Here are some interesting facts regarding your car and cold temperatures: At what temperature does gasoline freeze? One article I came across suggested that gasoline could freeze at a range between -40C and -76C or any temperature less than -40 degrees fahrenheit. -40 degrees celsius = -40 degrees fahrenheit. You can prevent your gas line from
Driving Smart Decisions – October Update
What is New? The soil sample numbers are increasing on a daily basis. It appears that the majority of samples may be sent in later this month. The rain in the midwest areas is causing delays with harvest and sampling. Soil sample drying capacity has increased to 31,000+ this fall to help accommodate the increased number
Check us out in Ethanol Producer Magazine
Ethanol Producer Magazine sat down with Midwest Laboratories President Brent Pohlman, Account Manager Heather Ramig, and Team Leader of Alternative Fuel Lisa Avila. Their article, Pressure to Perform, written by Susanne Retka Schill, talked about ethanol testing and the pressures surrounding the results. “Most new trends in the ethanol industry come to roost in the
Driving Smart Decisions – September Update
New/Exciting Changes at MidwestLabs.com We updated our site! Why do you care? Well, we made sure to put your needs first. Updates have been made to the search functionality, navigation, and Industry section for tests. Find what you are looking for quicker and accessible. Not sure what you are looking for? Utilize our text, email,
Driving Smart Decisions – August Update
Welcome It’s an exciting time to be at and working with Midwest Laboratories as we continue to move forward with innovative processes and initiatives to serve our customer’s needs. The business landscape is continuing to move at a vigorous pace. We are a company who believes staying innovative and ahead of the curve is essential.
Driving Smart Decisions – July Update
Welcome The Fourth of July is typically the half-way mark for summer. A time of celebration and giving thanks for our freedoms as U.S. Citizens July Announcements Stay Tuned: This month we will have some new initiatives we will be rolling out for our clients. These items are in the final stages of testing and
Fuel and Ethanol Demand and Consumption
We recognize that global fuel and ethanol demand is growing. Linked is an informative article to the U.S. Energy Information Administration – EIA Beta site – Total Petroleum and Other Liquids Production chart from 2017. The chart covers the global production and consumption of fuels and biofuels. The Top Three The top three countries for
Driving Smart Decisions – May Update
Welcome May is here, and so are the warm temperatures. This spring we continue to see an increase in the number of new accounts and client inquiries. We have taken some steps this month to help facilitate this increase by offering clients the ability to communicate via text message. This new system is excellent for mobile
Driving Smart Decisions – March 2018
Welcome It is an exciting time of the year. We are coming out of winter and temperatures are starting to warm-up quickly. (See Graphic: Source greencastonline.com). Current Soil Temperatures in Omaha, 31 degrees F. for March 2, 2018. Many clients begin ordering their spring sampling supplies. Today, this process is a 4-step process with login on
MIDWEST LABORATORIES ANNOUNCES NEW OVERNIGHT SHIPPING PROGRAM
LaVista, NE – Midwest Laboratories announced during the 2018 Agronomy seminar, beginning March 1, 2018, they are launching a new FedEx Overnight Shipping Solution, exclusive for Midwest Laboratories clients. In order to get the data their clients need to make critical business decisions; Midwest Laboratories will now offer $20 overnight flat rate freight for packages
Driving Smart Decisions – February 2018
Welcome One month is in the books for 2018. I look forward to the Super Bowl every year as it showcases the best teams in the NFL. It is a big event, and the buildup to the game always amazes me. An exciting time of the year. This past month it has been fascinating to
Driving Smart Decisions – January 2018
Welcome to 2018 At Midwest Laboratories, we are anticipating another exciting year of analysis. In 2017, we updated many laboratory instruments and that investment paid off nicely with the receipt of large volumes of samples in various departments. One of our goals is to identify specific analysis areas that can be updated through technology and
September Update 2017
Fall Is Around the Corner Labor Day Weekend is almost here. Schools are back in session. Temperatures are starting to cool off and the days are getting shorter. That means football activities are right around the corner too. Right now we are seeing an increased demand for stalk nitrate testing. In addition, many growers and
August Update 2017
August Newsletter For many, August 21, 2017, cannot get here soon enough. Solar Eclipse 2017 is almost upon us. Many in the science community are preparing to observe this once in a lifetime event. Fall Sampling Supplies Make sure you get your sampling supplies ordered. This past week, I took a closer look at supplies
