instruction. /Some/ instruction could be beneficial, though. Considering
that two of the three major ingredients of biodiesel are highly toxic
and flammable (methanol and lye), it may well behoove nascent home
brewers to hone their skills in a structured environment, which local
biofuel advocates are conveniently providing.


         BIODIESEL 101

Jennifer Radtke knows her biofuels. Despite an incongruous educational
background in Slavic languages and poli-sci, she has become one of the
Bay Area's premiere authorities on brewing biodiesel and running a
biodiesel station, and she has offered courses and internships in both
since 2003. As one of the cofounders of the women-owned Berkeley
cooperative BioFuel Oasis (which serves as a station for more than 1,600
regular customers) and an instructor for the Real Goods Solar Living
Institute and the Berkeley Biodiesel Collective, Radtke is committed to
the biodiesel community*. *She teaches five different classes covering
almost every aspect of the biofuel biz for beginners and advanced users
alike. Though many of her classes are held in Berkeley, you can
occasionally find her holding forth in Golden Gate Park's SF County Fair
Building.

For tyros to the technology, Radtke teaches a one-day introductory class
covering biodiesel usage, sustainability, and home brewing. At a typical
class, she opens with a presentation on biodiesel basics, listing the
benefits and drawbacks of using biodiesel. Even to a nondriver like
myself, the benefits appear to outweigh the disadvantages by a hefty margin.

Lower emissions and a higher rate of biodegradability are things I take
for granted when thinking about biodiesel, but I certainly didn't
realize it's less toxic to the human body than table salt when ingested
and less irritating to the skin than a 4 percent soap-and-water
solution. Biodiesel's flashpoint (the temperature at which it ignites
when exposed to flames) is over 300 degrees Fahrenheit � the flashpoint
of petroleum-based diesel is about 125 degrees. Most interesting to me
and my low-to-no-maintenance requirements is finding out biodiesel is a
natural solvent that cleans out the fuel tank and filters. (Can I get it
to do my /dishes/ too?) With bennies like these, who can fault biodiesel
for its unfortunate tendency to burst through rubber fuel lines
(discontinued since 1994) or eat through your slick new paint job? Such
inconveniences seem minor in comparison to those created by toxic,
flammable petroleum-based fuels.

After a comparison discussion of biodiesel to petroleum diesel and SVO
(straight veggie oil), Radtke demonstrates home brewing and discusses
the chemistry involved. After a lunch break, the students brew their own
one-to-two-liter batch. Starting out with a quantity of recycled cooking
oil, the class tests for water and free fatty acids, a process known as
titration. (When water is present in the oil, the home brewer runs the
risk of making soap instead of fuel.) Titration determines whether the
used oil is too rancid or has been broken down too much by high fryer
heat. If the oil is deemed usable, students concoct a test brew, mixing
the heated oil with methanol (wood alcohol) and sodium hydroxide (lye).
Here especially is where the presence of an instructor comes in handy.

Unlike the finished product, the chemical components of biodiesel have a
very low flashpoint, and their toxicity is much higher. Methanol in
particular can be harmful, even deadly, if improperly handled, and for
this reason alone, many biodiesel advocates are still skittish about
taking the last step toward home production. After walking beginners
through a safe mixing procedure, Radtke discusses washing and filtering
the biofuel and assessing its quality. She also discusses how to dispose
of byproducts and offers additional educational resources. For people
who want to practice brewing bigger batches (20 to 40 gallons) and a get
a more in-depth overview of the small production industry, a three-day
advanced course is occasionally offered, often on an on-demand basis.


         ORGANIC MECHANICS

It doesn't take long for the would-be home brewer to want to start
tinkering with processors. For the mechanically unsavvy, Radtke offers
an equipment-building workshop for five participants at a time (often in
conjunction with co-instructor Alan Pryor of the Berkeley and Alameda
Biodiesel co-ops or alternatively through Real Goods). Hoarding industry
secrets doesn't seem to be an issue for biofuel distributors teaching
people how to make their product. In fact, a common denominator among
backyard biodiesel advocates seems to be their genuine desire to spread
the knowledge of their chosen vocation far and wide. Plus, as Radtke
points out, most of her processor-builder students actually come from
outside the Bay Area, some from as far away as Southern California,
where stations like BioFuel Oasis and the SF Biofuel Cooperative have
yet to materialize.

