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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2010

Study Reveals Cloud Point of Iowa
Diesel Fuel Varies by 14 Degrees

JOHNSTON, IA – The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) today released the results of a new study showing a 14-degree variation in the cloud point of diesel fuel collected from six terminals in Iowa.  The study, performed by MEG Corp out of Minneapolis, Minnesota, analyzed diesel samples drawn on the same days during the months of November, December and January from terminals in Mason City, Waterloo, Sioux City, Des Moines, Iowa City and Omaha to determine cloud points.  The results of each sample were then presented to the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association. 

“The results of this study are significant because they demonstrate that the existing cloud point variation of diesel fuel in Iowa is more than twice as extensive as the cloud point impact of adding a 5 percent biodiesel blend to diesel fuel,” said IRFA Executive Director Monte Shaw.   

According to the Renewable Energy Group (REG) in Ames, IA, B5 (diesel fuel blended with 5 percent biodiesel) has a cloud point that is 3 to 6 degrees higher than straight diesel.  Therefore, the cloud point effect of B5 is well within the demonstrated 14 degree cloud point variation of diesel fuel offered throughout the state. 

“Biodiesel is not only better for your engine, the environment and the economy, it will also perform in cold weather,” said Shaw.  “Under a B5 Fuel Quality Standard, Iowans will not have to change their cold weather diesel management because 5% biodiesel does not meaningfully change the cold weather properties of #2 diesel.  You treat a B5 blend just the same.  Rest assured, Iowans can use high quality, Iowa-produced B5 year-round--even in the coldest weather!”

Iowa is the leader in renewable fuels production.  Iowa has 39 ethanol refineries capable of producing nearly 3.3 billion gallons annually. In addition, Iowa has 15 biodiesel facilities with the capacity to produce over 322 million gallons annually.

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association was formed in 2002 to represent the state’s liquid renewable fuels industry. The trade group fosters the development and growth of the renewable fuels industry in Iowa through education, promotion, legislation and infrastructure development.

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For more information, visit the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association website at:  www.IowaRFA.org.