June Update 2017
The temperatures are quite comfortable as we start the month of June, but very soon we will be moving quickly toward hotter and more humid conditions in the Midwest region. This type of weather is terrific for plants as they begin to grow. May was a wet month, so it will be interesting to see what
Mid-May Update
Soil and Plant Update The spring soil testing season continues to be strong. We are seeing a strong surge of soil samples which is a little unusual for this time of the year, but it really does show that growers and retailers are continually monitoring fields to ensure proper soil nutrients are available for proper
May Update 2017
Welcome to May This month, we celebrate 42 years of service. Our campus continues to change with the spring as we look to stay connected on our 10-building campus. May is typically the time of year for school graduations and the end of academic year activities. We are proud to have our own, original owner,
April Update 2017
Introduction Welcome to April. The recent rainfall will soon have grass, trees and plants budding. The recent warm winter has accelerated these activities along with the current soil temperatures, (See Map) which are quite warm for this time of year. From an analysis perspective, the lab areas at Midwest Laboratories are always evaluating current instrumentation
March 2017 update
Spring is almost here. This past month we’ve had a slight taste of spring/summer with temperatures in the 60’s and 70’s. It has made for an exciting February. Soil sample volumes are up with the warmer temperatures. The Animal Feed Laboratory is almost completed. Once complete, the Animal Feed Laboratory will have its own receiving,
February 2017 Update
In January we unveiled a whole new website look. It is our goal going forward to continue to provide visitors with as much analysis information we can provide on analysis, method, turnaround time and cost. If you are looking for a particular analysis, consider going to our test section and locating your specific analysis. Taking
New Website Update for 2017
Welcome to the new, midwestlabs.com site! This process started in May 2016 and came to fruition in January 2017. This site is the cornerstone of a new client experience. The new site will allow users the ability to find analysis information faster, with fewer clicks. One of the best parts of the site is the
Sulfur for Tier III Analysis Program
SULFUR FOR TIER III ANALYSIS Midwest Laboratories Inc | Reference Method ASTM D 5453 Description of Program Midwest Laboratories uses ASTM D 5453 – Sulfur analysis as the reference method for Sulfur TIER III Analysis and have carried out the required quality validation. Supporting clients is our biggest focus, and through this process, we have
Fire Warning – Linseed Oil
Have you thought about restoring the woodwork on your deck? If you are thinking about this process, you need to watch the following news story. It really highlights the danger of hot temperatures and flammability. In addition, the video really shows that cloths coated in oils can easily catch on fire because of hot temperatures.
Your FSMA Partner
For the past year, I have been reading more and more about the FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) and all of the changes that will be affecting food growers, producers, and retailers. Three key components: Hazard Analysis Preventive Controls Produce Safety Midwest Laboratories has invested in new instrumentation, new facilities, and method development to meet
Fuel Ethanol Lab Conference 2015
This week I have been attending the Fuel Ethanol Lab Conference hosted by Midland Scientific. It has been interesting to listen to lab managers and supporting vendors talk about the current state of ethanol being produced in the United States. It comes down to producing a quality product: Ethanol. There are many challenges from a
Ethanol Demand – An Interesting Perspective
Check out this interview with Green Plains CEO, Todd Becker and seen where the Ethanol Industry stands with respect to the economy. This story is really interesting. Todd does a good job of looking at Ethanol as a sustainable business. Overall, Ethanol is a discounted fuel compared to traditional gasoline. The international market is becoming
Fracking Wastewater
Here is a video clip of why people are concerned about what is in their water supply. Fracking wastewater needs to be analyzed and tested to determine if any contaminants exist. Check out this story, During Fracking Hearing, Nebraskan Challenges Oil And Gas Commission To Drink Wastewater, March 30 ,2015 and accompanying presentation. It is
Microbial Fuel Cells
Generating electricity through bacteria in waste water. Check out this explanation from Penn State – Microbial Fuel Cell Page Renewable and clean forms of energy are one of society’s greatest needs. At the same time, 2 billion people in the world lack adequate sanitation and the economic means to afford it. In this research, we
Why are gas prices going down?
