A turnkey centrifuge for $200?????
March 10, 2008 - 8:17pm
#102
Thanks for all your hard work. If there is anything I can do to help feel free to contact me. I am really excited to see some pics.
March 10, 2008 - 10:04pm
#103
The best thing everyone can do to help is just be patient and understand that we are breaking new ground. You can buy a billet aluminum rotor (for $500) or a complete CF (for $2200) from simplecentrifuge or a complete Dieselcraft CF FILTER (not a true CF, using pumps and plumbing - for about $800) OR you can wait a little while longer and buy a true COMPLETE CF for around $350 more or less. Ours is on a more "personal" level but every bit as durable as any other. I just ask that people understand we are taking on all the R&D with virtually no budget but our pockets. This requires a bit of time and talent. Fortunately I've found a true hands-on genius international (he is an American of Venezuelan descent producing products for literally all over the world) machinist with plenty of experienced help that also contribute greatly towards providing what we feel will be the best, strongest, most practical AND useful CF you can buy for the smallest investment available. Working in essentially spare time, we hope to produce a completed system (design concepts through development to testing to production) in a matter of months, something even well funded full time professional corporations often fail to accomplish. And yet we are basically half way there.
I am VERY optimistic with the results of our latest efforts and expect that this week we will have a very suitable rotor, easier, faster and cheaper to produce than anything we have tried so far. If successful, for instance, the water jet cutter is no longer necessary - a time and cost savings.
I plan to use 5 or 10 of these myself in a different venture, so I have a personal vested interest in producing a product I will be proud to own. Rest assured it will be well suited for personal use (inexpensive, simple to operate, compact, relatively carefree and capable of operating unattended "set it and forget it") as well as 'industrial' use (durable, corrosion resistant, heavy duty cycles, efficient). Something you can plug into a 110V wall outlet in a broom closet to process a tankful of VO a day or use in multiple parallel configuration to clean hydraulic oil or motor oil on a farm or industrial complex. Oh yeah, did I mention versatile?
Look for an update by week's end, maybe Wednesday.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
March 12, 2008 - 8:50am
#104
I live in central Ohio. I am fairly new to the WVO community. I think a centrifuge would allow me to process oil year round. I am interested in participating in the group buy. Thanks for the hard work involved.
Owen
March 12, 2008 - 12:56pm
#105
sounds good
March 12, 2008 - 8:22pm
#106
Quote:
Originally posted by: blhfla
blhfla
ChuckDubDubDub
Greaseburger
BrianMiller
Holyoak
GuitarGerber
grindMARC
new2greas
Rif
JimNorman
bodycounter
FosilFool
walter2
seadog
brp
VeggyPig
BrianMiller
MISJeff
praycha
5cylturbojeep
marshall2u
Hathy2
Pedrokep
Abreojos
sysco kid X2
DURAMAXLB7
jm686
wrapreynolds
salty
Pacifico
xeus (X2)
Pyrate (X2)
lonola
Drippy
jerrymaki
Graplr
cestes
Gadget111
smid87
That makes an even 40 so far.
It has been awhile since the last update and I appreciate everyone's patience. The machinist has been quite busy manufacturing custom fuel system parts made of aerospace 'super' alloys for the airline industry. He's even making the tools he needs to make the parts. I think I said it before - he's good. Lucky for us because this is proving to be a challenge.
We had decided on using SS because of availability of off the shelf materials that would help keep costs and processing down. The SS was thin enough to keep weight down, but it was too thin to weld (the mild steel cap plate is much thicker and this causes the thin SS to burn off), even with some of the cap plate removed to reduce (even out) themal mass at the joint. The machinist and his welder have a couple more tricks to try, but tomorrow I'm dropping off some aluminum as now it seems that might be a better choice. Keep in mind this is all just for the rotor so far (of course that is the most critical component and in this design by far the most complicated).
