Waste Vegetable Oil as an Alternative Fuel for Diesel Vehicles

Alternative fuels have become a hot topic in the news as the cost of oil remains volatile. Questions of whether acquiring alternative fuels are worth the cost, logistics, and political implications are being asked. A possible solution may be currently thrown away by Wright Patterson Air Force Base’s (WPAFB) dining establishments in the form of Waste Vegetable Oil (WVO). This study researched the benefits and costs of pursuing the installation of a WVO to Straight Vegetable Oil fuel processing center and using the fuel to power some of the base’s diesel vehicles. A pilot program was fielded utilizing the Wright Patterson Club for WVO and the Recycling Center for processing and use. From the pilot program, data was extrapolated to determine the total cost and payback period to operate the system. It was determined that a cost benefit would be realized if the entire system was fielded at WPAFB. Emissions and the risk of WVO spills would be significantly decreased. Furthermore, the system could be fielded throughout the Air Force at some southern tier large bases