What factors are contributing to the lower prices in October – November 2014?
I Have a Question About Testing Where Do I Go
Ever had a laboratory testing question, but could not find the answer? Consider sending your testing question to Midwest Labs
FEW Ethanol 2014
Each year a representative from Midwest Laboratories attends the FEW – International Fuel Ethanol Workshop. Sessions started Monday, June 9, 2014 with a look at advanced techonogies in corn production. The dialogue was very interesting and the need to stay current on new technologies was reinforced. Speakers were talking about the advanced features of drones,
Fracking and Increased Eathquakes?
Check out this interesting read on fracking being a direct relationship to earchquakes, (Fracking boom could increase California’s earthquake risk) I believe more research is needed to determine if there is a relationship with fracking and earthquakes. Now, read this aricle Man-Made Earthquakes Update from the USGS that refutes this claim. Th USGS answers this
Shipping and Receiving Samples
This time of year can be very frustrating with respect to delays in shipping. Many people are extremely unhappy because their orders are not being received in time for Christmas. In addition, may people ship packages to friends and family and they await anxiously for their packages to arrive. Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world
Biofuel Production Explained for the Classroom.
Check out this video which really gives a gret perspective of what biofuels are and how biofuels are produced. Lots of great information about the current state of biofuels, the challenges that biofuels face and some ways that biofuels are being produced using cellulosic materials and algae. If you are a school teacher who talks
Analysis Planning for 2014
This time of year the client services staff receives many inquiries through phone calls and the company website. It is a great time to call-in and have questions answered with respect to analysis capabilities and pricing information for budget planning purposes. This information is also very helpful to our Midwest Laboratories staff. Each year we
Clean Energy | UPS
Clean Energy Fuels Corporation and UPS completed a deal on November 13, 2013 to supply liquefied natural gas (LNG) to two private UPS stations in Mesquite and Houston, Texas. “UPS has staked a leadership role by transitioning their fleet to cleaner-burning natural gas,” said James Harger, chief marketing officer for Clean Energy. “Opening the Texas
Falling Gasoline Prices
Lower demand and higher supplies are pushing oil prices lower. I noticed in the Omaha area, gas prices were as low as $2.87 per gallon. How far will prices fall? Is an expected increase on the horizon? photo credit: Nicholas_T via photopin cc
Know the facts about ethanol for your car and small engine equipment
This past month, I conducted a few tests of gasoline from different pumps and came across some surpristing information. Lately, the talk has been that there is too much ethanol in our fuel. Will E-15 hurt my automobile’s engine? Why is ethanol being used to blend gasoline to get an octane reading of 87. I
Ethanol | Gas | Small Engines
In the midwest most of the unleaded gasoline is being blended with ethanol to bring the octane levels up to 87. This has people a bit concerned, especially wiht their small engine devices like lawn mowers and snow blowers. Check out this news story! Understand how these changes could impact you. The news story makes
Change in Octane – What is going on?