More aluminum also means less weight which helps with shipping costs. Speaking of which, I contacted UPS for a 'ball park' quote for shipping 24X24X24 (50lbs) FL to CA is about $70. 18X18X18 (under 40 lbs) is $50. We're going to TRY to get it all into 16X16X16 (near 30 lbs) for under $40.
Not exactly the news I wanted to report, but we're learning what will and won't work. We're still aiming for the original goals, but it IS going to take some time. You know the saying, "Quick, good and cheap, pick two" - ours are good and cheap.
One more thing I would like to point out. This device is designed to be as close to 'bliss' as possible .... easy to assemble, ship and store; complete, including everything except tubing, containers and electricity; versatile, with options for leg extensions and feeder oil tray; compact, able to fit in a broom closet, even with optional extensions; durable, resistant to corrosion/friendly to VO; efficient, with water and particulate separation provided by 1300G force (3450 RPM); low maintenance, without shaft seals and easy and quick cleaning; and cheaper than any other similar complete centrfiuge available, even cheaper than most other rotors alone. IOW, everything you would want in a WVO/UMO centrifuge and nothing you don't (big pricetag).
Producing such a product is not easy and doesn't happen quickly, so please be patient. I think the result will be worth the wait.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 227k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, 5 lug VR6 conversion, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
Me too. Maybe two.
Thanks. Keep going.
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A little grease goes a long ways!
March 12, 2008 - 8:30pm
#107
I'm interested, sounds like a plan to me. I was just looking at a centrifuge by Dieselcraft from Fryer to Fuel at a cost of 499.00 Ouch!
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Make mine a Diesel
March 14, 2008 - 12:49am
#108
Howdy.....
Don't get me wrong.....I'm very patient.....but....
I am needing to get a filtering system (down to my last 55 gal drum on my initial purchase of my conversion).
Do you think this will go say maybe over 2 weeks??? I just picked up two restaurants and the chance of two more are "maybes"....which means I'll need to start filtering that when it arrives.
Thoughts???
vr
Nelson
March 14, 2008 - 10:36am
#109
Hey wrapreynolds,
I can't speak for blfla, but I doubt it'll be ready in 2 weeks. These kinds of things take a LONG time to get together, especially when you're really trying to do it RIGHT. You should just set up a simple system to get you going now - take a blue jean leg, hose clamp it closed at the bottom and hose clamp the top to a 5 gallon water jug with the bottom cut off. stick that jean leg through a bung hole in a 55 gallon drum or come up with a way to suspend the jug above an open top drum. Just pour in a cubie and let it gravity filter. You can even use 2 legs of jeans, one inside the other, and that's all the filtering you need. I'm waiting for the centrifuge, too, but I've been at this for 2.5 years with blue jeans!
Smiles,
Eric
-------------------------
'81 300D - designing and building a one-tank system with onboard filtration
'98 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins TurboDiesel with Greasecar Kit, Co-Pilot
March 14, 2008 - 10:46am
#110
not to step on anybody toes but. to make the bowl spin is very hard to do. all you have to do is make the fluid spin, there is tons of ways to do this. some centi makes the outside bowl spin, some make the fluid inside spin, some make the fluid spin with inside blades. I still think the easiest and cheapest way to make a centi. is the do something like a blender. make the fluid spin from the bottom not the bowl. or you could do something like a paint stirrer. (or the paddle hooked to a drill to mix drywall mud) in other words you can spin the fluid from the top. the trick to a centi. is to make the fluid spin fast enough to throw the thick shit to the outside wall and the thin good stuff stays in the center of the tornado and moves upward. as you slowly add more fluid the thin good fluid forces out the top hole. the faster the fluid spins the slower you can add more fluid. the slower the fluid spins the more you have to add and that means you have to spin the fluid more then once to get it clean, also the thinner (hotter) the fluid is the better a centi works. Like i said a few years ago i worked at this and called and talk to US centrifuges alot. i made one out of a washing machine. it worked ok, you had to keep putting the same veggie back through alot to get it clean, the washing machine was to slow. but it did work. then i used a blender glued inside a 5 gallon bucket with a harbor freight pump. that worked alot better. again i don't want to step on toes here and i always wish the best of luck to people willing to try something. that is how new things get figured out. and like i said at the top. i will pay $200.00 for a new toy.
