Biofuels and Biochemicals
At Sulzer, we deliver advanced process solutions for the efficient production and purification of renewable fuels and bio-based chemicals. Our portfolio includes technologies and proprietary equipment for distillation and dehydration, engineered to maximize heat integration, reduce energy consumption, and ensure high product purity. Designed for scalability and operational robustness, our technologies enable producers to meet demanding performance and sustainability targets across a wide range of bio-based applications.
Main applications of biofuel & biochemical industry
Biofuels
-
Biodiesel distillation
-
Bioethanol purification
Biochemicals recovery and purification
-
Furfural
-
5-HMF
-
Acetic acid
Delivering fuel quality that meets tomorrow’s standards
Biodiesel producers face increasing demands for cleaner fuels with improved cold flow characteristics and reduced sulfur content. Whether derived from vegetable oils, animal fats, or waste oils, biodiesel must meet stringent specifications such as EN 14214 and ASTM D6751. Sulzer’s distillation technology purifies trans-esterified and acid-esterified biodiesel, removing impurities and enhancing fuel quality. Our solutions integrate seamlessly into existing plants and offer scalable, cost-effective performance.
Key challenges in modern biodiesel refining
Ultra-low sulfur compliance
Achieve <10 ppm sulfur to meet global fuel regulations and reduce emissions
Improved cold flow performance
Lower monoglycerides to enhance CFPP and ensure winter-grade biodiesel quality.
Efficient recovery of valuable streams
Recover high-purity methanol and glycerin with minimal energy consumption.
Feedstock flexibility & consistent quality
Process diverse inputs from waste oils to animal fats while maintaining product quality across seasons and regions.
Smart process solutions for high-efficiency biodiesel plants
Sulzer delivers complete process solutions for biodiesel purification, including proprietary separation equipment, skid-mounted systems, and advanced distillation units. Our technology enables high FAME yield, low operating costs, reliable performance, reducing maintenance and maximizing uptime. From methanol recovery to glycerin refining, our systems are designed to meet international standards and support producers in scaling clean fuel production with confidence.
Explore our solutions for biofuel & biochemical industry
Efficiency
Decarbonization with return
Explore some of our success stories for biofuel & biochemical industry
Biofuels & Biochemicals
Malaysia
Sulzer to provide BioFlux™ technology for SEDC Energy sustainable aviation fuel plant in Malaysia
Challenge:
SEDCE is spearheading the development of this comprehensive new energy ecosystem to foster a greener, more sustainable future for the state and wants to produce SAF.
Solution:
SEDCE is spearheading the development of this comprehensive new energy ecosystem to foster a greener, more sustainable future for the state and wants to produce SAF.
Technology:
BioFlux™
Results:
Production of SAF and HVO in Malaysia
Biofuels & Biochemicals
United States
Sulzer and Avalon Energy Group form strategic alliance to advance global production of sustainable aviation fuel
Challenge:
Avalon wants to enable the scale up the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to meet growing global demand and decarbonize the aviation industry.
Solution:
Avalon wants to enable the scale up the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to meet growing global demand and decarbonize the aviation industry.
Technology:
BioFlux™
Results:
Production of 100’000 tons per year of SAF
Biofuels & Biochemicals
Malaysia
Sulzer helps build leading renewable fuel plant
Challenge:
Vandeley would like to produce SAF in Malaysia.
Solution:
Vandeley would like to produce SAF in Malaysia.
Technology:
BioFlux™
Results:
Production of 250’000 tons per year of SAF
Biofuels & Biochemicals
Thailand
Sulzer’s first licensed BioFlux unit to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)
Challenge:
Energy Absolute needed rapid implementation of HEFA technology to produce SAF in Thailand.
Solution:
Energy Absolute needed rapid implementation of HEFA technology to produce SAF in Thailand.
Technology:
BioFlux™
Results:
Production of 43’000 tons per year of HVO or SAF
150+ Years Experience
Proven track record in chemical process engineering and equipment manufacturing.
Global Presence
Worldwide support network with local expertise and rapid response capabilities.
Quality Assurance
ISO certified processes and rigorous quality control for reliable, safe operations.