Abstract:
A portable production system for biodiesel production is contained within a rolling chassis. A reactor connected to the rolling chassis includes a transparent reaction vessel which houses ultrasonic transducers arranged to disperse ultrasonic energy to a biodiesel precursor, to promote a transesterification reaction of vegetable oil and or animal fat. A mechanical stirrer, also disposed within the reaction vessel, stirs the reactants. A heater, likewise disposed within the reaction vessel, has at least one cover shaped to change a flow of reactants within the reactor vessel as they are stirred by the stirrer.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims benefit of Brazilian Patent Application PI1105959-1 A2, filed Dec. 26, 2011, and published Jun. 19, 2012 as Brazilian Patent Publication 14110003584, the contents of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    The present invention relates to biodiesel production, and more particularly to biodiesel production in a mobile production facility using ultrasound. 
       BACKGROUND OF INVENTION 
       [0003]    Industrial production of biodiesel is typically based on transesterification of vegetable oils and animal fat using methanol or ethanol as the esterifying agent, and using homogeneous catalysts, especially strongly alkaline ones, such as sodium or potassium hydroxide methoxide, and sodium methoxide. Other methods, conducted in batch or semicontinuous processes, include the use of microwave energy. 
         [0004]    For example, U.S. Patent Application 2004/0074760 A1 describes a “reactional” route in which a catalyst is mixed with the oil, and microwave energy is applied to force the mixture after the addition of a source of alcohol. It has been stated that this system is capable of producing not only biodiesel, but also fractional distillation products, such as gasoline and kerosene. 
         [0005]    Brazilian patents PI 0603386-5 A, PI 0703023-1 A2 and UM 8602286-5 U disclose high production capacity plants, starting from 1,000 liters/day, and costing in excess of 
         [0006]    R$500,000.00 (five hundred thousand reais). 
         [0007]    In Brazilian patent application PI 0404243-3, a process is disclosed for the production of biodiesel from semi-refined vegetable oil, using anhydrous alcohol and an alkaline catalyst in a heated reaction environment occurring in two stages. Both occur at temperatures between 60-80° C. when, after the first step, the products are sent to a heating stage for retrieval of the unreacted alcohol by evaporation, followed by its condensation. Once the liquid mixture is cooled and separated into two phases, the lighter one, a mixture of esters and oil, and the more dense one, being a phase which is rich in glycerin. The light phase is directed to a second reactor, where more alcohol is added in accordance with the need for continuity of the reaction, in order to achieve the desired transformation. The catalyst is neutralized with an acid additive; the alcohol, eventually in excess, is retrieved, and the phases, products of the reaction, are separated by decantation or centrifugation. The phase of interest, the light one, is washed with a water mixture, and thereafter, is strongly heated to remove the water incorporated in the organic phase. 
         [0008]    In Brazil patent PI 0503631-3, a process is disclosed for the production of biodiesel, and particularly castor oil, but is also applicable to other sources of oil, whose catalytic process, acid or base, occurs in two stages, the first one in two reaction vessels in parallel. The phases are separated into a first light phase and a second, more dense phase. The first phase is directed to a second reactor, where the lines of the first two tanks mix, for a second reaction step. This process also highlights the reuse of some of the catalyst available in the glycerin, it is the most dense part aforementioned, to reduce the emission of waste. Another aspect to be noted regards the retrieval of the alcohol, which must be added in excess to the reaction, so that it takes place more quickly and efficiently. This retrieval step is performed after the separation of phases, and the washing of the fuel produced, as a purification step. 
         [0009]    Brazilian patent number PI 0700307-2 A discloses a biosonic system for production of biodiesel through pumps, more specifically, through the use of cavitation pumps. 
         [0010]    In Brazilian patent number PI 0604251-1 A, vegetable oils, when extracted, either for use of organic solvents or in pressing process, contain in their composition not only the triacylglycerides, but also some organic acidity to some extent, due to the presence of free fatty acids. 
         [0011]    Stavarache Carmen et al. discloses, in “Fatty acids methyl esters from vegetable oil by means of ultrasonic energy”, Ultrasonics Sonochemistry 12 (2005) 367-372, tests of alkaline transesterification of vegetable oils through the use of laboratory baths of low frequency ultrasound at 28 and 40 kHz. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    In accordance with the disclosure, a portable production system for biodiesel production, comprises a reactor including—a reaction vessel; one or more ultrasonic transducers disposed within the reaction vessel configured to subject a biodiesel precursor to ultrasonic radiation to promote a transesterification reaction of vegetable oil and or animal fat; a heater; and a mechanical stirrer. 