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I use to be ForrestGump..My Forum, ,My BLOG,
March 15, 2008 - 3:36pm
#111
Brian, I think the key words here were..."turn key"...."set it and forget it". I am not saying you are wrong, but for me, I am willing to spend a little money to keep my time to myself and let the oil filter itself. All of the filtering work has me worn out as well as my wife........lets leave that alone!
Just my view, I work 60 to 70 hours a week with my reg. job and side deals, as do you from what I have read. I like machines working for me without me being there, like vending machines.
-------------------------
Just keep'n my money where it belongs.......MY WALLET!
March 15, 2008 - 4:12pm
#112
Quote:
Originally posted by: Hotwheelbill
Brian, I think the key words here were..."turn key"...."set it and forget it". I am not saying you are wrong, but for me, I am willing to spend a little money to keep my time to myself and let the oil filter itself. All of the filtering work has me worn out as well as my wife........lets leave that alone!
Just my view, I work 60 to 70 hours a week with my reg. job and side deals, as do you from what I have read. I like machines working for me without me being there, like vending machines.
-------------------------
Just keep'n my money where it belongs.......MY WALLET!
then the best way for you is to buy a centi from http://www.uscentrifuge.com/ they have been in bizz for years and years and have all the bugs worked out. they even have self cleaning centi. ($12,000.00). that is a set up and forget it tool. if it is not self cleaning you will have to clean the bowl every 2 hours unless your veggie is clean to start with. and think about that. the easiest and best way to clean veggie is time. there are forums out here just for centi.
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I use to be ForrestGump..My Forum, ,My BLOG,
March 15, 2008 - 4:18pm
#113
March 15, 2008 - 10:43pm
#114
Eric is right. We're going as fast as possible schedules permitting. In the meantime, as he suggested, you could just use a filter. I used a GE whole house water filter gravity fed from a 55 gallon drum into another 55 gallon drum for a couple years. The problem (and the impetus for starting this project) occurred when it got too cold (even here in FLA) for the oil to pass the filter. My filter system is now functioning again as our one month FLA winter has subsided but I'm determined to see this through as I know not everyone is fortunate enough to live in a tropical climate. Also it is very difficult to obtain 1/10 micron refining and virtually zero water content through filtering. A centrifuge does a better job so for me it is the logical choice, especially if it is easy to use, cheap, compact and efficient, all of which are part of our design criteria.
As far as progress, we have a cast aluminum rotor that we'll be finishing and testing (with ample precautions in case 'Oddjob' shows up with his aluminum hat again) early next week. If all goes well (as I expect it will as this is a very true, rigid bowl, being cast) it shouldn't be more than a couple weeks to complete the brackets, mounts, legs and lid. That would leave us with a prototype around month's end. BUT remember I had hoped (and expected) to be there already by the start of this month, so don't scold me if we don't hit that target. We don't have access to the aluminum welder everyday, but he is GOOD. So we progress slowly but steadily. I strongly believe when we are finished we will have a product (nearly) everyone should be proud to own (I know I will) and hopefully you'll agree worth the wait.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
March 20, 2008 - 7:30pm
#115
The final construction (machining/attaching the "neck/bottom plate" - this is the part that will lock with the motor shaft and also eliminate [along with a collar attached to the basin] the need for a shaft seal) of the rotor began today and hopefully was completed/tested (I had to leave midday so I don't know). The machinist also had produced a basic AutoCAD drawing so after he has a more detailed version I'll provide it so everyone can get an idea of what this thing will look like.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
March 20, 2008 - 9:00pm
#116
cool
March 24, 2008 - 6:39pm
#117
Quote:
Originally posted by: blhfla
The final construction (machining/attaching the "neck/bottom plate" - this is the part that will lock with the motor shaft and also eliminate [along with a collar attached to the basin] the need for a shaft seal) of the rotor began today and hopefully was completed/tested (I had to leave midday so I don't know). The machinist also had produced a basic AutoCAD drawing so after he has a more detailed version I'll provide it so everyone can get an idea of what this thing will look like.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
Just something that I found while killing time.......http://cgi.govliquidation.com/auction/view?id=1629598&convertTo=USD
I have to add this as well. Have fun for an hour....................... http://web.govliquidation.com/auction/endecaSearch?Ntt=CENTRIFUGAL&Ntk=P_Lot_Title&Ntx=mode+matchall&N=0&Nty=1&Ns=Lot%20Number|0&words=CENTRIFUGAL&cmd=keyword
-------------------------
Just keep'n my money where it belongs.......MY WALLET!
