Frequently Asked Questions - Farmers |
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Why should farmers want to use biodiesel and ethanol?
Biodiesel and ethanol production are a perfect way for farmers to create demand for the crops they grow through using it on their own farms.
What benefits does biodiesel offer farmers?
Farmers recognize that biodiesel is a high-quality product to use in their farm equipment. Even low percentage blends of biodiesel like B2 (2%) and B5 (5%) offer:
- Lower maintenance costs and less equipment downtime,
- A cleaner-burning fuel that is friendlier to the user and the environment,
- Exceptional lubricity,
- Longer equipment life
How much could farmers stand to gain from biodiesel’s potential to improve soybean and other feedstock prices?
Increased soybean demand is a key determinant to a potential increase in soybean prices, and the United Soybean Board says biodiesel represents the largest potential industrial use of soybeans. The economic benefits of using biodiesel are shown to accrue to farmers, local communities, end users and the nation as a whole.
Does biodiesel use void the warranty of farm equipment?
The use of biodiesel does not void the warranty of any major engine manufacturer.
How can farmers get biodiesel?
Farmers should ask their local fuel distributor to carry biodiesel. Petroleum distributors are increasingly making it available to their customers. A map with state by state distributors and a list of wholesale biodiesel suppliers is available at the NBB Web site, www.biodiesel.org.
How much ethanol can I get from one ton of wheat?
The average fuel ethanol yield is about 100 gallons (370 liters) per ton of wheat. In addition the process can yield 1/3 of a ton of high protein livestock feed, and about 1/3 of a ton of carbon dioxide for beverage or refrigeration use.
Can ethanol be made from off-grade or damaged wheat?
Yes, depending on the nature and extent of the damage to the wheat it may still be usable, although the ethanol yield may be reduced and the value of the distiller’s grains may be affected. A lower price paid for the damaged wheat by the ethanol processor may offset the reduced value of the end products.
Are dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGs) available for use by the local livestock farmers?
Yes, they are. Wheat DDGs are high in protein and will be sold for feeding poultry, cattle and even hogs for example. Any excess supply could be exported.
How many bushels of corn are needed for a typical ethanol plant?
An “average” ethanol plant today might be able to produce 50 million gallons of ethanol annually. A plant this size would require approximately 18 million bushels of corn.
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