         [0013]    In an embodiment thereof, the system is supported by a chassis having a plurality of casters, and fittings for lifting of the chassis. In a further embodiment, the system further includes one or more pumps for changing air pressure; one or more pumps for liquid; a tank for holding a recovered reactant; a tank for holding biodiesel produced. 
         [0014]    In other embodiments, the system further includes a dry wash purification column; the one or more ultrasonic transducers are piezoelectric transducers; the one or more ultrasonic transducers are submerged within the reaction vessel; the one or more ultrasonic transducers are contained within a housing; the housing is fabricated with titanium; the one or more ultrasonic transducers include a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged at an angle with respect to each other, to disperse ultrasonic energy throughout the reaction vessel; and the reaction vessel is transparent. 
         [0015]    In yet further embodiments, the heater includes one or more heater elements having a heater cover shaped to change a flow of reactants stirred by the mechanical stirrer; the mechanical stirrer includes an assembly having a motor, an output shaft connected to the motor, and one or more propellers connected to the output shaft. 
         [0016]    In various embodiments, a plurality of the mechanical stirrer includes a plurality of the assembly; decantation and distillation, in addition to the ultrasonic radiation and stirring, are carried out in the reaction vessel; and the one or more ultrasonic transducers include a plurality of ultrasonic transducers arranged within a columnar housing, each ultrasonic transducer disposed at an angle with respect to another ultrasonic transducer, the plurality of ultrasonic transducers thereby being protected by the columnar housing and disposed to disperse ultrasonic energy throughout the reaction vessel. 
         [0017]    In other embodiments, the columnar housing is fabricated to promote the propagation of ultrasonic energy into the reaction vessel; the columnar housing is fabricated with titanium; and the at least one ultrasonic transducer operates at one or more frequencies between about 19 kHz to 40 kHz. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment of the disclosure, a portable production system for biodiesel production, comprises a rolling chassis; a reactor connected to the rolling chassis, and including—a reaction vessel; one or more ultrasonic transducers disposed within the reaction vessel configured to subject a biodiesel precursor to ultrasonic radiation to promote a transesterification reaction of vegetable oil and or animal fat; a mechanical stirrer disposed within the reaction vessel; and a heater disposed within the reaction vessel and having at least one cover shaped to change a flow of reactants within the reactor that are stirred by the stirrer. 
         [0019]    In a further embodiment of the disclosure, a portable production system for biodiesel production, comprises a chassis; a reactor connected to the rolling chassis, and including—a reaction vessel; one or more ultrasonic transducers configured to transmit ultrasonic radiation into an interior of the reaction vessel; a mechanical stirrer disposed within the reaction vessel; and a heater disposed within the reaction vessel and having at least one cover shaped to change a flow of reactants within the reactor that are stirred by the stirrer. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0020]    The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and to explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present disclosure, in which: 
           [0021]      FIG. 1  depicts a process flow for the production of biodiesel in accordance with the disclosure; 
           [0022]      FIG. 2  depicts a front perspective view of a mobile production plant or facility of the disclosure, operative to carry out the procedure of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0023]      FIG. 3  depicts a rear perspective view of the facility of  FIG. 2 , with one or more panels removed to reveal interior components; 
           [0024]      FIG. 4  depicts a detailed view of the reaction chamber or vessel of the facility of  FIG. 2 , including a mixer and heater elements; 
           [0025]      FIG. 5  depicts an enlarged view of the ultrasonic reaction vessel of the facility of  FIG. 1 , visible in  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0026]      FIG. 6  depicts an exploded view of the ultrasonic reaction vessel of  FIG. 5 ; 
           [0027]      FIG. 7  depicts an ultrasonic energy power generator of the facility of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0028]      FIG. 8  depicts an alternative ultrasonic reaction vessel in accordance with the disclosure, including a submerged or immersed ultrasonic radiation column; 
           [0029]      FIG. 9  depicts an alternative multifunction reactor in accordance with the disclosure, including heating and mixing components, and an ultrasonic column; and 
           [0030]      FIG. 10  depicts a computer system which may be used with a facility of the disclosure. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0031]    As required, detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples and that the systems and methods described below can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present subject matter in virtually any appropriately detailed structure and function. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting, but rather, to provide an understandable description of the concepts. 
         [0032]    The terms “a” or “an”, as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term plurality, as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term another, as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as “connected,” although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. 