March 25, 2008 - 8:12pm
#118
I'm very interested, include me,
Bobby
March 25, 2008 - 8:12pm
#119
I'm very interested, include me,
Bobby
March 27, 2008 - 5:45pm
#120
I want one
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2002 beetle,
March 27, 2008 - 5:45pm
#121
I mean i am interested
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2002 beetle,
March 28, 2008 - 8:15am
#122
please put my name on the list to get one maybe two.
I did,t see my name on the list to get one.
Thanks,
Bobby
March 29, 2008 - 11:08am
#123
I am going to wait and see what you come up with. I know first hand how long it takes to design and build something with a machinist. So great job hanging in there!!
For those in a rush, here is an email I got from Industrial Centrifuges:
Our centrifuges use oil pressure to drive a turbine assembly at high speeds. Oil enters the turbine bowl under pressure and exists via 2 opposing jets. The force of the oil existing the jets causes the bowl to spin and gravity forces ALL the particles to the outside wall allowing clean oil to return to the tank, particles as small as 1/10th of a micron are removed. Unlike a regular filter element that removes solids by size, the centrifuge removes solids by weight therefore can remove the particles filter elements ignore.
This is the ultimate filtration system and the good news is ........ no filter elements to purchase, change or dispose of.
The most popular models for cleaning small batches of WVO is our model FF25LE and FT60LE.
The model FF25LE has a flow of 60 usg/hr. and a dirt holding capacity of 250 cc. For 55 gal. of WVO and based on 4 passes, it will take aprox. 4.0 hrs. to process.
The model FF60LE has a flow of 120 usg/hr and a dirt holding capacity of 600 cc. For 55 gal. of WVO and based on 4 passes, it will take aprox. 2.0 hrs. to process.
Depending on the amount of debris in the oil, we recommend all the oil passes through the centrifuge at least twice.
Pricing:
Model FF25LE $185.00
Model FF60LE $215.00
Funds: US Dlrs
Delivery: Stock
Shipping: FF25LE $10.00 FF60LE $15.00
To order, please complete the attached electronic form and email or fax it to us or call 1-800-668-4835 to place your order.
For your convenience we accept Visa, Master Card, American Express and PayPal.
If you have any questions, please contact us.
Regards
David
Industrial Diesel Products Inc.
Toronto, ON. Canada.
Tel: 905-362-0423 Toll Free 1-800-668-4835
Fax: 905-362-5015 Toll Free 1-800-668-7450
http://www.dieselproducts.com
-------------------------
Fly on Fry
April 4, 2008 - 10:32am
#124
Hi,
My filtration system is taxed (not by the gov) but running 3 cars is getting difficult. I have gone from wanting a centrifuge to needing one. Between my son, daughter, and myself we are going through almost 60 gallons per week. Can you give us an update?
Thanks,
Steve
-------------------------
Don't worry about tomorrow, it will soon be the past.
