How Is HVO Fuel Made?

HVO fuel is a renewable, eco-friendly alternative that promises to revolutionise the world of transportation and energy.

In this blog, we will discover and discuss HVO production, unravelling each intricate step of the process.

What Is HVO Fuel?

HVO fuel (Hydrotreated vegetable oil) is a renewable fossil fossil-free diesel that is used as a more environmentally beneficial replacement to regular diesel. HVO is designed to support the current environment and helps reduce up to 90% of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions.

HVO is chemically identical to regular fossil-based diesel but is made from renewable materials such as vegetable oil, plant oils, and animal fats.

Unlike other common types of diesel and fuels, HVO goes through a different process where it is created through a more advanced method called hydrotreatment. Learn more about what HVO fuel is here.

Hydrotreatment Process

Hydrotreating vegetable oils is a process that is increasing in popularity a becoming a more efficient way to produce high-quality fuels from renewable materials.

The main objective of the process is to reduce the content of undesirable products while also improving the quality of the product. The hydrotreatment process has different steps that take place to produce HVO. Here are the steps included below.

Feedstock Preparation

Before the hydrotreatment process begins, a feedstock preparation must take place to ensure that all fatty acids, water, and other waste chemicals are removed to allow the raw material to be purified.

The purification process ensures that the raw material is clean and is able to undergo the next stage of the hydrotreatment process.

Hydrogenation

Hydrotreatment’s fundamental operation is hydrogenation, where the purified raw material is mixed with hydrogen gas. During hydrogenation, the hydrogen gas reacts with the feedstock, including hydrocarbons, oxygen compounds, and nitrogen.

The addition of hydrogen atoms to the feedstock molecules saturates them, converting double bonds into single bonds.

Isomerisation

Isomerisation involves rearranging the hydrocarbon molecules, leading to changes in the molecular structure. This process will improve the properties of the final product ensuring that HVO provides the results expected in various environments.

Separating Components

Once the Hydrotreatment process is complete and the final product is produced the mixture has obtained various components such as water and residue.

To remove chemical components from the final product the separation of components is required to obtain a high-quality HVO fuel.

Distillation

Distillation is a well-known method for separating components from mixtures based on different boiling points of products.

During the production of HVO Distillation helps separate the fuel from water and other components. This plays a crucial role in producing a high-quality HVO fuel that can have beneficial impacts on the current environment.

Filtration

The process of filtration includes separating any solid particles from the HVO product ensuring full purity once it is identified as the finished product. This step ensures the HVO fuel obtains quality standards and is able to produce the results it is set out to achieve.

The Environmental Benefits Of HVO Fuel

One of the main reasons why HVO is increasing in popularity across the UK is because of its substantial benefits to the environment. Here are some of the key benefits outlined below.

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions

HVO fuel is known for its low production of co2 emissions when in use. Since the product is derived from renewable materials and goes through efficient production processes, it contributes less to global warming compared to other diesels.

If you are looking to make a positive change in the current environment and generate a well-known reputation around your business then HVO is the product for you.

Cost Effective

The production of HVO fuel involves a highly efficient hydrotreatment process, which results in a clean and pure fuel product. This efficiency reduces waste and maximises the yield of usable fuel from the feedstock, making the production process cost-effective.

HVO fuel has a high energy density, which means that vehicles and equipment powered by HVO can achieve good fuel efficiency. This translates into fewer refueling stops and increased operational efficiency, ultimately saving on fuel costs.

Compatibility

One feature of HVO Fuel is its compatibility with most diesel engines. When looking to use HVO as an alternative to diesel no adjustments are required to your vehicle or machinery for it to function on a regular basis.

HVO fuel is a much more convenient product for all businesses who are looking to transition to more sustainable sources.

Reduced Need For Regular Testing

Impurities are removed during the production process of HVO fuel, eliminating key factors that may lead to degradation. This means that HVO fuel can obtain a longer shelf life of around 10 years as the product is more sustainable than other fuels.

Regular testing will be required less often allowing your business to save time and money by having a fueling product to depend on.

HVO Fuel At Pleavin Petroleum

At Pleavin Petroleum, we provide customers with high-quality HVO fuel nationwide. The team can guarantee you excellent service and same-day delivery when you place your order.

HVO fuel is growing in popularity across the UK for its positive impacts on the environment. Make Pleavin Petroleum your number-one fuel supplier and purchase high-quality HVO, keeping your business running smoothly and effectively.