Diesel Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Content Analyzer

Quantifying Biodiesel Purity with the Diesel Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Content Analyzer

Introduction
As the global demand for renewable energy grows, biodiesel blends containing fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) have become a mainstay in diesel engine fuel. Precise determination of FAME content is essential for regulatory compliance, engine performance, and emission control. The Diesel Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Content Analyzer from Changsha Friend Experimental Analysis Instrument Co., Ltd. provides rapid, accurate measurement of FAME percentage in diesel blends.

Testing Principle
This instrument uses a combination of infrared (IR) spectroscopy and chemometric algorithms. A small volume of fuel (1–2 mL) is placed in an IR cuvette. A mid‑infrared beam passes through the sample; characteristic absorbance peaks around 1745 cm⁻¹ (ester C=O stretch) and other reference bands are recorded. The software applies multivariate calibration models—built from certified reference fuels—to calculate FAME concentration with a resolution of ±0.1 % (v/v).

Technical Design Features

• High‑Resolution IR Detector: Captures absorbance with ±0.5 cm⁻¹ spectral resolution, enabling clear separation of overlapping peaks.

• Automated Cuvette Handling: A motorized carousel holds up to 12 samples, advancing each cuvette into the beam path without manual intervention.

• Temperature‑Controlled Sample Compartment: Maintains 25 °C ± 0.5 °C to prevent drift from ambient fluctuations.

• Built‑In Calibration Library: Stores multiple calibration sets (B5, B20, B100) that users can select based on expected blend levels.

• User Interface & Reporting: A touchscreen guide leads users through sample ID entry, method selection, and displays FAME content along with spectral diagnostics.

Industry Applications

• Fuel Terminals & Blenders: Verify incoming and outgoing biodiesel blend levels to meet legislation (e.g., EN 14214, ASTM D6751).

• Refineries: Monitor transesterification process yields and detect incomplete conversion or residual glycerides.

• Engine OEMs: Assess fuel quality before durability and emission testing.

• Independent Labs: Provide third‑party certification of biodiesel blends for fuel card providers and fleet managers.

Best Practices

1. Sample Preparation: Filter through 0.45 µm filters to remove particulates that can scatter IR light.

2. Spectrometer Warm‑up: Allow at least 30 minutes for the IR source and detector to stabilize.

3. Periodic Calibration Verification: Analyze certified reference materials daily to detect calibration drift.

4. Cuvette Maintenance: Clean with spectroscopic‑grade solvents and lint‑free tissues to avoid scratches or residue.