         [0033]    In accordance with the disclosure, it has been determined that it is advantageous to avoid excessive inputs which are external to the production route. Further, the use of a catalyst in a two stage reaction can interfere with reaction kinetics, where the reaction product is reprocessed as an input. Further in accordance with the disclosure, some “non-saponifiable matter, for example certain compounds that are not transformed into biodiesel when transesterification reaction occurs, as well as gums, can be kept in the oil, even if they are not transformed, for they provide some advantageous characteristics to the oil and fuel, such as stability to oxidation, as in the case of tocopherols and sterols. Further, the use of an ultrasonic bath results in good results in terms of conversion into ester, as well as improved reaction time, on an industrial scale. 
         [0034]    More particularly, improvements in transesterification processes, in accordance with the disclosure, use ultrasound to increase a degree of conversion, and to reduce reaction time and power consumption. A production unit of the disclosure tends to be more compact than other processes, especially where continuous production processes are conducted, which favor the construction of small-scale production at a low cost. 
         [0035]    The disclosure additionally provides alternative catalysts, particularly for processes in heterogeneous catalysis. This reaction environment can be advantageouss over the homogeneous process, for example being easier to use in a continuous process; providing a possibility to obtain a cleaner glycerin; and the absence of a step of neutralization of the catalyst and the continuous addition of this material during the process. 
         [0036]    The disclosure provides equipment for the production of biodiesel, and provides a reaction and processing system that improves conditions and characteristics of industrial processes of biodiesel production using ultrasound irradiation. The equipment enables the study, knowledge and control of important process variables. The equipment has the form of a facility, plant or production unit, and can be fixed or mobile, and can be used to produce relatively small amounts compared to known continuous process methods, enabling a saving in the use and consumption of reagents and supplies, as well as having the characteristic of being portable, that is, easily transported and deployed in small spaces. 
         [0037]    The device and methods of the disclosure contribute to the sustainable development of biodiesel production using novel heterogeneous catalysts; ultrasound irradiation to foster greater interaction between the phases and a consequent increase in yield; and by enabling reduced reaction time and reagent consumption to save energy. Ultrasonic energy is used for industrial production while flexibly supporting variations in process parameters, including amounts of vegetable oil, alcohol, and catalyst, and variations in time, temperature, distillation, and decantation. The reactor of the disclosure enables the synthesis of biodiesel through irradiation with ultrasound, and includes reservoirs in transparent borosilicate-type glass, which enable visual monitoring of all process steps. The reactor is additionally constructed using stainless steel in other aspects, as well as polymeric material resistant to biodiesel, for seals in particular. 
         [0038]    The disclosure enables a small amount to be processed, for example six liters per batch, although smaller quantities are possible. Additionally, the system of the disclosure is scalable, so that it can be sized to produce smaller batches, for example for teaching, or much larger batches, for example to provide fuel for a large fleet of vehicles. The system of the disclosure provides savings in the use and consumption of reagents and supplies, and can be easily transported and deployed in small spaces. A continuous process in low volumes is also supported. The reactor/system uses a dry purification process, or “drywash”, by means of ion exchange polymer resin, without generating waste wash water, which can otherwise be problematic in conventional biodiesel production. 
         [0039]    The system of the disclosure includes a self-contained production plant for the production of biodiesel using irradiation with ultrasound, including the generation of conditions and characteristics of a large scale industrial production process, in a mobile production facility. However, the equipment is relatively low cost, and is easy to relatively easier to use. In addition, the system is transportable, for example upon a truck, or within a marine shipping container. It is capable of producing up to six liters of biodiesel per batch or performing the reaction by ultrasound continuously. Its small dimensions is particularly advantageous, for example, in a classroom, or for use by laboratories needing to produce and analyze biofuels. Larger industrial quantities, for example for use in transportation or shipping vehicles or vessels, may also be produced in accordance with the disclosure. 
         [0040]    The production system illustrated in  FIGS. 2-8  works with any type of oilseed oils, including those coming from processes of cooking foods. Ethyl and methyl alcohols can be used as reagents in the process. Ethanol has advantages of being derived from renewable sources, and can have greater availability. Sodium methylate (30%) can be used as a catalyst, although other homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts may also be used. 
         [0041]    Materials used in pipes, fittings, stop valves, and tanks are selected for adequate durability, resistance to corrosion and undesired reaction, and cost. Similarly, the manufacturing process of the tanks and construction of the ultrasound reactor correspond to the joining, coupling, and care of the materials used. 
