Comparative Analysis of B35–B40 Biodiesel Blends in Passenger Train Generator Sets: Performance, Emissions, and 1,200 h Endurance Tests

Riva Yudha Abriyant; Naufal Rasendriya Azmi; Irawan Adhi Putra; Faqih Supriyadi; Yogi Pramudito; Dimaz Warahadi; Riesta Anggarani; Eki Dwi Wijanarko; Cahyo Setyo Wibowo; Ahmad Syihan Auzani

doi:10.29017/scog.v49i3.2129

Authors

Riva Yudha Abriyant Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS; Indonesian Association Bioenergy Experts (IKABI); Universitas Indonesia
Naufal Rasendriya Azmi Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS
Irawan Adhi Putra Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS
Faqih Supriyadi Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS
Yogi Pramudito Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS
Dimaz Warahadi Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS
Riesta Anggarani Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS
Eki Dwi Wijanarko Directorate General of New, Renewable Energy, and Energy Conservation
Cahyo Setyo Wibowo Testing Center for Oil and Gas LEMIGAS; Indonesian Association Bioenergy Experts (IKABI)
Ahmad Syihan Auzani Universitas Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29017/scog.v49i3.2129

Keywords:

B40 biodiesel, B35–B40 blends, passenger train generator set, endurance test, NOx emissions

Abstract

The transition from B35 to B40 biodiesel is a key step in reducing fossil diesel dependence in railway power systems, but its field performance in passenger train generator sets remains insufficiently established. This study evaluates comprehensively the fuel-lubricant quality, engine performance, fuel consumption, NOx emissions, rating component, and filter behaviour of B35 and B40 biodiesel blends in an MTU 10V1600G20F passenger train generator set. Initial tests compared B35 and B40 across different load conditions, followed by a 1,200 h dynamic endurance test using B40 during railway operation. As a results, B40 showed higher cetane number than B35 but lower heating value and higher water content, reflecting the expected trade-off of increasing FAME content. Despite this, B40 delivered power comparable to B35 at higher loads, while fuel consumption remained broadly similar under medium- and high-load operation. After 1,200 h, B40 maintained stable power output and fuel consumption, with no progressive increase in NOx emissions. All measured NOx values remained below the regulatory limit. Lubricant analysis, minor merit rating inspection, and Racor filter monitoring showed no severe oil degradation, abnormal component damage, or visible filter blockage. These findings indicate that B40 can be technically feasible for passenger train generator operation when supported by controlled fuel quality and routine maintenance.

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