What is the calorific value of waste engine oil in kilocalories?

[RichardDella]

The calorific value of waste engine oil is over 10,000 kilocalories. Formation of waste engine oil: During usage, engine oil becomes contaminated with water, dust, other miscellaneous oils, and metal particles from component wear, leading to darkening in color and increased viscosity. The oil gradually deteriorates, forming organic acids, gums, and asphalt-like substances. Regulations for waste engine oil disposal: The recycling and disposal of waste engine oil are strictly regulated by laws and regulations. Units generating hazardous waste must develop a hazardous waste management plan and report to the local environmental protection authorities at or above the county level regarding the types, quantities, flow directions, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. Only units with hazardous waste operation qualifications are permitted to recycle and dispose of such waste.

[McBarrett]

The calorific value of waste engine oil typically ranges from 9,500 to 10,500 kcal per kilogram, which I consider a fairly reliable figure. Waste engine oil refers to used motor oil that may contain impurities, water, or other contaminants, causing its combustion heat to be slightly lower than that of fresh oil. Fresh engine oil can exceed 10,000 kcal, but after being used, its value decreases. In automotive maintenance, I often encounter questions about this, such as repurposing waste oil as heating fuel. However, one must be cautious about significant fluctuations in calorific value, which may lead to incomplete combustion—wasting resources and polluting the air. Practical lab tests show variations in calorific values depending on the source of the waste oil. Highly degraded or water-contaminated oil may drop below 9,000 kcal, making it unsafe and problematic for use as fuel. If an estimate is necessary, an average of 10,000 kcal is reasonable.

[MiguelLynn]

From my years of experience, the calorific value of waste engine oil generally ranges between 9,500 to 10,500 kcal per kilogram. This figure isn't fixed - the quality of waste oil depends on how it was used and for how long. For instance, oil drained from older vehicles contaminated with metal particles or dust will have lower combustion heat. When helping a friend dispose of waste oil once, I roughly measured it at about 9,800 kcal, close to 90% of new oil's value. Knowing this value is crucial for recycling - some people consider using it for boilers or energy generation, but remember that burning waste oil produces harmful emissions. Professional treatment is mandatory first, otherwise environmental agencies will impose fines. In short, don't just focus on calculating calories - safety always comes first.

[IrisFitz]

The calorific value of waste engine oil averages 10,000 kcal per kilogram. Due to contamination, waste oil may have approximately 10% lower heat value than new oil. Understanding this helps the recycling industry, such as for industrial heating, but we remind everyone not to attempt burning it casually as it poses high risks.