         [0042]      FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary process flowchart of the disclosure, identifying various process stages, as follows. A mixture of the reagents  100  is conducted, in which the reagents of the process, including alcohol, oil and catalyst, are mixed by mechanical stirring under controlled temperature. A transesterification reaction  102 , which produces biodiesel and other products, is performed by irradiation with ultrasound. The retrieval of excess alcohol  104 , for example ethyl or methyl alcohol used in the reaction phase  102 , is conducted by distillation. This alcohol may be retrieved  114  and reused  116 ; for example, it may be reintroduced in subsequent batches or continuous process streams. A separation of ester and glycerin phases  104  is carried out by gravity, before and/or after the distillation step  106 . To reduce time and or to improve yield or purity, a centrifuge may be used (not shown). The process produces a heavy phase which includes glycerin  110  and a light phase which includes biodiesel,  112 , which can be further purified in a column  110 . More particularly, the heavy glycerin phase cab be directed by gravity to its target reservoir, and the light phase, fatty esters, is purified in one or more columns, for example. The resultant biodiesel is stored in a target tank. 
         [0043]    An exemplary system  200  of the disclosure is shown in  FIGS. 2-8 . A front and back view of system  200 , which is an apparatus for carrying out the steps detailed in  FIG. 1  is illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , respectively.  FIG. 4  illustrates components of system  200 , including a primary mixing reactor  02 , and  FIG. 5  illustrates additional components of system  200 , including a secondary ultrasonic reactor  04 , as shown mounted to a frame  13 , in  FIGS. 2-3 .  FIG. 6  depicts an exploded view of secondary ultrasonic reactor  04  of  FIG. 5 . 
         [0044]    Structural mobile chassis  13 , comprises a rigid supporting frame for positioning and securing one or more components of system  200  relative to each other. Chassis  13  can be equipped with pad eyes (not shown) to facilitate lifting, as well as skids, wheels, or casters  15  to facilitate movement or rolling of the assembly  200 . Where system  200  is incorporated into a movable vehicle, for example a motor vehicle or vessel, or a trailer, chassis  13  may be fastened to the vehicle, or the vehicle may incorporate chassis  13 . 
         [0045]    An electrical panel, or central control  01 , can control operation of one or more elements of system  200 , including pump  06 , mechanical stirring equipment  03 , an equipment and system of compressed air and vacuum flow  08 , distiller  02 , and ultrasonic reactor  04 , to be switched on and off, and to control heating of the first multifunctional reactor. It can include a digital temperature controller, which permits monitoring of the process temperatures. For security, it can include an emergency button. Any or all aspects of control  01  may be performed by one or more of a computer system  1000 . 
         [0046]    With reference to  FIG. 4 , transparent container/bin  02 A of first multifunctional reactor  02 , which can be transparent, is heatable by an internal electrical heating element assembly  02 Q, having electrical elements  02 N that are encapsulated by a cover  02 D which encloses, encases, or otherwise isolates contents placed into bin  02 A from elements  02 N. One heating element assembly  02 Q is shown in cut-away form in  FIG. 4 . Control  01  can be used to control a temperature or on-time of resistor  02 N and thereby the temperature of contents placed into bin  02 A, for example at a temperature between room temperature and 120° C. Mechanical stirrer  03  includes a propeller  03 A, for example a naval or marine propeller, which is rotated by a motor, for example electric motor  03 B, having a speed regulated by a motor controller  03 C, and or by control  01 . 
         [0047]    Bin  02 A can be fabricated with a material that is highly resistant to thermal stress, for example a borosilicate-type glass, in the form of a cylindrical body. Stainless steel flanges or supports  02 P, and polymeric seals  02 C, resistant to the process reagents, may further be used to strengthen and complete bin  02 A. In addition to promoting the execution of the transesterification reaction, including providing containment, mixing, and heat, reactor  02  has a second function as a decanter for separation by gravity of the ester and glycerin phases, and a third function as a distiller for removal of excess alcohol from the reaction stage. 
         [0048]    As discussed, internal covers  02 D, fabricated for example of stainless steel, cover internal electrical resistance heating elements  02 N, which provide heat for heating of the process reagents. Covers  02 D additionally facilitate the mixture of materials, reducing or preventing the formation of a vortex during the agitation of the mixture, by interrupting the generation of the vortex pattern. 
         [0049]    Reactor  02 A can further include injection of compressed air, and can have flow control valves for adjusting the rate of injection. Additionally, inlets are provided for feeding of an input mixture on the upper side and four outputs, two upper and two lower ones, which can be controlled by a manual valve of tripartite sphere, and a flow control valve. 
         [0050]    An inferior, or lower output is provided for allocation of the reaction mixture to a subsequent reaction step by ultrasound, if ultrasound is not carried out in reactor  02  itself, and another output can be provided for removal of the heavy phase (glycerin). An upper output can be provided for forwarding processed biodiesel to a subsequent purification stage, if complete or final stage purification is not performed in reactor  02 , and another outlet for removing and retrieving alcohol for recycling or reuse. Coupled to this output, a vacuum pump can be provided for facilitating removal and separation of the alcohol vapor from the evaporation atmosphere. 