April 4, 2008 - 10:52pm
#125
blhfla
ChuckDubDubDub
Greaseburger
BrianMiller
Holyoak
GuitarGerber
grindMARC
new2greas
Rif
JimNorman
bodycounter
FosilFool
walter2
seadog
brp
VeggyPig
MISJeff
praycha
5cylturbojeep
marshall2u
Hathy2
Pedrokep
Abreojos
sysco kid X2
DURAMAXLB7
jm686
wrapreynolds
salty
Pacifico
xeus (X2)
Pyrate (X2)
lonola
Drippy
jerrymaki
Graplr
cestes
Gadget111
smid87
dieselonly
Bobby Pollard
Tomato Bug
43 now. (Including Bobby Pollard!!! - I didn't forget you man, I'm just getting a little behind - which is usually a good thing ;-) - but I'm catching up now). If I missed somebody just let me know.
I suppose I'm overdue for an update, but until now we've sort of been on the back burner. However, today we balanced/finished the rotor and spun it to 1800 RPM fine. We need to get a different key to really test it on the faster machine, but until then we are moving on as everything looks really good so far.
I finally got some initial photos of the rotor and neck assembly on photobucket:
http://s279.photobucket.com/albums/kk138/blhfla/
The machinist promised top billing next week (at least for one full day anyway, maybe more) and he expects to have the base plate, leg mounts, and collar completed and assembled to the basin. Afterwhich we simply attach the legs and motor and construct the lid and then we can run unit testing and actual trials with oil to see how well it performs. If all goes as planned by next weekend we SHOULD have a working prototype!
As always, take all schedule expectations with some grains of salt. But we'll do our best as I can see the light at the end of the tunnel getting brighter.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, VR6 clutch, .658 5th, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
April 5, 2008 - 1:16am
#126
Double post.
April 5, 2008 - 7:58pm
#127
Looks great so far!
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```````````````````````````````````
1982 Mercedes Benz 300D 25K Veg Miles
http://www.chuckwyatt.com/
April 9, 2008 - 7:39pm
#128
I would also be interested in buying one.
Thanks!
April 10, 2008 - 10:23pm
#129
Three more photos added to the photobucket link.
http://s279.photobucket.com/albums/kk138/blhfla/
We've assembled the "business end" of the device and spun it to 2800RPM. Nothing came flying off like the first trial (different rotor design). Perhaps by weekend or probably next week, I'll have photos of the legs and lid/fittings attached, which means we'll have a working prototype. Afterwards, we can do some trial runs and tests, resulting in samples to Blackstone Labs for evaluation. I am quite confident that we should be ready to start the production process by month's end. Pretty much so. I think.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, VR6 clutch, .658 5th, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
April 12, 2008 - 2:30pm
#130
blhfla, it looks good.
As I posted before, I will take one if the cost can stay down. How is the cost looking now that the Harbor Freight motor may be used?
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Just keep'n my money where it belongs.......MY WALLET!
April 12, 2008 - 4:30pm
#131
Add my name to your list as a serious buyer, bfgfla.
Thanks,
Nick in Rockford
April 12, 2008 - 3:33pm
#132
Well, you know the adage: one step forward, two steps back. We spun the rotor on the 2800 RPM motor OK, but there was still some vibration that would probably (eventually) cause motor failure. The rotor itself appeared stable but for durability of the motor we need near perfect balance which we are having difficulty achieving without expensive ($1500+) dynamic balancing equipment. I guess this is why the other rotors available on the net are $500 (JUST FOR THE ROTOR!) out of billet aluminum so they don't have the balancing issues to deal with. So once again we are at a fork in the road. We will try to find a machine shop with proper balancing equipment that we can source the work to while simultaneously pursuing yet another alternative about which we are very enthusiastic: UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight polyethylene), ie., high tech plastic. It is more expensive but wouldn't require complex balancing since it would be machined billet (in our shop) and therefore the final cost would be about the same. It also has excellent properties for our application. (I'm secretly pulling for this option as our solution; oops I guess it's no secret anymore). In either case we will still use the cheaper Harbor Freight motors and STILL EXPECT THE FINAL PRICE TO BE AROUND OR UNDER $400.
