Continuous production of palm methyl esters

A system for continuous transesterification of palm oil was developed using a continuous stirred-tank reactor (CSTR) and pumps for continuous delivery of oil and catalyst and for continuous removal of product. Potassium hydro xide was used as the catalyst, the methanol-to-oil molar ratio was 6:1, and reaction temperature was 60 degreesC. The yield of methyl esters increased from 58.8% of theoretical yield at a residence time of 40 minto 97.3% at a residence time of 60 min. However, higher residence times decreased the pr oduction rate. During long-term continuous operation, the CSTR displayed st eady state conditions in terms of product profile and methyl ester concentr ation. This process has good potential in the manufacture of biodiesel.