         [0051]    Mechanical stirrer  03  includes a pole or output shaft  03 P connected to naval propeller  03 A, advantageously fabricated from stainless steel. Stirrer  03  can include variable rotation speeds from 5 to 5000 rpm, thereby being configured for stirring substances with a range of viscosities, and enabling the production of a homogeneous mixture. Stirrer  03  can advantageously provide constant or continuous stirring. 
         [0052]    In addition to, or as an alternative to ultrasonic irradiation conducted within reactor  02 , a second reactor  04  can be connected to pretreated product from reactor  02 , to provide for initial or subsequent irradiation by ultrasound, controlled by an ultrasonic generator  05  ( FIG. 7 ), which can include a reaction parameter control system, which can be electronic, and can include a computer. Advantageously fabricated with stainless steel, second reactor  04  has ultrasonic transducers which can be constructed with transducers including piezoelectric crystals  04 G, which advantageously produce a frequency between about 19 kHz and about 40 kHz. In one embodiment, frequency is advantageously between about 19 kHz to about 28 kHz. In another embodiment, the frequency is about 19 kHz. It should be understood that other frequencies can be used to promote transesterification, including frequencies as low as 10 kHz, and as high as 60 kHz, for example. 
         [0053]    With reference to  FIG. 6 , a reactor column  04 A is cooled with a transducer cooling system  04 E, such as a fan  04 J, or alternatively a radiator, not shown. Transparent displays  04 D can contain the reactants, and enable visualization of the reaction within second reactor  04 . 
         [0054]    With reference to  FIG. 8 , an alternative or supplement to the second reactor  04  is ultrasonic reactor  16 , which includes a submerged reactor column  16 B, containing one or more submergible ultrasonic transducers  16 G (shown in a cutaway view of column  16 B), which can be piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers. In one embodiment, a plurality of ultrasonic transducers  16 G are oriented dispersed throughout the bin or vessel  16 A, which can be transparent, and which contains the reactants to be treated by ultrasound. Without being bound to a particular theory, ultrasonic energy can disperse the reactants together, reducing particle size, and improving contact between the reactants, thereby increasing the speed and efficiency of the reaction. In one embodiment, transducers  16 G are housed within a column  16 B, and column  16 B is itself submergible within the reactant. In an embodiment, column  16 B is fabricated from a material that optimally transfers ultrasonic energy into vessel  16 A. 
         [0055]    Column  16 B can be fabricated, for example, using titanium or another metal or material, for example, of a thickness optimized to resonate or transmit the desired frequency or frequency range produced by transducers  16 G. In an embodiment, each transducer  16 G is oriented to project ultrasonic energy into a different zone or region of column  16 B, for example transducers  16 G are oriented vertically within vessel  16 A, and for four transducers, oriented at 90 degrees with respect to each other. For additional transducers, the relative angle between them may be smaller, and for few transducers, the relative angle between transducers  16 G may be larger, so that transmission complete coverage within vessel  16 A is optimized. 
         [0056]    Referring again to  FIG. 3 , one or more fuel pumps  06  can be provided to transfer reactants between vessels, for example to direct the reaction mixture from first reactor  02  to the second reactor  04 , during the production process. One or more fuel filters  07  can be provided to retain any particulate being passed, for example from reactor  02 , and can be provided upstream of pump  06  to protect pump  06 . 
         [0057]    One or more vacuum or compressor (negative or positive) air pressure pumps  08  can be provided to promote vacuum in an alcohol storage tank  09 , in order to reduce the boiling heat of the alcohol, and thus, to facilitate the distillation process in multifunctional reactor  02 . Moreover, air pressure pump  08  can have the function of providing a positive pressure within reactor  02  or other reactor vessel during the biodiesel purification process. 
         [0058]    Alcohol tank  09  ( FIG. 2 ), advantageously fabricated with transparent borosilicate-type glass, has an upper side output for coupling air pressure pump  08  and an inlet, for example an upper inlet, for directing the alcohol retrieved during the distillation stage. 
         [0059]    With further reference to  FIG. 3 , heat exchanger  10 , advantageously fabricated with, for example, copper pipes and aluminum plates, can be used to remove heat from the alcohol vapor coming from the distillation stage. 
         [0060]    One or more “dry wash” purification columns  11  can be provided to remove impurities in the processed biofuel, such as soaps, trace glycerin, and residual catalyst, and can have the form of a tube or cylinder  11 A, and is advantageously fabricated with a stainless steel tube. 