This is a paradox that Radtke and Melissa Hardy, also of BioFuel Oasis,
hope to address in their upcoming five-day intensive class, How to Start
Your Own Biodiesel Station (Feb. 18�23), walking students through the
process, from procuring fuel and testing it to applying for the required
permits and necessary funding. Other topics of interest to the budding
entrepreneur include zoning and taxation laws, equipment building and
maintenance, and even market development. By the end of the course,
participants should have a clear vision and a working business plan to
get them started in the distribution biz.

In addition to that course, BioFuel Oasis holds monthly fuel
filter�changing workshops on-site (next scheduled for Jan. 21). Since
biofuel has such a solvent effect, cars that have just recently switched
over from regular diesel run the risk of clogging from the leftover
residue dredged out by the introduced biofuel. For a $10 to $20 sliding
scale fee and about 30 minutes of time, attendees learn to replace
their* *filters, a much preferable option to waiting until they clog on
the freeway. Registration and information for any of these classes can
be found on the following Web sites: www.backyardbiodiesel.org,
www.biofueloasis.com, and (for classes connected with the Solar Living
Institute) www.solarliving.org.


         MASTERS OF THE BREW

Of course, even the acknowledged masters of their craft were once
beginners too. For Jennifer Radtke and dozens of other home brew
aficionados in the Bay Area and around the country, the force behind
their fascination is one Maria "girl Mark" Alovert. With a background in
grassroots activism, girl Mark is one of the nation's most vocal
proponents of home-brewed biofuels and the inventor of the ubiquitous
appleseed processor, which can be made cheaply from an old hot-water
heater and a handful of hardware store components. Her self-published
/Biodiesel Homebrew Guide/ is considered the definitive guide to home
brewing, and her two- to four-day seminars for beginners and advanced
students alike fill up months in advance. In addition to teaching and
touring, girl Mark is a member and sometime moderator of several
biodiesel forums and the instigator of a peer-reviewed home-brewing and
equipment-building Web site known as the Collaborative Biodiesel
Tutorial (www.biodieselcommunity.org). A schedule of her classes and
tour dates can be found online at www.girlmark.com and www.localb100.com.

For San Franciscans who'd like their introduction to biofuel to be a
little closer to home, the San Francisco Biofuels Cooperative
(www.sfbiofuels.org) offers once-a-month orientation meetings where
interested parties can get practical advice on everything from where to
buy a diesel car to how to advance the biofuel community's agenda. More
than 200 members strong, the co-op's pumping station shares a location
with Incredible Adventures (www.incadventures.com), a local adventure
tour company that runs its biofueled fleet all the way to Baja. Co-op
members can pay the premium price for biodiesel at the pump (currently
$3.65 per gallon) or volunteer a couple hours per month to purchase
their biofuel for less. Hailing from the old People's Food System,
former Rainbow Grocery cofounder and SF Biofuels Cooperative Board of
Directors member Bill Crolius is also a driving force (with Ben Jordan
and Trevitt Schultz) behind the People's Fuel Cooperative
(www.peoplesfuel.org), a biodiesel delivery operation. Taking the long
view on energy sustainability, Crolius envisions a future in which even
biodiesel will be obsolete, but for the interim, he and his co-op
compatriots believe it serves an essential role in weaning people off
fossil fuels.

David Dias, advanced transportation and technology project coordinator
at City College, organizes workshops on a variety of alternative fueling
technologies, including biodiesel, natural gas, and SVO. He also heads
the Biodiesel Conversion Club, an extracurricular group dedicated to
converting muscle cars such as El Caminos into biodiesel road warriors.
Most of the workshops cost money but are open to the general public.
Contact Dias for details at (415) 550-4455 or ddias@...
<mailto:ddias@...>.

