Mobile bio-diesel unit an Australian first for WA Agriculture Department

24/8/04
Australia's first all-in-one mobile oilseed processor and biodiesel unit has been developed by the WA Department of Agriculture.
The unit will be used to demonstrate and promote the use of canola and alternative oilseeds in the manufacture of bio-fuels, bio-lubricants and bio-materials.
It will also be used by the department as part of its 'Greening' initiative to manufacture renewable biodiesel for use at Avondale, Newdegate and Merredin research stations.
State Agriculture Minister Kim Chance officially unveiled the unit today at the Dowerin Field Days.
Bio-diesel is a renewable fuel and lubricant that can be produced from a range of oils and fats. When used as a fuel in diesel engines, it can be used either as a blend or in its pure form.
"This mobile biodiesel plant is a first for Australia in mobility and public accessibility to this simple but effective technology," Mr Chance said.
"It will allow for the exploration of further value-adding opportunities for oilseeds for industrial use and help raise awareness of the potential of biofuels and lubricants in regional Western Australia.
"Biodiesel may not be economic in the present environment but as the price of mineral fuels increase it is likely to become a viable alternative and is likely to have a significant potential in diesel blends."
The Minister said canola continued to be the most important oilseed crop for WA farming systems and breeding programs had focused on oil quality for human consumption.
Quality was less important in fuel crop development and there was potential to develop hardier alternative oilseeds for low rainfall areas of the Wheatbelt such as carinata, crambe and Ethiopian mustard.
"The mobility of the biodiesel processor and unit gives the department the capacity to process industrial oilseeds on site across the research stations," Mr Chance said.
"The department will aim to replace 25,000 litres of mineral diesel with renewable biodiesel for use at Avondale, Newdegate and Merredin research stations.
"When the unit is not required for community awareness, the research stations will operate it and monitor fuel use and performance of farm vehicles."

The oilseed processor and biodiesel unit is built on a six-metre trailer and comprises two 125kg/hr oilseed expeller powered by biodiesel, mixing tanks, filters, decanting tank, pumps, augers and fuel storage tanks.

An on-board diesel generator, which is used to power augers and pumps, also runs on the biodiesel so the unit remains independent of mains power and can utilise oilseeds to operate anywhere in the Wheatbelt.
The unit will be displayed at the Dowerin Machinery Field Days, Newdegate Field Day, Avondale, Merredin and Newdegate research station field days and the Avondale Harvest Festival at Beverley.
Minister's office: 9213 6700