         [0061]    Purification column  11  can have displays properly positioned to monitor the purification process, and saturation of the resin contained therein. Accesses can be provided in the upper and lower portions, or a side, of cylinder  11 A, for supply and removal of ion exchange resin. Upper supply  11 B can be provided in the upper part of the tube in polymeric material attached using “quick coupler” connector, and a lower output  11 C in the lower part, triggered by a flow controller valve. The flow rate of crude ester in the column is continuous, and the flow is propelled by compressed air supplied by air pressure pump  08 . In one embodiment, two dry wash purification columns  11  are provided in a lead/lag configuration, and can each contain a different purification media. 
         [0062]    Biodiesel tank  12  can have the form of a cylindrical or other shape body, advantageously constructed with a transparent highly-resistant borosilicate-type glass, with stainless steel support flanges, and seals in polymeric material which is resistant to corrosion from biodiesel. Feeding of the purified biodiesel through the top part, and for dispensing at a lower output, can be controlled by manual valve of tripartite sphere, or can be automated. 
         [0063]    Structural mobile chassis  20  can be fabricated with steel, possibly treated or overcoated to protect against corrosion, and provides a support for attachment of the tanks and equipment described herein. For aesthetics, or protection from weather or other contaminants, some or a portion of chassis  20  can be enclosed. To remove heat and production vapors, and to otherwise help cool and protect the components described herein, an exhaust system  14  can be provided, which can include an axial exhaust/suction fan/ventilator. For example, exhaust system  14  can remove any leaked alcohol vapor within or near chassis  20 , to protect from environmental exposure or flammable concentrations. Casters  15  can be provided to enable movement and relocation of system  200 . 
         [0064]    If the reactors  02  and  04 , and the tanks  09 ,  012  are made using borosilicate-type glass, stainless steel support flanges, and polymeric seals, and are connected with stainless steel piping, the total weight of a useful system  200  can, in one embodiment, be approximately 100 kg, and have dimensions of 1250 mm in length×540 mm in width×1400 mm in height. As system  200  can be scaled within a wide range of sizes, system  200  can be lighter and smaller, and much larger and much heavier. 
         [0065]    Referring again to  FIG. 1 , in one embodiment and with more particularity, the process of producing biodiesel occurs as follows. Vegetable oil eventually pretreated is added to first reactor  02  and is heated therein using internal electrical resistance elements  02 N. Alcohol, for example methanol, is added and, using mechanical stirrer  03 , strong stirring is performed to force a mixture of the two phases. Once the catalyst is added, and under continued mechanical stirring and temperature control, the reaction is carried out. This mixture may remain for as long as it is necessary so that the reaction takes place completely, for example between 60 and 120 minutes. Additionally, the reaction can include the addition of ultrasound, within reactor  02  or in a subsequent reactor ( 04 ), until the conversion into ester is achieved, for example to a minimum of 96.5% conversion. 
         [0066]    After the reaction of the inputs, biodiesel and glycerin are formed. These will separate before and or after the stage of distillation in the multifunctional reactor  02 . Due to the considerable difference in density, the process can be accomplished in part or substantially completely through decantation in the multifunctional reactor  02 , with the aid of gravity, saving energy and space, if there is sufficient time to wait for the separation. 
         [0067]    In an embodiment, using pump  06 , the mixture can reach a higher purity more quickly by being reacted in second reactor  04  using ultrasound, and can be directed back to the first reactor  02  for further processing. For example, when the ultrasonically treated mixture, still containing an excess amount of alcohol, is returned to the first reactor  02 , the temperature can be changed using heating element assemblies  02 Q, to promote evaporation of the excess alcohol, in order to increase the efficiency and kinetics of the reaction. Vacuum is produced in the system, using pump  08 , in order to remove oxygen from first reactor  02 , and to reduce the boiling heat of the alcohol, thus avoiding oxidation and subsequent deterioration of the resultant biodiesel. The excess alcohol evaporated in first reactor  02  can be passed through heat exchanger  10 , to be condensed and retrieved in alcohol tank  09 , for reuse in subsequent processes. 
         [0068]    After the distillation stage, the mixture can remain in the first reactor  02  for phase separation by gravity. The heavy fraction, raw glycerin, derived from this phase separation stage, can be removed by gravity with the aid of a stainless steel sphere valve. The light fraction, fatty esters, can be pumped in a continuous flow, passing through purification column  11  with the aid of the air pressure pump  08 . The crude biodiesel percolates through ion exchange resin which retains substantially all of the waste of glycerin, catalyst, and salts of the light fraction of fatty esters, obtaining a biodiesel having high purity, for example meeting all applicable ASTM standards, which is directed to biodiesel tank  12 . 