For nondrivers this is something of a nonissue, but for people who
aren't quite ready to give up the family car or rely on their vehicle
the way contractors do, the siren song of home brewing is a seductive
one. It doesn't take much space either: a corner of your garage or the
back of a toolshed will do. In light of our national crude addiction and
the wars being waged on its behalf, biodiesel is a compelling product;
and while there is a San Francisco�based large-scale biodiesel
production company in the works (www.sfbiodiesel.com), the reality is
that low-cost biodiesel on demand is still a few years away � a reality
that makes home brewing an attractive solution and, in time, perhaps
even the ultimate answer. *

note: no RSVP needed, just show up:

Algae Bioenergy and local biofuels efforts presentation and lecture
Tuesday, January 9th, 6:15 - 9 pm

at Artists' Television Access, 992 Valencia Street (at 21st), San Francisco
admission free, donations accepted for space rental


for more information: classregistration@...
transit directions and info: http://www.atasite.org/about/
(please don't call ATA, they wont' be able to answer questions about the
talk as we're just renting from them)

Speakers:
Karri Ving and/or Ben Jordan, San Francisco Biofuels Co-op
(http://sfbiofuels.org/)
will present about the SF co-op and City of San Francisco biodiesel
initiatives

Kari Lemons of Biodiesel Council of California
(http://biodieselcouncil.org/) will present about the BCC's statewide
efforts to support sustainable feedstock production in California

featured speaker: algae researcher Jon Meuser, Ph.D. Candidate -
Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Colorado School of
Mines , presenting about algae as a bioenergy feedstock:

Jon's talk description:

Our society's inevitable transition to real-time solar energy will
require a symposium of technologies that capture solar energy and
transform it into useable forms, including biofuels.   Many biofuels
depend on residues of existing industries like agriculture or forestry
and are generally geographically dependent.  However, major
displacement of fossil fuels will require the development of
fuel-specific crops suitable to many regions.   Biodiesel is a
renewable, easily mobilized biofuel high in solar-derived energy
density that already represents about 1% of the U.S. diesel market.
Total displacement of the petrodiesel market by biodiesel will require
increases in oil availability not possible with traditional
agricultural crops or byproducts of existing industries.  It is
estimated that algae can produce 100x more oil per acre than soy.  As
current technical barriers are overcome, biodiesel from algae and
other non-traditional crops will likely alleviate the problem of
feedstock availability and global dependence on petrodiesel.

speaker bio:

A native of California's central valley, Jonathan Meuser is currently
a graduate student at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) in Golden,
Colorado studying biological fuel production and identifying organisms
with ideal properties for fuel production.   His current research
focuses on the natural biodiversity of photosynthetic fuel production
by algae, including hydrogen and lipids.  When he can get out of the
lab, Jon also enjoys teaching the fine art of biodiesel homebrewing
with his mobile biodiesel processor and is a co-organizer of the
Biodiesel Coops Conference (http://www.b100.org) held in July at CSM .


For more information about biodiesel algae, see topics in the
biodieselnow forum: http://www.biodieselnow.com/forums/13/ShowForum.aspx

for more information about this event: classregistration@...
**** NO need to RSVP **

(this event is now confirmed, please cross-post to anyone interested)
***********************************************************

Biofuels From Algae presentation and lecture
Tuesday, January 9th, 6-9 pm
at Artists' Television Access, 992 Valencia Street (at 21st), San Francisco
admission free, donations accepted

speaker: algae researcher Jon Meuser, Ph.D. Candidate - Division of
Environmental Science and Engineering, Colorado School of Mines

for more information: classregistration@...
(please don't call ATA, they wont' be able to answer questions about the
talk as we're just renting from them)