One other note. I just received today a similar motor (pump) from Harbor Freight, but it is 3400 RPM, and with our 10 inch rotor should easily produce over 1600G permitting faster processing or perhaps reducing the need for preheating in very cold climates. We'll have to test the motor in the prototype device to make sure there are no issues, but it could provide a nice option for those who might need it. It is about $35 more. Plus it is made in India - I DON'T like dealing with the Chinese - they are NOT good business partners, as the recent news has exposed; they SCREW their customers AND their business partners as well - I have MANY stories from businesses with first hand experience.
We have hit yet another (of several) bumps in the road, but we are not giving up. I'm closing in on $1000 invested so far and I'm not letting that go to waste. I still expect to meet our goals - a working prototype for $400 (ballpark) by this month's end.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, VR6 clutch, .658 5th, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
April 12, 2008 - 9:36pm
#133
Thank you for not only the update, but with an unprecedented openness of your work and development in this business endeavor of yours! It gives a very good insite to those that may not understand the undertaking of an inventor and entrepreneur.
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Just keep'n my money where it belongs.......MY WALLET!
April 13, 2008 - 1:48am
#134
Thanks for the recognition HotWheelBill. I hope people understand by now that we are "breaking new ground" as we go, trying to build this on an affordable scale. The approach is not the easiest, but we hope it will be the most beneficial. Fortunately as we overcome the obstacles, I believe we end up with a better product and we are closing in on success faster every day. I'm actually starting to get excited myself now.
Which reminded me, I had more photos (of the collar), so I posted those. Hopefully with all of the photos together people will be able to get at least some idea of how it all fits together. It is somewhat of a synergistic design, like a well oiled machine, pun intended ;-)
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, VR6 clutch, .658 5th, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
April 13, 2008 - 2:15am
#135
April 16, 2008 - 2:31pm
#136
I am very interested, please count me in.
Thanks!
April 18, 2008 - 12:21am
#137
Hi there. I just came across the post. Very interesting indeed. I was beginning my search for a better way of filtering via a centrifuge unit.
I plan to patiently wait with you on this project. Please put me on the list to buy one of your units when they are ready.
Thanks for all the work!
-christopher , yeshua73
April 18, 2008 - 7:12am
#138
Where you located blgfla?
If you need somebody to hepl assemble all these centrifuges you've got orders for, let me know.
April 20, 2008 - 10:23pm
#139
So, last week I spent just about every dime I had on this great old diesel suburban. It's the horse before the cart that is to pull an airstream trailer and carry my family out of the urban insanity we are currently living in, at least, for awhile. I am excited about getting it running on vegie and even more excited after reading this thread. I don't have enough money yet to buy a kit but, after reading this thread on centrifuges and seeing cavalier 16's set-up, I began looking on craigslist for pumps, etc. I figured I could at least start building my filtering set-up or centrifuge set-up rather cheaply. I am eager to get started. Well, I found a 1 h.p. Baldor centrifugal pump, 3450 rpm. I bought it for $30.00 from a guy who says he had used it at his shop for pumping oil, that he could pump 90 gallons in about 5 minutes. My question is this: it appears to have a centrifuge of sorts attached already. I suppose that is why they would call it a "centifugal" pump. But, it is not like the ones made for cleaning diesel or wvo. The centrifuge element is solid, heavy cast metal, bolted together with about six bolts and has a gasket like a water pump and, what appears to be a bleeder valve. None-the-less, the concept appears the same. The oil is drawn into one end and spun through a cylindicular tube and sent out the other. Would it be cleaning the oil in the spin? If I put butterfly nuts on it and a rubber gasket for quick access and cleaning purposes, would it work as a centrifuge in the same way? I am new to all this and just want to see what peoples ideas are before I start taking an otherwise perfectly good pump apart.
April 20, 2008 - 11:40pm
#140
Replying to my own post: See, this is how new I am to all this. My centrifigul pump has nothing to seperate the oil from water and solids out the other side. It is only using centrifugal force to pump the oil, not clean it. Am I right? What a shame.