         [0069]    The distribution of process flow is carried out by flexible polymeric hoses which can be disposed within an interior of chassis  20 , and can include the use of stainless steel tubing in visible or exposed areas. The valves can advantageously be of the sphere-type, of stainless steel construction, and tripartite, making it easier to operate and maintain the system, although other types of valves which are sufficiently corrosion resistant, and tight sealing, may be used. 
         [0070]    In an exemplary embodiment, fresh vegetable oil is poured into first reactor  02  where it is heated to about 60° C., and is mixed with anhydrous methyl alcohol and sodium methylate 30% in methanol. The mixture is kept under vigorous stirring for 60 minutes until the reaction stage is complete, remaining at rest for another 60 minutes to separate the phases into ester and glycerin. The lower layer containing high concentrations of glycerin is removed by gravity, and the light phase containing high concentrations of fatty esters, remains in first reactor  02  for the next distillation stage, where the excess alcohol will be evaporated with heat, at about 95° C., for 40 minutes, with the aid of vacuum. The evaporated alcohol passes through heat exchanger  10  to condense, and the condensed liquid is then retrieved within alcohol tank  09 . The light phase, fatty esters, retained in the first reactor  02 , is driven in a continuous flow of  8  liters per hour, with the aid of vacuum and air pump  08 , to the purification column  11 , through which the crude biodiesel can percolate through an exchange resin, for example a polymeric ion exchange resin, which retains substantially all of the residues of glycerin, salts and catalyst. Still advantageously in continuous flow, the purified biodiesel is stored in tank  12 . 
         [0071]    In another example of the disclosure, received waste vegetable oil is poured into first reactor  02  where it is heated to 55° C. and is mixed with anhydrous methyl alcohol and sodium methylate 30% in methanol. The mixture remains under strong stirring for about a minute, and is then directed by pump  06  to second reactor  04 , at flow rate of 110 liters per hour, recirculating between the first and second reactors for 15 minutes, until the contents of ester of at least 96.5% is reached. Returning to the first reactor  02 , the excess alcohol will be evaporated by heating at 95° C., for 40 minutes, with the aid of vacuum. The evaporated alcohol passes through heat exchanger  10  to condense, and is then retrieved in alcohol tank  09 . The production phases retained in first reactor  02  remain sitting for about 60 minutes, to allow the separation of the phases into glycerin and ester, which occurs by gravity. The heavy phase, raw glycerin, is then removed through a bottom valve, and the light phase, fatty esters, is directed, advantageously under a continuous flow of about 8 liters per hour, with the aid of vacuum and compressed air pressure pump  08 , to the purification column  11 , where the crude biodiesel percolates through the polymeric ion exchange resin, which retains a required amount of residues of glycerin, salts and catalyst. Still in continuous flow, the purified biodiesel can be stored in its reservoir/tank  12 , or can be dispensed. 
         [0072]    In another embodiment, in natura vegetable oil is poured into first reactor  02 , where it is heated to 65° C. and mixed with anhydrous ethyl alcohol and sodium methylate 30% in methanol. The mixture remains under strong stirring for a minute, and is then directed by pump  06  to second reactor  04 , at a continuous flow of one liter per minute, returning to first reactor  02 . The excess alcohol will be evaporated by heating the mixture at 95° C. for 60 minutes, with the aid of vacuum. The evaporated alcohol passes through the heat exchanger  10  to condense, and is then retrieved into alcohol tank  09 . The product retained in first reactor  02  remains sitting for 90 minutes to allow a separation of the phases, glycerin and ester, to occur by gravity. The heavy phase, raw glycerin, is then removed through a bottom valve, and the light phase, fatty esters, is directed, advantageously with a continuous flow of 8 liters per hour, with the aid of air pressure pump  08 , to purification column  11 , where crude biodiesel percolates through a polymeric ion exchange resin, which retains substantially all of the undesired residues of glycerin, salts and catalyst. Still in continuous flow, the purified biodiesel can be stored in tank  12 . 
         [0073]    Referring now to  FIG. 9 , reactor  30  includes ultrasonic column  36 B containing within, one or more ultrasonic transducers  30 G, not visible, but as shown and described with respect to transducers  16 G of  FIG. 8 . Also included inside bin or vessel  30 A is one or more output shafts  30 P bearing one or more propellers  33 A, each connected to one or more stirring motors  30 B, and one or more heating element assemblies  30 Q, formed with heating elements  30 N (not visible), which can be provided with vortex reducing and protecting covers  30 D. It should be understood that the embodiment shown is exemplary, and the number, size, and relative scale of the elements described with respect to reactor  30  may be different, as best determined by the requirements and budget of a particular implementation. In one embodiment, there are at least two shafts  30 P bearing propellers  33 A, at least two heating elements  30 Q, and at least one ultrasonic column  36 B housing a plurality of transducers  30 G, although the number of each may differ in accordance with the disclosure. 
