Cutting Biodiesel Purification Costs: High FAME Yield, Low OPEX, Guaranteed Results

Introduction — Profitability Through Smart Separation

In biodiesel refining, every ton and every ppm matters. Sulzer’s biodiesel distillation solution blends high separation efficiency with lower operating and maintenance costs, enabling high FAME yield and predictable compliance—without complexity.

The Cost Structure You Can Count On

Low Processing Cost

Expect typical processing costs of USD 25–30 per ton for distilled biodiesel.

Static Separation = Lower Maintenance

Our approach uses the best static separation equipment no rotating separation equipment required cutting maintenance tasks, spares, and downtime.

High Yield of FAME

A post‑distillation candle evaporator boosts yield, ensuring more saleable biodiesel from the same feed.

Adsorption Add‑On, Predictable OPEX

When ultra‑low sulfur is required, add adsorption to achieve <10 ppm; typical processing cost is USD 28–33/ton treated distilled biodiesel.

Value Beyond Distillation

Highest Methanol Recovery Rate & Purity

Recover more methanol at higher purity—from biodiesel and glycerin streams—improving your solvent balance and reducing fresh methanol purchases.

Glycerin to Value

Elevate crude glycerin via drying, fatty matter separation, and refining to USP grade—or convert glycerin to propylene glycol for additional margin.

De‑Risking Delivery and Performance

• Guaranteed performance supported by a long reference list

• Reference plant in operation

• Testing facilities available to validate your feed and economics

• Full ISBL, skid supply, or customizable scope

  
  

FAQ

Q1: What’s the typical OPEX per ton?

A: USD 25–30/ton for distilled biodiesel; USD 28–33/ton for the adsorption add‑on.

Q2: How does this system lower maintenance?

A: It uses static separation with no rotating separation equipment, reducing moving‑part wear and maintenance overhead.

Q3: Can we increase yield without compromising quality?

A: Yes. The post‑distillation candle evaporator increases FAME yield while maintaining target specs.

Q4: Do you guarantee compliance outcomes?

A: We offer guaranteed performance for the agreed scope and targets, backed by references and testing.

Q5: How do methanol recovery improvements show up financially?

A: Higher recovery and purity reduce fresh methanol purchases and waste handling, improving the operating margin.

Q6: How flexible is the scope and delivery model?

A: Choose ISBL, skid, or custom to match your capex and schedule.

Let’s quantify your OPEX and yield gains. Share your feed slate and capacity we’ll model the economics. Request an assessment