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Dialog on Using Copper Components in SVO Designs

Extracted Dialogs from vegoil-diesel

Date: Sat, 13 Aug 2005 09:46:52 -0000

   From: "jorg_viccars" <jorg_viccars@y...>

Subject: Using copper components in conversions.

Where did the myth arise that using copper components and pipework in a  conversion causes a build up of  green film which could damage the fuel  pump.I have had a copper fitting soaking in a jar of waste vegetable  oil,half in and half out, for some three months now and there are no  signs of discolouration on the fitting.Please can any one confirm that  they have had problems using copper.

George Vickers

Date: Mon, 15 Aug 2005 20:26:46 +0800

   From: "warfa" <warfa@a...>

Subject: Re:Using copper components in conversions.

Jorg,

I also have been using copper in all of my conversions for the past 5 years. I have never had an issue with copper and fuel. I know of one member of our Association who had a copper heat exchanger in his fuel tank leak, causing coolant in fuel and IP damage.  (He is a plumber who built his own tank). That is the ONLY fuel component I have heard of which has been damaged because of copper in the fuel system.

One of my contacts passed this non-identified quote on to me: "As far as heating tanks, after talking to the Germans I would steer clear of them. For small tanks it probably could be OK, but Elsbett had a major stuff up with a conversion, and the problem was with constantly heated oil that oxidised, forming polimers on combustion, which stuck the rings and eventually blew up the engine. It cost them a lot of money. Also, I would avoid copper heating coils. 2 problems...they can crack allowing coolant to mix with the oil and copper is also reactive with vegetable oil (same with biodiesel) leading to oxidation of the oil. " This person has repeated the copper reactivity with vegetable oils, AND has added to the myth that heating of vegetable oils to 89 - 100°C will cause polymerisation in the fuel system and that this will cause coked rings and the engine to blow up?? High wear is more likely than an explosion if ring land coking is a problem, don't you think?

Tony

The Wizard of Oz

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Date: Tue, 16 Aug 2005 20:02:12 -0000

   From: "Paul" <biovolks@y...>

Subject: Re:Using copper components in conversions.

Hi all

I have seen it on a couple conversions, it must be under certain  circumstances (additives,trace ammounts of water,different types of  copper(maybe minute ammounts of brass in it?) ,etc.),I do not know  if it happens inside,I have just seen it around the threads, and  also when I was making biodeisel, but that takes a while with it  exposed to air(possibly from the lye or methanol).Anyways I have  seen it and it's definately not a myth.

Paul

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