Our society's inevitable transition to real-time solar energy will
require a symposium of technologies that capture solar energy and
transform it into useable forms, including biofuels.   Many biofuels
depend on residues of existing industries like agriculture or forestry
and are generally geographically dependent.  However, major
displacement of fossil fuels will require the development of
fuel-specific crops suitable to many regions.   Biodiesel is a
renewable, easily mobilized biofuel high in solar-derived energy
density that already represents about 1% of the U.S. diesel market.
Total displacement of the petrodiesel market by biodiesel will require
increases in oil availability not possible with traditional
agricultural crops or byproducts of existing industries.  It is
estimated that algae can produce 100x more oil per acre than soy.  As
current technical barriers are overcome, biodiesel from algae and
other non-traditional crops will likely alleviate the problem of
feedstock availability and global dependence on petrodiesel.

speaker bio:

A native of California's central valley, Jonathan Meuser is currently
a graduate student at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) in Golden,
Colorado studying biological fuel production and identifying organisms
with ideal properties for fuel production.   His current research
focuses on the natural biodiversity of photosynthetic fuel production
by algae, including hydrogen and lipids.  When he can get out of the
lab, Jon also enjoys teaching the fine art of biodiesel homebrewing
with his mobile biodiesel processor and is a co-organizer of the
Biodiesel Coops Conference (http://www.b100.org) held in July at CSM .


For more information about biodiesel algae, see topics in the
biodieselnow forum: http://www.biodieselnow.com/forums/13/ShowForum.aspx

for more information about this event: classregistration@...
no need to RSVP

Hello folks,
I'm 99% sure this will happen at ATA in San Francisco, but please don't
call them asking about it till I confirm for sure- if you need more info
feel free to email me:
classregistration@... .This should be a 6-9 event. Thanks to A.
Mark Liiv of SF Biofuels Coop for setting up the space logistics!
Biodiesel co-ops, feel free to come 'table' if you wish.

I just wanted to keep people updated before you all take off for any
holiday plans. I'll send out a final announcement tomorrow morning.

thanks,
Mark

Jan 9th talk on algae biofuels technology
speaker: algae researcher Jon Meuser, Ph.D. Candidate - Division of
Environmental Science and Engineering, Colorado School of Mines
for more information please email classregistration@...

Talk description:

Our society's inevitable transition to real-time solar energy will
require a symposium of technologies that capture solar energy and
transform it into useable forms, including biofuels.   Many biofuels
depend on residues of existing industries like agriculture or forestry
and are generally geographically dependent.  However, major
displacement of fossil fuels will require the development of
fuel-specific crops suitable to many regions.   Biodiesel is a
renewable, easily mobilized biofuel high in solar-derived energy
density that already represents about 1% of the U.S. diesel market.
Total displacement of the petrodiesel market by biodiesel will require
increases in oil availability not possible with traditional
agricultural crops or byproducts of existing industries.  It is
estimated that algae can produce 100x more oil per acre than soy.  As
current technical barriers are overcome, biodiesel from algae and
other non-traditional crops will likely alleviate the problem of
feedstock availability and global dependence on petrodiesel.

speaker bio:

A native of California's central valley, Jonathan Meuser is currently
a graduate student at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) in Golden,
Colorado studying biological fuel production and identifying organisms
with ideal properties for fuel production.   His current research
focuses on the natural biodiversity of photosynthetic fuel production
by algae, including hydrogen and lipids.  When he can get out of the
lab, Jon also enjoys teaching the fine art of biodiesel homebrewing
with his mobile biodiesel processor and is a co-organizer of the
Biodiesel Coops Conference held in July at CSM.

Advanced biodiesel homebrewing class

Feb 24-25, Berkeley, CA, $120

To register: www.girlmark.com/tour <http://www.girlmark.com/tour>
I'll be offering this class three times before July 2007- in Berkeley on
Feb 24-25, and in Pennsylvania in June or July and somewhere in the
Upper Midwest in late June or early July (dates not set yet)
**************************************

This two-day class presents advanced biodiesel production techniques for
those who are already proficient at basic transesterification, or those
who have already taken a one- or two-day hands-on class from me or
another teacher working from the http://biodieselcommunity.org
'curriculum' (such as Jennifer Radtke, John Bush, Steve Fugate,
"BioLyle" Rudensey, Piedmont Biofuels, Matt Steiman, and others).


