Historical Perspective On The Impact Of The Diesel - Term Paper Example

Historical Perspective On The Impact Of The Diesel Table of Contents Title Page………………………………………………………………………….1 Table of Contents………………………………………………………………….2 1. Introduction……………………………………………………………………..3 1.1 Diesel Engine- History………………………………………………………...4 1.1.1 New Engine Design………………………………………………………….4 1.1.2 Engine a Success……………………………………………………………..4 1.1.3 Usage in Sub-Marines and Ships…………………………………………….4 1.1.4 Rudolf’s Vision………………………………………………………………5 1.2 Development of the Diesel Engine………………………………………….....5 1.2.1 Alteration of the Engine……………………………………………………...5 1.2.2 Dominance of Petroleum Industry…………………………………………...6 1.2.3 Oil Crisis in America………………………………………………………...6 1.2.4 Diesel Automobiles in America……………………………………………...6 1.3 Contemporary Diesel Engine Technology……………………………………..7 1.3.1 New Improved Diesel Vehicles……………………………………………...7 1.3.2 EPA Emissions Standards and Regulations………………………………….7 1.3.3 Models in the Market…………………………………………………………8 2. Biodiesel………………………………………………………………………....8 2.1 The Uses of Biodiesel…………………………………………………………..9 2.1. 1 Vehicles and Machines………………………………………………………9 2.1. 2 Agricultural Equipments……………………………………………………..9 2.1. 3 Marine Equipment……………………………………………………………9 2.1. 4 Solvent……………………………………………………………………….10 3. Economic Impact………………………………………………………………...10 3.1.1 Individual Reach……………………………………………………………...10 3.1.2 Better Health………………………………………………………………….11 3.1.3 Safe Environment……………………………………………………………..11 3.1.4 Reduction of Pollution………………………………………………………...11 3.1.5 Reduced Sulfur Emissions…………………………………………………….11 3.1.6 Agriculture Development……………………………………………………...12 3.1.7 Empowering Communities…………………………………………………….12 3.2 National Security………………………………………………………………...13 4. Conclusion………………………………………………………………………...14 5. References…………………………………………………………………………15 1. Introduction According to the U.S Energy Information Administration diesel engine is responsible for shipping up to 95 percent of domestic goods (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2001). As a result the industry has come under intense government and public scrutiny. Most of the concerns raised point to greenhouse effect of the diesel engines. Diesel fuel is named after the inventor Rudolf Diesel and it is the common fuel for heavy compression ignition engines (Cummins, 1993). Equipments used in construction work, power trains, buses and trucks have popularized diesel fuel. Similarly, in industrial facilities, large buildings and hospitals the fuel is used to generate electricity mostly to back up as emergency power. In 2008 it is estimated the U.S. produced almost its entire need for diesel fuel. Even though the supply is sufficient to cater for demand, the impact on the environment continues to raise concerns. In order to curtail effects on people’s health and the environment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulates and monitors its chemical properties carefully (National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology, 2007). However, there is hope even as the government seems committed with ensuring better health and safe environment for its citizens. Biodiesel is one of the alternative fuels proved to be safe to the environmental and health. So far the fuel is being utilized in a number of sectors including government agencies, agriculture, construction, marine equipments, vehicles and machines. Despite this utilization more need to be done to increase production and use of the fuel. So far United States relies heavily on foreign oil (Klare, 2007). The need to import more increases by the day as the demand continue to rise. For many years the country sends out billions of dollars to purchase crude oil. Ironically, United States has the potential to produce enough biofuels to cater for its rising energy needs. Suggestions to adopt biofuels are strongly favored mostly due to its apparent impact on the economy. As shown in the essay, the benefits for such a move are enormous including job creation, growth in agricultural productivity, health and environmental benefits etc. Gradually, people have come to realize the importance of biodiesel (Jinke et al, 2008). It mostly empowers communities, regions and individual thus ensuring development. It is believed that some of the bottlenecks will be surmounted seeing to a fruition of the industry in America. 1.1 Diesel Engine – History 1. New Engine Design It is almost impossible to separate the history of diesel engine with that of biofuels. Development of both the diesel engine and biofuel occurred simultaneously in an environment of technological advancement, economic and political struggles. Advancement in technology of diesel engine was catapulted to its current development through the influence of economic and political impact of biofuels. In response to what was perceived as production inefficiency of the steam engine, Rudolph Diesel came up with a theory that saw to a new engine design. The first model was put to test by Diesel using its own power in 1893. Unexpectedly, the model revolutionized engines at the time. It recorded 26 percent efficiency compared to the steam engine which produced only 12 percent efficiency. Moreover, the latter engine consumed enormous amount of resources. 2. Engine a Success The first engine meant to be used practically was tried out in 1897. Its efficiency on this occasion rose to a staggering 75 percent. In 1898 exhibition fair in France, the engine was demonstrated. At the time occurring as Diesel’s vision, the engine was fueled by peanut oil. According to Diesel the engine was to utilize biomass in the future. He anticipated it to offer favorable competition to monopolistic firms that were primary sources of energy. Farmers, individuals and small industries were to benefit from his innovation. In addition it was to be an alternative to steam engine which was inefficient yet consumed huge amounts of fuel. The compressed ignited engines as envisaged by Diesel were powered by vegetable oil and biomass fuel (Cummins, 1993). No change was anticipated till 1920’s. It is interesting to note in the contemporary society, Diesel’s vision is coming to fruition. Once again after almost a century engines are being powered by biodiesel. 3. Usage in Submarine and Ships Due to size, early diesel engines were mostly meant for stationary use. It suited mostly shipping and industrial usage at the beginning of twentieth century. Two of the great beneficiaries of the engine included submarines and ships. On Diesel’s controversial death in 1913, the engine was used by Germans to power submarine fleets (Moon, 1974). However, such exercise had not been Rudolf’s initial plan, as he disagreed strongly with German politics. Later in 1920’s a new design of the engine was made. The design was small enough enabling it to be used in vehicles. In Berlin Motor Fair, the public witnessed first lorries ever to be manufactured. In this period 1923-1924 expectations were high and the future bright in the automobile industry. Truly, about a decade later the first automobile was built by Mercedes Benz. 4. Rudolf’s Vision As Diesel had envisioned, America would be the ideal location for utilization of his engine (Moon, 1974). In America biomass could easily be accessed, demand and size of the country made it attractive to use diesel engines. All along America was working on diesel industry. The rights for production of diesel engine in America were acquired by Adolphus Busch. In 1898 the first diesel engine was built in America by Busch-Zulger Brothers Diesel Engine Company. At the time it appeared only as a kind of pilot study since there was little investment towards developing the design of the engine. The development picked up after the First World War. 1.2 Development of the Diesel Engine 1. Alteration of the Engine Problems typical of the diesel engine including weight and size were put in perspective by Clessie L Cummins. After having purchased rights to manufacture the engines, he worked to address some for the setbacks. Just like the engines made earlier, Cummins engines were stationary (Cummins, 1993). For this reason the main market did not go beyond marine industry. Unfortunately, the same period saw to alteration of diesel engine such that only fossil fuel would be utilized. It was a major and decisive blow to biofuel industry. From this point onwards petroleum industries begun to gain more influence and recognition. Furthermore, the industries continued to play a key role in the development, design of all kinds of machines and engines. Alteration of diesel engines was the beginning of the end of biomass fuel. The public was soon made to forget biomass as a prospective fuel instead to rely solely on petroleum. 1929 saw a limousine run with a diesel engine. This installation saw a further investment to Cummins. It later opened doors for Cummins to experiment more with diesel vehicles. Soon diesel engines became well established seeing to a number of vehicles putting them to use. There has been more technological innovation of diesel engine leading to great improvement in efficiency. Engines manufactured by Cummins have been instrumental in setting standards in the industry. For several decades the exemplary show by Cummins has exceeded expectations set by the 1970 Clean Air Act. 2. Dominance of Petroleum Industry It must be mentioned however, the Ford automobiles in America were initially powered by ethanol or biomass fuel. Rudolph Diesel vision was shared by Henry Ford. He too rallied behind the use of biomass as the primary source of fuel in transportation industry. Ford partnered with Standard oil to encourage development of distribution stations and production plants. As much as there were efforts to see to the growth of biofuel industry, still petroleum industry established its roots (Sampson, 1975). Not even giants in the automobile industry would survive the wave. America was completely immersed in petroleum industry. The production and development of biomass fuel and diesel remained under the control of Europe. 3. Oil Crisis in America Nothing of the kind had been anticipated. A crisis in 1973 exposed America as dependant on foreign oil (Skeet, 1988). The move to raise oil prices and reduce supply by OPEC ensured a continued crisis in America. (Energy Information Administration, 2002). The crisis was not to end in 1973 and apparently America had not learned her lessons. Not more than a decade later a similar crisis happened. There were frustrated motorists with long queues all gunning for the same product. It dawned on policy makers and entire public that the infrastructure of a country was dependant on oil. In the case of America oil was imported thus making the situation worse. Alternative fuel had to be sought and the public was to conserve available resources. 4. Diesel Automobiles in America Diesel become the most economical and efficient option for the American public. There was more demand for automobiles powered by diesel (Lloyd & Cackette, 2001). These included 58% of Isuzu sales, 85% Peugeot’s sale, 50% Volkswagen and 70% sales by Mercedes Benz. At the end of 1970’s 60% of diesel automobiles sold in the United States were manufactured by General Motors. This trend continued till the 80’s when the oil prices stabilized and therefore most Americans did not see the need to conserve anymore. Similarly, General motors converted its automobiles into gasoline engines. In 1985 diesel automobiles were no longer produced by General Motors. Volkswagen and Mercedes Benz became the only diesel automobiles in the United States at the close of 20th Century. The latter recorded not more than 6% whereas the former only 5%. These were imports from other country but in America only trucks using diesel engines continued to be made. 1.3 Contemporary Diesel Engine Technology 1. New Improved Diesel Vehicles Mention a diesel powered vehicle and what comes in the mind of someone is smelly exhaust, slow performance of clanking engines (Parker, 2005). All these have become a thing of the past as there has been tremendous improvement in diesel vehicles. Important of all was the elimination of the rattle. It goes without mentioning efficiency of the engines has been greatly improved. Users of the diesel fuel are therefore guaranteed of fuel economy. Furthermore, devices to control emissions are also put in place. The engine has been managed and controlled in such a way that it is able to meet strict emission rules. As much as these technologies were meant to control emissions, effects exposed intolerance to sulfur (Moyce, 2000). Their lifetime is reduced greatly if subjected to diesel fuel with high content of sulfur. In order to effectively deal with the menace, use of ultra low sulfur diesel (USLD) is recommended. 2. EPA Emission Standards & Regulations According to regulations by the EPA, 15 parts-per-million (ppm) is the accepted on-highway diesel fuel sulfur content by weight, having reduced from 500 ppm (National Advisory Council fro Environmental Policy and Technology, 2007). It is also mandated by EPA to see on-road trucks strictly use ULSD. This has been seen to encourage the use, sale and development of vehicles using clean diesel. In 2004, diesel-powered passenger vehicles accounted for 3% of the market in the United States. Meanwhile, the number is expected to increase in the future with predictions standing at 11% in 2012. Again, 81,500 stationary diesel engines will be affected by the 2006 EPA rule. Emissions are expected to reduce gradually till 2015. The estimated cost for the entire duration is estimated at $ 57 million. Standards to emissions are not new in America. In 1979 proposal meant for stationary engines termed new source performance standards (NSPS) by EPA was not conclusive. It was a complicated process but mostly lacked regulations by the federal government. There were a number of systems including regulations by states and or local level. However, in the current situation the government cannot afford to take a back seat in the entire process. Environmental issues must be addressed seriously as matters affecting each and every citizen. Required standards must be met without compromise. 3. Models in the Market Leading the way in this revolution is Mercedes-Benz. So far the company has offered a number of models in the market. These models do not compromise on use, performance and cargo capacity despite fuel economy. The available models including luxury sedan that is diesel-powered can deliver up to 780 miles on a full tank. With more awareness campaigns and publicity of the models more Americans will be willing to purchase diesel engines. As a consequent more companies will be attracted to venture in the manufacturing. 2. Biodiesel Due to complaints and debates ranging in developed countries about environmental impact of diesel fuel, biodiesel has become highly favored. It is a non-toxic, biodegradable, clean-burning and carbon neutral biofuel produced from renewable resources such as unused vegetable oil, oil seed crop or used cooking oil (Bush, n.d.). The fuel can be easily produced at home, inexpensive and dramatically lowers pollution levels. In addition one does not need to modify vehicle engine in order to use biodiesel. It is an alternative fuel that is not only cost-effective but safe for the environment as well. In the world is it increasingly common to find diesel-powered vehicles. Environmental impacts of fossil fuels have pushed many countries to the use of biofuels (Kammen et al, 2008). However, United States still lags behind in the revolution. At the moment U.S. relies on Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz as the only choice of diesel automobiles. Though Chrysler and Ford make some diesel vehicles, these are medium and light trucks meant for the private consumer. 2.1 The Uses of Biodiesel The engines of majority trucks carrying consumer goods have capability to utilize biofuels. It is however problematic when one considers availability of biofuels. There need to be biodiesel pumps to guarantee existence of the fuel. Before this is realized already efforts to own storage tanks by individuals and trucking fleets are in place. These tanks have helped meet local usage and also short haul. Nonetheless, increased infrastructure must be put in place to cater for long haul trucks. 1. Vehicles and Machines In the meantime there are a number of large fleet which continues to utilize biodiesel to run vehicles and machines. On the list are private companies such as Thanksgiving Coffee and Phoenix Concrete, state fleets and the U.S Post Office. There are also agencies in the Government of United States using biodiesel in heavy equipment, utility vehicles, tanks, generators and boats (Bush, n.d.). Agencies that have embraced biodiesel include General Service Administration, Agricultural Research Services, the Army and Department of Forestry. On the same boat are construction companies which rely heavily on diesel driven equipment such as bulldozers, graders, diesel trucks, caterpillars, cranes, cement trucks, spreaders, backhoes, dump trucks and front loaders (Gerpen, 2004). 2. Agricultural Equipments Another key sector benefiting from biodiesel is agriculture. It is favored not only acting as a consumer of biodiesel but also as a producer of the same. A full cycle is guaranteed with the work of generators, irrigation systems, conveyors, tractors, pumps, tillers, reapers and pickers. Similarly, in mining industry biodiesel fuel is utilized to power generators used to fire up oil furnaces or power plants. There are also diesel trains. A good example is the Sierra Railroad that runs its trains using biodiesel. In addition the company has developed a project whereby consumers are provided with electricity generated by diesel engines of the locomotives. 3. Marine Equipments Marine application has been the most traditional use of biofuels. Despite the fact that submarines no longer utilize biofuels, the same does not apply to recreational yachts, ferries, motorboats, sailboats and many other commercial fleets. Unlike diesel, biodiesel is non-polluting and therefore utilization of biodiesel is recommended by some lakes. Pacific Whale Foundation, Splash Tours, Maui Scuba Tours have embraced the use of biodiesel on their boats and fleets (Frondel & Peters, n.d.). A trend is being set by these fleets thus requires others to follow. Only a matter of time and through awareness campaigns that others will realize the importance of biofuels. 4. Solvent Further, oil spills in the ocean can be easily cleaned up by use of biodiesel. The fact that biodiesel is biodegradable and non-toxic, aquatic life affected by spills can be cleaned up by using the oil. Similarly, removal of paint and sludge stuck on tanks due to use of diesel is assisted by biodiesel (Thevenot, 2006). This is so because biodiesel is a solvent. Moreover, it is a lubricant and works well with machines of all types. The lubricity of biodiesel ensures durability of large equipments. Considering continued spread of its use in the U.S economy, it can be guaranteed more gains will be made in future. One of the most important points to note is that engines that use diesel require only a slight modification or none at all to start to utilize biofuels. This is a positive aspect of the diesel engine. 3. Economic Impact 1. Individual Reach There are vast impacts of biodiesel in the economy. Production and usage of biodiesel is beneficial to the environment, health, agriculture, communities and individuals (Allen, 1998). As noted earlier much of the contribution of biodiesel in the economy is positive though there are a few negative aspects which are surmountable. At the moment biofuel industry is still local and regional and within the reach of individuals. Large scale production and control of the industry by corporations has not been realized. This does not mean corporations are reluctant to embrace biodiesel fuel. In the recent past trends by some of the huge corporations indicate interest to venture into alternative energy. British Petroleum has purchased Solarex, General Electric Astropower and Shell Oil Siemans Photovoltaic Division. It is a step towards the right direction. However, at this stage of growth, economic benefits for biodiesel industry go to working individuals, communities and regions. 2. Better Health For many decades fossil fuel has emitted toxic compounds and pollutants in the air. A continued emission of such compounds is a danger to health and well being of living and non living things. Biodiesel helps reduce or eliminate some of the pollutants currently emitted in the air. In so doing costs of health reduces as well. For instance statistics show more than $82 billion is spend annually on diseases caused by pollutants (Kinney et al, 2000). There are other indirect and or hidden costs such an upsurge in office visits, emergency rooms and hospital admissions. In goes without saying that indeed costs related to fossil fuels are more than one would ever imagine. Apart from higher costs one has to add indirect costs to arrive at the real cost on purchasing the product. 3. Safe Environment In addition biodiesel has a positive impact on the environment. Environmental benefits are also reflected in the economy. As global warming continues to get worse by the day, water is becoming scarce too (Ayres & Walter, 1991). Apart from scarcity the available fresh water meant for human consumption continues to be polluted. In fact all water bodies including oceans, streams, rivers and lakes are polluted with toxic wastes on a regular basis. Everyone is aware water is essential for survival on the planet. A limited supply of the commodity will eventually led to increase in value and thereby decrease in supply (Adams, Hamilton & McCarl, 1986). The good news is that use of biodiesel helps in a great way address the issue. Biodiesel fuel is biodegradable meaning it lacks toxic wastes thus reducing rate of pollution. Water bodies will remain free of toxic wastes. Once this is achieved the environment becomes safe and habitable. Clean water bodies ensure existence of aquatic life is safeguarded. There would be a continued presence of fishing industries, jobs for fishermen and food for the entire population. 4. Reduction of Pollution Similarly, the use of biodiesel mitigates the effects of pollution in the environment. Global warming has been discussed for a long time but realistic solutions are not agreed upon. An important step that many countries continue to elude is reduction or elimination of pollutants. Transportation industry only accounts for 30% of greenhouse gases. There are other industries such as electrical industry which rely on fossil fuels for power generation (Maples, 1993). Climatic changes in the world as a result of global warming can be blamed on emission of these gases. There are also catastrophes and problems related to weather such as erratic rains, tornados and floods that put a heavy burden on communities. A lot would therefore be achieved once the nation embraces biodiesel. 5. Reduce Sulfur Emission Sulfur emission in the atmosphere has resulted into acid rain leading to loss of crops (Adachi & Kobayashi, 1992). An estimation of the cost of acid rain stand at $2-3 million, just in the United States. Considering many economies heavy reliance on agriculture, it is a big blow. In fact if unmonitored a country’s food security will be threatened. As noted earlier biodiesel greatly reduces or emilinates sulfur content in the air. This further translates to reduction in loss of crops due to acid rain (Moyce, 2000). Though an attempt to do away with sulfur in fossil fuel was made in the 1990’s, slowly it was returned (Shiflett, 2001). It is alleged cost of engines breaking down and expenses incurred during removal ensured it remained. Just recently another attempt has been made by EPA to see to the removal of sulfur in fossil fuel (National Advisory Council for Environmental Policy and Technology, 2007). There is much to worry about more so on the health of communities. Our existence on the planet also means willingness to safeguard it for future generations. The results of this second attempt are yet to be known. 6. Agriculture Development Agriculture stands to gain if the production of biodiesel is increased. This will in turn benefit the local community. An estimated gross output into American economy in 2012 is $600 billion. Soybean farmers on the other hand are estimated to receive $12.6 net cash. Similarly, new jobs to be created in the year 2011 are estimated at 300,000. With the apparent expansion of the agricultural sector, the industry increases its economic base. Once fully embraced as an alternative energy, biodiesel will see to the cultivation of new crops (Sheenan, et al 1998). As a result the economy will benefit from creation of more jobs. Also, revenue will be reserved within regions and communities. Since the fuel is renewable, it will help in stabilizing prices. Moreover, emergence of new crops and recycling of vegetable fats and oils will see to a drop of commodity price. It is this kind of atmosphere that creates competition which will in turn see to reduction of prices. 7. Empowering Communities All major industries have a structure and biodiesel industry got two admirable strengths within its structure. The industry is controlled and sourced from local and regional level. Production materials are therefore easily derived from locals and the money ploughed back to communities (Kearn & McCormick, 2008). It comes as a breath of fresh air considering distributors and producers directly act to serve communities. Such a structure has never been witnessed before. For it enables communities to grow and develop using own resources. One of the most visible and urgent returns to the community is development of infrastructure to aid production process. Gone are the days when a country is characterized by regional imbalance. On the other hand fossil fuel has a structure to benefit only a few individuals. There are only a few corporations in the industry which have monopolized the production of fossil fuel. This occurred majorly due to merging of the key players thus seeing to elimination of competition. The mergers including: Chevron and Texaco, Exxon and Mobile, Phillips and Tasco, Ultramar and Valero, and finally, BP, Arco and Amoco control above 60% market share (Sampson, 1975). The common man or any other party intending to penetrate the market is not able to do so due to the dominance of these corporations. To add insult to injury the companies rarely bring back to the community even as they continue to degrade the environment. Most oil companies have taken corporate responsibility simply as a platform to advertise their products and lure customers to purchase certain brands. 3.1 National Security A country’s national security is important for economic growth. In the U.S. foreign oil dependency has become a norm. With an increase in demand of oil brings about dependence on other countries supplying oil (Rabe, 1982). Most of the countries including Middle Eastern countries, Venezuela and a number of African countries are immersed in political and economic quagmire (Klare & Volman, 2006). Over the years U.S. continued to show interest and exert its influence in the politics of these countries (Forest & Matthew, 2006). At the end of the day all efforts are geared towards safeguarding the needs of the American consumer (Randall, 1985). National security of the United States can only be restored once a change in lifestyle becomes top priority. As witnessed in the 70’s during the oil crisis citizens were able to conserve and utilize available resources. The same means and techniques are called for in this era where rising demand of oil far much exceeds supply (Klare, 2007). Biodiesel is the way to go for America. Already a number of government agencies including the military are utilizing biodiesel. The willingness to control consumption habits of oil will see to a better and prosperous nation. It has reached a point in time whereby disruption and interference of internal affairs of other countries is brought to an end. 4. Conclusion United States is disadvantaged on a global perspective when it comes to amount of oil consumption, production and reserves. A look at statistics on energy continues to shame the country. For instance in the world the U.S. reserves only 3% of oil but consumes 25% of the total oil production. Annually it consumes 231 gallons of crude oil and imports 60% of its petroleum. There is no possibility whatsoever to guarantee an improvement in the situation. Statistics show a continued increase in consumption whereas production takes a downward trend. The U.S. spends billions of money importing oil from other countries. As the domestic supply decreases the need to import more translates to foreign oil dependency. Oil crisis experienced in the last century seem not to have taught Americans any lessons. Crude oil importation costs the country $100 billion annually. The United States imports more than it produces thus emerged as the world number one borrower. This can not be allowed to continue when enormous resources lie unexploited in the country. United States need to embrace biodiesel. The impact of large scale production of biodiesel in the economy is vast. It would mean job creation in a number of sectors, growth in agricultural sector, better waste management and growth in the service industry. Important also is health and a better response to environmental issues. Biodiesel is clean energy and therefore less pollution is expected in the environment. Again, it will not be far from the vision of the inventor of diesel engine. 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