Pump labels in Nebraska and other Midwestern states are changing and the Octane levels are going down. There is a very interesting article in Ethanol Producer. Check it out. It will have an impact on our vehicles. photo credit: brutalSoCal via photopin
Ethanol Production Looks Optimistic
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (ADM), the world’s largest corn processor, sees ethanol demand rising and is “optimistic” about margins for 2014 and 2015 as the coming U.S. harvest increases supplies. Source Bloomberg.com This news is welcome news to the Ethanol Industry, especially after last years harsh drought. Corn futures in Chicago have dropped 43 percent from a
Comments From FEW Ethanol 2013
Here are a few observations I made from this week’s Ethanol Conference. This conference has some of the top people in the Ethanol Industry from Owners and Producers to Suppliers and Advocates. The right people are here. The attendees are very passionate about their processes, making a profit, keeping up with new technology and informed
How often should I have an oil change
If you are like myself, you have one of those oil change reminder labels that lets us know when we should expect to have our oil changed. Typical time is 3,000 miles. If you are like me, it seems that sometimes this time frame can go by very fast and as a result it could
Diesel, Ethanol Gasoline Contamination
The Fuel Fingerprint Test is a very popular test for a few reasons. It serves as an initial scan to determine if the appropriate fuel contains contaminants. The analysis has a normal two-day turnaround time. Rush analysis is also available with proper communication and coordination ahead of time. The report includes analysis, recommendations and copies
Ethanol Excellence
Check out this video and learn how the ethanol industry is becoming more efficient in the production of ethanol. It appears that ethanol production is growing in 2013, despite some news reports. I can only base my information on the number of ethanol samples we are receiving at Midwest Laboratories. Hopefully, the trend
Metals Laboratory | Midwest Laboratories
Learn more about the role the Metals Laboratory plays at Midwest Laboratories. Led by Barry Blessing and his team, the Midwest Laboratories Metals Lab analyzes a variety of samples for their elemental composition. Check out a quick video and learn more. The Midwest Laboratories Metals Laboratory serves clients across the country. Turnaround time and high quality
Waste Vegetable Oil Production
See how one man has developed a recipe for his own vehicle. This is a very cool story of chemistry and fuel production coming together. At Midwest Laboratories, we analyze Waste Vegetable Oils from different production facilities across the United States. photo credit: Microcosm Publishing! via photopin cc
Post Hurricane Sandy – Long Waits
I was listening to a New York Radio station this morning and its unbelievable to hear about the long lines for gas and transportation. A number of people are trying to keep their cars and generators going during this difficult time. Check out more in this story and keep these people in your prayers this
Rush Samples
Around the holidays, clients consistently need rush analysis. Today, I received a call from a client who needs analysis records for an important business transaction tomorrow. At Midwest Laboratories, these type of requests are pretty regular. It is for this reason that our company does not take an extended vacation time. Companies rely on the
Ethanol Lab Managers
Welcome Ethanol Lab Managers to the 2011 Fuel Ethanol Laboratory Conference, sponsored by Midland Scientific. It is great to see lab managers from different Ethanol Producers come to Omaha to discuss ways to keep the quality of ethanol high and continue to market renewable fuels to a country in need of independence from oil. The
Some Answers to Treating Diesel Fuel
We receive a lot of questions regarding diesel fuel and bacteria and quality. Currently, for contamination, Midwest Laboratories offers a Fuel Fingerprint analysis, $90.00 which looks at 22 different diesel contaminants and compares the diesel sample to a matrix of different contaminants to look for the presence of these contaminants in the diesel sample. In
Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles
CNG This type of vehicle is becoming very popular in the Omaha-metro area. Yesterday, I heard that a company was going to purchase three vehicles for local deliveries in the Omaha Area. The price of natural gas is a fraction of the cost of today’ petroleum costs. According to the Metropolitan Utilities District website livegreenthinkblue.com
Food and Fuel Debate
Food and Fuel are final products in the Ethanol Process I think it’s always good to have some numbers to look at when looking at this debate. Check out the numbers that were highlighted in this video. One bushel of grain produces 2.8 gallons of ethanol – using starch and 18 pounds of livestock feed
Ethanol Lab Conference
Ethanol Conference This conference is going strong and really focuses attention on the laboratory testing aspect of Ethanol Production. It’s a great conference that has really grown in numbers over the last three years. Lots of new items to discuss. Recent discussion has occurred on the roll-out of E-15. Lots of great speakers have been
Nebraska Petroleum Marketers Association 2010 Expo
I am attending the Nebraska Petroleum Marketers Association Conference in La Vista, NE. Today is the last day of the conference. The conference appears to be growing again with excitement and this is evidenced by the larger number of vendors and attendees. Yesterday, the speakers ranged from Ndamukong Suh – talking about his football career