In addition to presenting some of the more 'advanced' techniques, this
class focuses on teaching better quality control and safer practices,
with a focus on the scientific process that goes along with better
troubleshooting. We focus on better understanding the variables that
affect biodiesel quality, and how to design experiments and
troubleshooting protocols to isolate those variables when something goes
wrong with your production quality.

Topics covered:

quality control, two-stage acid-base and 80/20 base-base processes,
other processes for free fatty acid reduction and quality improvements,
advanced dewatering options, some discussion of methanol recovery and
flash evaporators, ethanol for biodiesel production, advanced equipment
topics such as solar heating, larger batches, 'balance of system'
equipment tricks to make your processing neater, magnesol, etc. There is
a hands-on lab component to this class which covers setting up careful
experiments, as well as covering advanced topics in testing- soap tests,
soap neutralisation, testing recovered methanol for purity and various
methods of increasing purity of methanol or ethanol, dealing with
unknown strengths of methoxide or other common mistakes, safer mixing of
KOH and methanol, fire safety, glycerine acidulation and purification,
glycerine burning for process heat, proper composting tricks, better
handling of wash water.

There will be some pre-requisite reading required for the class (about
50 pages).

The Biodiesel Homebrew Guide Version 11 should be available in January
and will include some of the material to be covered in the class. This
book will be available for sale at the class for $15 or online at
www.localb100.com/book.html <http://www.localb100.com/book.html>

Other advanced workshops offered by others:

My class is strictly about small-scale production and does not cover
activist topics (such as 'how to start a co-op') or business topics
(such as permitting). For activist biodiesel presentations, please
attend the July 2007 Biodiesel Co-ops Conference in Colorado
(http://b100.org should have information soon), and for permitting and
larger-scale production topics, please see the Iowa State University
course at http://www.me.iastate.edu/biodiesel .

This Berkeley class is also scheduled to follow an unrelated five-day
Intensive course taught by owners of the Biofuel Oasis fueling station,
called 'How to Start Your Own Biodiesel Station' . For more information
about the Oasis distribution class, please see
www.backyardbiodiesel.org/classes.html
<http://www.backyardbiodiesel.org/classes.html>. The Oasis Intensive is
a separate project, please apply to the two classes separately.

For info on my advanced production class, please see
www.girlmark.com/tour <http://www.girlmark.com/tour>

The following discussion forum thread is set up for comments about this
class:
http://biodiesel.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/419605551/m/8671046871

Advanced and beginner biodiesel homebrewing class:


December 16-17, 10-4.


This class will fit in more advanced biodiesel production techniques
than I usually teach, but is still geared for complete beginners.

Along with all the 'normal' homebrew chemistry, we'll cover the
acid-base techniques in this class, along with quality testing, soap
reduction, two-stage base-only processing, in-line testing during
production,
  dewatering, other forms of free fatty acid reduction,
quality control, washing, emulsions, ethanol biodiesel, and all usual
basic information that I cover in the more basic two-day class. This
class takes place at a shop space near the Berkeley/Emeryville border.

To register and for more information/reviews of past classes, please
see: www.girlmark.com/tour For more questions about the class, please
email me using classregistration@...
<http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/NorCal-biodiesel-events/post?postID=kd5iacPA\
zEFfYRxawcke_Txmdx7RvZHWG7QSHRBvaUatq-sqLcd4U8COTD55o8LttQppniSZosWt--2tZzvkbGVk\
2BWwgMc>

Mark

The pump in Sausalito is run by Reason and myself.  We have lowered our
profile a bit, as we had so many customers, we couldnt get our paid work
done.  Since our margin barely pays for upkeep on the system, we cant
have people calling all day long wanting to talk for 45 minutes about
biodiesel.

The regulars we have now are respectful of our time and our load is
reasonable.  Saying that, you are welcome to come by and fuel, we are
open at least 9-5 m-f but its always a good idea to call first  :)

--
Alexander Rose
Reason Bradley
415-331-2969
245 Gate 5 Rd
Sausalito



marinbiodiesel@yahoogroups.com wrote:
> There is 1 message in this issue.
>
> Topics in this digest:
>
> 1. Re: what's the story on biodiesel in Marin?
>     From: Eric Lyons
>
>
> Message
> ________________________________________________________________________
>
> 1. Re: what's the story on biodiesel in Marin?
>     Posted by: "Eric Lyons" creeble@... creeble
>     Date: Tue Dec 5, 2006 8:04 am ((PST))
>
> Hi, Tom.
>
> I don't think biodiesel's time has passed in Marin, but we still lack a
> good, convenient fuel source.  We need something like the Biofuel Oasis
> in Berkeley, which has a licensed pump and regular (if not exactly
> full-time) hours.
>
> We do have a few valiant suppliers, like Jason Pavao, and Reason
> Bradley in Sausalito that sell to the public, along with a few private
> co-ops that get their fuel from various commercial sources.  The bottom
> line is that fuel is available, but you have to work a bit to get it.
>
> Still, I see more and more Biodiesel stickers on vehicles in Marin, not
> fewer and fewer.  We're still lacking someone with the infrastructure
> (facilities) and a vested interest (biodiesel user) to create a more
> convenient solution, but I have to believe it'll happen eventually.
>
> Let me know if you need contact information for Jason or Reason.
>
> Eric.
> --- Tom McAuliffe <eikiem@...> wrote:
>
>> I'm shopping for a biodiesel vehicle, but the lack of activity on
>> this
>> board and access to local (processed) fuel oil has me wondering: has
>> biodiesel come and gone in Marin? Or am I missing something? Any
>> pertinent (or impertinent) comments are welcome. Thanks!
>>
>> Tom
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Yahoo! Groups Links
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
________________________________________________________________________________\
____
> Do you Yahoo!?
> Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta.
> http://new.mail.yahoo.com
>
>
> Messages in this topic (2)
> ________________________________________________________________________
> ________________________________________________________________________
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>

Hi, Tom.

I don't think biodiesel's time has passed in Marin, but we still lack a
good, convenient fuel source.  We need something like the Biofuel Oasis
in Berkeley, which has a licensed pump and regular (if not exactly
full-time) hours.

We do have a few valiant suppliers, like Jason Pavao, and Reason
Bradley in Sausalito that sell to the public, along with a few private
co-ops that get their fuel from various commercial sources.  The bottom
line is that fuel is available, but you have to work a bit to get it.

Still, I see more and more Biodiesel stickers on vehicles in Marin, not
fewer and fewer.  We're still lacking someone with the infrastructure
(facilities) and a vested interest (biodiesel user) to create a more
convenient solution, but I have to believe it'll happen eventually.

Let me know if you need contact information for Jason or Reason.

Eric.
--- Tom McAuliffe <eikiem@...> wrote:

> I'm shopping for a biodiesel vehicle, but the lack of activity on
> this
> board and access to local (processed) fuel oil has me wondering: has
> biodiesel come and gone in Marin? Or am I missing something? Any
> pertinent (or impertinent) comments are welcome. Thanks!
>
> Tom
>
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>




________________________________________________________________________________\
____
Do you Yahoo!?
Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta.
http://new.mail.yahoo.com

I'm shopping for a biodiesel vehicle, but the lack of activity on this
board and access to local (processed) fuel oil has me wondering: has
biodiesel come and gone in Marin? Or am I missing something? Any
pertinent (or impertinent) comments are welcome. Thanks!

Tom

I apologise for the extensive crossposting:

The forum at  biodieselnow.com is undergoing an much-needed upgrade to
an entirely new piece of software. This might take place on Veteran's
Day weekend (which is this weekend I think?).