         [0074]    Reactor  30  enables the continuous production of oil, for example fresh or used vegetable cooking oil, into biodiesel, in a continuous process, without a requirement for transferring the reaction mixture to a separate vessel for treatment with ultrasound. An additional advantage is that heat can be maintained with more precision throughout the process. Further, costs are reduced as all components are housed within a single vessel  30 A. Further, an overall size and weight of system  200  is reduced. Additionally, efficiency is increased, as a combination of agitation/stirring, heat, and ultrasound together produce a more efficient reaction than one or two of these treatments acting separately. 
       Exemplary Computer System 
       [0075]      FIG. 10  illustrates the system architecture for a computer system  1000 , such as a process controller, or other processor on which or with which the disclosure may be implemented. The exemplary computer system of  FIG. 10  is for descriptive purposes only. Although the description may refer to terms commonly used in describing particular computer systems, the description and concepts equally apply to other systems, including systems having architectures dissimilar to  FIG. 10 . Computer system  1000  can control temperatures, motors, pumps, flow rates, power supplies, ultrasonic energy power generators, and valves, using actuators and transducers. One or more sensors, not shown, provide input to computer system  1000 , which executes software stored on non-volatile memory, the software configured to received inputs from sensors or from human interface devices, in calculations for controlling system  200 . 
         [0076]    Computer system  1000  includes at least one central processing unit (CPU)  1105 , or server, which may be implemented with a conventional microprocessor, a random access memory (RAM)  1110  for temporary storage of information, and a read only memory (ROM)  1115  for permanent storage of information. A memory controller  1120  is provided for controlling RAM  1110 . 
         [0077]    A bus  1130  interconnects the components of computer system  1000 . A bus controller  1125  is provided for controlling bus  1130 . An interrupt controller  1135  is used for receiving and processing various interrupt signals from the system components. 
         [0078]    Mass storage may be provided by diskette  1142 , CD or DVD ROM  1147 , flash or rotating hard disk drive  1152 . Data and software, including software  400  of the disclosure, may be exchanged with computer system  1000  via removable media such as diskette  1142  and CD ROM  1147 . Diskette  1142  is insertable into diskette drive  1141  which is, in turn, connected to bus  1030  by a controller  1140 . Similarly, CD ROM  1147  is insertable into CD 
         [0079]    ROM drive  1146  which is, in turn, connected to bus  1130  by controller  1145 . Hard disk  1152  is part of a fixed disk drive  1151  which is connected to bus  1130  by controller  1150 . It should be understood that other storage, peripheral, and computer processing means may be developed in the future, which may advantageously be used with the disclosure. 
         [0080]    User input to computer system  1000  may be provided by a number of devices. For example, a keyboard  1156  and mouse  1157  are connected to bus  1130  by controller  1155 . An audio transducer  1196 , which may act as both a microphone and a speaker, is connected to bus  1130  by audio controller  1197 , as illustrated. It will be obvious to those reasonably skilled in the art that other input devices, such as a pen and/or tablet, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), mobile/cellular phone and other devices, may be connected to bus  1130  and an appropriate controller and software, as required. DMA controller  1160  is provided for performing direct memory access to RAM  1110 . A visual display is generated by video controller  1165  which controls video display  1170 . Computer system  1000  also includes a communications adapter  1190  which allows the system to be interconnected to a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), schematically illustrated by bus  1191  and network  1195 . 
         [0081]    Operation of computer system  1000  is generally controlled and coordinated by operating system software, such as a Windows system, commercially available from Microsoft Corp., Redmond, Wash. The operating system controls allocation of system resources and performs tasks such as processing scheduling, memory management, networking, and I/O services, among other things. In particular, an operating system resident in system memory and running on CPU  1105  coordinates the operation of the other elements of computer system  1000 . The present disclosure may be implemented with any number of commercially available operating systems. 
         [0082]    One or more applications, such as an HTML page server, or a commercially available communication application, may execute under the control of the operating system, operable to convey information to a user. 
       Non-Limiting Examples 
       [0083]    Although specific embodiments of the subject matter have been disclosed, those having ordinary skill in the art will understand that changes can be made to the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter. The scope of the disclosure is not to be restricted, therefore, to the specific embodiments, and it is intended that the appended claims cover any and all such applications, modifications, and embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure.