Manufacturing Today Issue - 225 June 2024 | Page 130

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mixture , which is then transferred to one of our four fermentation tanks . Within these tanks , biological fermentation takes place , converting the starches into sugars and subsequently into alcohol . As the yeast begins to ferment , the reaction produces heat , CO 2
, and alcohol . After approximately 60 hours , the mixture transforms into beer , containing around 15 percent alcohol .
“ The beer is then pumped from the fermentation tanks into a three-column distillation process , encompassing the beer column , rectifier , and side stripper , separating the alcohol from the water and solids . The resulting product is further heated and sent through molecular sieves to remove any remaining water , yielding our final 200-proof alcohol product . Upon receiving certification from our lab , the 200-proof alcohol is blended with a denaturant and stored ahead of shipment ,” Jodi informs .
This meticulous process has enabled the creation of RTE ’ s top-quality products for many years , leading the company to secure diverse projects . “ Besides our innovative carbon capture and storage ( CCS ) project and becoming the first ethanol plant to participate in the voluntary carbon market , RTE is planning to begin selling cellulosic ethanol this year . In 2023 , we introduced a trial and certification process for corn kernel fiber ( CKF ) enzymes . Cellulosic feedstocks , such as CKF , are derived from non-food-based materials and composed of cellulose , hemicellulose , and lignin . These abundant feedstocks are essential to the production of biofuels . Notably , cellulosic ethanol stands out for its sustainability as it utilizes non-food feedstocks and possesses a low carbon footprint .”
Recognized for its economic and environmental impact in North Dakota , RTE places great emphasis on supporting its

KEEPING YOU SPINNING Franzenburg is a 65,000 + sq ft centrifuge and gearbox company located in Des Moines , IA .

We currently repair 35-40 centrifuges every month , with some of the quickest turnaround times in the industry .
GET IN TOUCH Weston Conner ( President ): 641-891-0042 Tyler Burns ( Vice-President ): 515-721-2149
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