BioFuels Journal

Blackmer Provane™ and XL Series Pumps Help GEN-X Energy Group Reach Biodiesel Production Goals

Grand Rapids, MI—What began as a unique, innovative way for Scott Johnson to reduce the monthly cost of commuting for his family, has turned into a thriving business.

Tired of handing over the more than $900 per month in diesel-fuel costs, Johnson took matters into his own hands and began producing biodiesel in his garage, enduring the label of “that crazy guy trying to make his own fuel” along the way.

Well, Johnson had the last laugh as his small-scale biodiesel facility began to produce enough fuel to lower his monthly diesel costs to $350, while his neighbors began asking him to make some of the fuel for them.

Realizing that he was on to something, Johnson teamed with a few business partners in 2005 to form GEN-X Energy Group Inc., Burbank, WA, and now operates a plant with an annual biodiesel production capacity of five million gallons.

The company plans to grow its capacity to 15-30 million gallons, in the coming years depending on feedstock availability.

Early on in the planning stages, Johnson and his partners turned to equipment distributor Northwest Pump & Equipment Co., Spokane, WA, for advice on the proper equipment needed for each application within the plant.

Rick Fuqua, Northwest Pump’s resident biodiesel expert, consulted with Johnson and immediately began discussing the company’s options since pumps are one of the key components within a biodiesel production plant.

Fuqua suggested to GEN-X the use of Blackmer ProVane® Motor Speed Sliding Vane Pumps for their methanol recovery, caustic (in this case, it’s potassium hydroxide), Magnesol (for their wash) and multi oil feedstock-transfer applications.

Fuqua also recommended the use of Blackmer XL Series pumps for high-speed trucking loading and transfer rate applications throughout the plant.

Johnson agreed and installed Blackmer pumps throughout the facility. Since day one, the pumps have been performing as expected—flawlessly.

“Blackmer pumps are known for their reliability,” said Johnson.

“You can use them in all different kinds of applications, and we certainly do just that in this plant.

"Another nice thing about the Blackmer pumps is that they will benefit us financially.

"Since they’re simple to work on, we don’t have to worry about downtime.”

For more information, call 616-248-9252.