I'm looking to improve my washing method. Instead of doing a 3/27 test, I do a 6/27 or 9/27 test at 68 degrees and they always pass. I make sure there is no glycerin in the BD before beginning washing. I also try to have the WVO dry before processing to minimize soap.
The first wash is a mist wash: 90 gallons of BD at about 100 degrees F and add 40 to 50 gallons of water at 120 degrees. Wait 1 hour and drain. Second wash is 25 gallons of water with a Bete spray nozzle at half power. Wait 1 hour and drain. Third wash is 25 gallons of water with a Bete spray nozzle at full power. Wait 1 hour and drain. Sometimes the shake test passes and sometimes I have to wash 6 or 7 times.
I got the Bete nozzle idea from Legal Eagle (thank you). I've read that some people use bubble wash the second and third time. I've also read that some people have emulsion problems with bubble washing. One guy heats the BD to 120 to 140 degrees while washing to help the soap settle faster.

For all you experts and very experienced biodieselers, what is the consensus about what is the quickest, most thorough and most effecient washing method? I would like to be able to have a shake test pass after 3 washings.

I am wondering if steam distillation alone is sufficient as a post treatment for biodiesel. i read somewhere: biodiesel has a boiling point of around 150 deg C.