April 21, 2008 - 12:46am
#141
You are correct paulutions.
BLHFLA, I'm sorry to request that I please be removed from the list of potential buyers. While I think your system as the potential to be better I need something now. Thanks anyway, I'm going to continue to watch with interest.
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Just my 2 cents...
Holyoak
"With 8 kids even the suburban can be to small!"
April 21, 2008 - 7:27am
#142
Hey Paulutions, one thing you start right now in your Surban (after you filter some oil) is just mix it with Diesel in the standard fuel tank.
I have a friend who runs 25%(WVO)-75%(diesel) in two pickup trucks without any "dual fuel kit". He reverts back to 100% diesel fuel in winter.
He's been doing this for awhile in a Ford 350 and a Chev S-10 with a Nissan Diesel engine.
Good Luck, Nick
April 25, 2008 - 12:25am
#143
blhfla
ChuckDubDubDub
Greaseburger
BrianMiller
GuitarGerber
grindMARC
new2greas
Rif
JimNorman
bodycounter
FosilFool
walter2
seadog
brp
VeggyPig
MISJeff
praycha
5cylturbojeep
marshall2u
Hathy2
Pedrokep
Abreojos
sysco kid X2
DURAMAXLB7
jm686
wrapreynolds
salty
Pacifico
xeus (X2)
Pyrate (X2)
lonola
Drippy
jerrymaki
Graplr
cestes
Gadget111
smid87
dieselonly
Bobby Pollard
Tomato Bug
dieselbouy
Nick
mrbeavin
yeshua73
46. Sorry we cannot deliver this sooner Holyoak. We want to produce a product that we will be proud of and that is taking some time. We are still hoping to have a prototype by month end but as usual we are encountering 'challenges' to overcome.
Balancing the aluminum rotor was proving elusive especially without expensive equipment, so we took another fork in the road and milled a billet LDP (Low Density Polyethylene) rotor and spun it on the test rig to 2800 RPM.
http://s279.photobucket.com/albums/kk138/blhfla/
Although it appeared balanced well enough and very quiet, adding just a few ounces of water immediately produced a vibration. Further observation revealed vertical deviations in the motor shaft, which can easily produce a large impact at these speeds. These motors are inexpensive pumps designed for horizontal use and as such the bearings are probably not sufficient for this application. So tomorrow we will be adding an additional bearing to support the neck on the base plate, thus preventing the top of the shaft from deviation. I am hopeful this will solve the problem as it should be an easy, quick and inexpensive solution. Stay tuned.
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85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, VR6 clutch, .658 5th, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
April 25, 2008 - 5:06pm
#144
This is very impressive work . Thanks for all of your efforts .
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1994 Ford F250 NA 7.3 - Homebuilt WVO conversion
April 29, 2008 - 3:48pm
#145
I just stumbled upon this post today, while reading it the whole way through & what I have to say is kudos to blhfla for turning this sort of thing a reality. When you mentioned that you were trying to create a "Set it & Forget it System", my jaw just dropped, because that's the same phase that I've been using for years when describing my dream WVO filtration system. Apparently, it no longer has to be a figment of my imagination.
For those who've said that they can simply buy a Diesel Craft, while utilizing a used motor or parts, you must realize that this is an option that's not practical or convenient for the masses. Not everyone here has the time, the expertise, or the patient wife or girlfriend (i.e. whose already put up with enough of our WVO ventures) to invest in such an undertaking.
For those who are contentious about the price, you must realize that you're already saving money from blhfla, a man who has sourced an apparently talented Machinist who could easily charge an exorbitant hourly fee for just setting up his equipment alone. Perhaps this is the one advantage that the makers of the Simple Centrifuge did not have, which may explain why they charge $718, plus shipping for an incomplete set-up. Even if blhfa has to charge $400, you have to remember that he's offering a complete and working centrifuge that's new & out of the box.