There's an important step to take if you're already a member- they
aren't going to be able to carry over your old password for you to the
new forum, and therefore will need to be able to email you a new one.
They've been running a notice about it for a few weeks but I doubt every
member has logged in since then.

Here's a link to one of their notices about this:
http://forums.biodieselnow.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=15920

If you are on that forum, please visit now and make sure your email
address is correct so that you receive your new password when the change
takes effect.

Comprehensive biodiesel homebrewing and equipment build class

Berkeley, CA, November 4-5, 10-4
1700 Dwight Way (corner of McGee)
Berkeley, CA

to register, see: www.girlmark.com/tour <http://www.girlmark.com/tour>

Learn to make biodiesel fuel safely and build the equipment for doing so

This fast-paced class will cover all of the necessary chemistry and
techniques needed for learning standard backyard biodiesel homebrewing,
and includes a lot of hands-on practice making small test batches of
biodiesel (and making guided mistakes so you can learn how to avoid them
or fix them in the future), as well as a heavy emphasis on quality
control and testing.

I will have my processor trailer outside with an Appleseed
(www.biodieselcommunity.org/appleseedprocessor
<http://www.biodieselcommunity.org/appleseedprocessor>) homebrew processor
system on it, and we will also cover some 'advanced' techniques such as
ethanol-based biodiesel.

Optional: In the last two hours of class we'll be building biodiesel
processors for those who wish to purchase the parts to take one home. In
these classes I usually use www.b100supply.com kits. Their deadline for
shipping kits is past, so to get parts for this class, please get an
electric water heater and let me know that you want me to pick up parts
for you (same cost as a discounted www.b100supply kit, parts cost is
approx. $250)  If you do not want to buy a processor, you can certainly
just help the others and learn to do it yourself later.


for more information, please see the website at www.girlmark.com/tour
<http://www.girlmark.com/tour> or email me at
classregistration@... <mailto:classregistration@...>

Comprehensive biodiesel homebrewing and equipment build class
Berkeley, CA, November 4-5, 10-4
to register, see: www.girlmark.com/tour

Learn to make biodiesel fuel safely and build the equipment for doing so

I'm teaching a biodiesel homebrewing class in Berkeley, CA on November
4-5. The class will cover all of the necessary chemistry for standard
backyard biodiesel homebrewing, and includes a lot of hands-on practice
making small test batches of biodiesel (and making guided mistakes so
you can learn how to avoid them or fix them in the future). I will have
my processor trailer outside with an Appleseed homebrew processor system
on it, and we will also cover some 'advanced' techniques such as
ethanol-based biodiesel, and more.

Optional: for those who wish to, you can also build a processor to take
home- to do so, please get an electric water heater and order a parts
kit from www.B100supply.com (register with me first, then tell him
you're ordering for the class)- we'll build just the processor, not the
wash tank, but you can order either the simple processor kit or the
processor/titration/wash tank kit and we'll show you how to use all of
the equipment. If you do not want to buy a processor, you can just help
the others and learn to do it yourself later.

The class runs from 10-4 each day.

Since this is a class in my home town (I don't have a good venue in
Berkeley so I usually travel out of state to teach these classes), I"ll
have a lot of extra equipment to 'show and tell', including pHlip Test
quality testing, some benchtop lab gear, several variations on wash tank
equipment, various heating and filtration/collection equipment, and
more. I will have more experiments pre-arranged than is usual in these
classes.

for more information, please see the website at www.girlmark.com/tour or
email me at classregistration@...

Can anyone recomend a Bay Area diesel mechanic that could install an
elsbett conversion kit?

I am selling my garage set-up for storing and pumping biodiesel.  It consists
of:
two poly 55 gal. barrels, metal hand pump, in-line filter and 10 ft poly core
hose.  All
components purchased new through Yokayo about 18 months ago for $260.
I am selling for $125.   The system has only had B100 in it the whole time.
We're remodeling the house and don't have a place for it anymore.
Located in Sausalito.