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NSWC PCD Successfully Runs Biofuel in Multi-Fuel, Outboard Engine

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS120210-19
2/10/2012

By Jacqui Barker, Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Public Affairs

PANAMA CITY, Fla (NNS) -- Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) scientists and engineers successfully demonstrated the ability to run a small two-cycle outboard engine on biofuel Jan. 24.

The test on the lightweight engine was performed by NSWC PCD's Maritime Mission Systems Division. This type of engine is used to propel combat rubber raiding craft.

"That morning, we were able to run an algae-based diesel fuel in our outboard engine and we were able to pass our performance requirements," said Frank Hamilton, customer advocate, NSWC PCD Expeditionary and Maritime Systems Department.

"While the engine development focus has been to burn readily available JP fuels, the ability to burn biodiesel can also assist the Navy to achieve a reduction in the use of fossil fuels," said Hamilton.

NSWC PCD Maritime Mission Systems Division Head Carl Walters said that the test helped determine the feasibility utilizing various fuels, such as JP, gasoline, diesel fuel marine. The test results indicated that with slight engine tuning, biodiesels can be used in outboard engines.

"It would not be a difficult task to optimize these engines to burn biodiesel should the requirement exist," said Walters. "Overall, test results could provide flexibility, agility and options for the operators. The use of the biofuel certainly lessens the dependence on supply lines or logistics."