The one thing that everyone must realize is that when it comes to fabrication & design, sometimes the hardest thing to do is to find is the simplest solution. With that in mind, blhfla is doing everything he can towards creating a cost effective & efficient WVO centrifuge.
In closing, you can count me in also.
May 1, 2008 - 4:17am
#146
wow! great job!!! stumbled upon this thread 10min ago while browsing biodieselinfopop
is it possible to get a motor for 220volt use in sweden(possably same as europe?) or help in finding a motor
then count me in :)
May 1, 2008 - 1:44pm
#147
blhfla ChuckDubDubDub Greaseburger BrianMiller GuitarGerber
grindMARC new2greas Rif JimNorman bodycounter
FosilFool walter2 seadog brp VeggyPig
MISJeff praycha 5cylturbojeep marshall2u Hathy2
Pedrokep Abreojos syscokid(X2) DURAMAXLB7 jm686
wrapreynolds salty Pacifico xeus(X2) Pyrate(X2)
lonola Drippy jerrymaki Graplr cestes
Gadget111 smid87 dieselonly BobbyPollard TomatoBug
dieselbouy Nick mrbeavin yeshua73 Davo53209
mantajohan
49 by my count. Thanks for the offer Nick but most of the "assembly" work will simply be packaging and that's not a big deal. There will be "some assembly required" bythe user, but it will be simple and minimal (maybe 15 minutes or so) and ALL tools (probably one or two) supplied. mantajahon, I'll look into 220V motors, but using a step up tranformer might be a better option as we are trying to standardize on one motor. We might have to bore and retap the mount holes on the motor to accept beefier bolts to reduce vibration and standardize mount hole positions (exactly), as they vary somewhat on the three (identical) motors I have, which brings me to an update.............
GOOD NEWS. After installing the bearing on the neck (bottom of rotor base plate), the oscillation of the motor shaft has apparently disappeared, at least enough that no vibration is noticed until the rotor is about 1/3 full of water. We filled it to where water was slung over the top, and there was some vibration but this may be due at least in part to the "test" mount, the motor and basin assembly clamped to a table. So next we will manufacture the legs/stand and see what happens with the vibration. We may also need to use larger motor mount bolts (as mentioned earlier) or perhaps even a second bearing. All of this depends on where the source of the vibration is.
We were hoping to have a working prototype by month's end and we "sorta/kinda" do, in that we were able to run the test rig with water and could have used oil and actually done some separating. But there still is more refinement necessary. The next step is to build the remainder of the device - legs/stand and now a support bracket for the basin to help reduce vibration. Once this is done any remaining vibration source should be more readily identified and appropriate solution apparent. I'd say by mid-month we should have this worked out, and the rest of the device will have already been built in the process, so that is our new target for the prototype.
But this is significant progress, and seeing the centrifugal process in action was both inspiring and interesting. You could even see (through the white semi-opaque top of the rotor) the liquid wall advance to the center of the rotor as water was added, another interesting feature of the polyethylene material.
-------------------------
85 MB 300D auto, 225k miles. Plantdrive kit @ 207.5k miles. SOLD
97 VW Passat TDI 5spd, 230k miles, Sprint520s, RC3, VR6 5 lug 15" wheel conversion, VR6 clutch, .658 5th, R1 Concepts slotted/drilled rotors, 2500 watt sound, Plantdrive kit @215k miles.
May 2, 2008 - 1:19am
#148
mantajohan, I'll look into 220V motors, but using a step up tranformer might be a better option as we are trying to standardize on one motor
absolutly, as long as it fits into the electrisety from the wall without frying the motor i'm ok with it ;)
simplest solutions are mostly the best
I would never have thought of a simple transformer myself
May 5, 2008 - 10:57am
#149
can you count me in for one. I already have a dieselcraft on order but I think I can find use for another.
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2003 ford f350 6.0L running on bio.
May 5, 2008 - 11:50am
#150
Put me on the list I need to update my system anyway
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Keep up the good work and thank you for taking on this venture!
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Just keep'n my money where it belongs.......MY WALLET!