Iowa Interstate testing biodiesel in locomotives

A test under way at the Cedar Rapids-based Iowa Interstate Railroad could lead to more use of biodiesel by railroads.

The Iowa Interstate began testing biodiesel blended fuel in one locomotive in the railroad's Council Bluffs yard in June. The test is in cooperation with the Renewable Energy Group, a Newton-based biodiesel producer and marketer.

The test started with a blend of 5 percent biodiesel. It will progressively increase to a blend of 20 percent biodiesel to determine the optimal mixture for its locomotives. The test is expected to take about eight months.

“Our company has been looking at biodiesel as an alternative to diesel fuel for some time,” Iowa Interstate President and CEO Dennis Miller said.

The locomotive used in the test is an older locomotive that is part of a “slug” unit used mainly to switch cars in a yard. It operates virtually around the clock.

The engine's performance is analyzed to determine effects of the biodiesel on horsepower, economy, engine wear and other issues. The testing will continue into the winter to determine how biodiesel effects the locomotive's cold weather performance.

Miller said the trial could open the door for more than 600 other railroads to add biodiesel as a fuel source. Besides being a renewable fuel source, biodiesel produces less harmful emissions.

Since major manufacturers of the large diesel engines used in locomotives don't warrant engines burning biodiesel because of the lack of test data showing how it affects the locomotive engine, the testing could provide important data.

Separately, Miller announced that the Iowa Interstate has purchased two additional General Electric Evolution Series locomotives.

The railroad bought 12 General Electric Evolution Series locomotives in 2008. They are 18 percent more fuel efficient than the railroad's older locomotives.

Miller said the new locomotives lowered maintenance costs and boosted efficiency.