I'm grinning like a Cheshire cat at the moment because I have graduated from a 2 litre batch to my first 50 litre effort without any insurmountable dramas.
My plant is a bit primitive at the moment but will improve as I become a bit more savvy.
It consists of two 45 kilogram gas cylinders and the reactor is fitted with a 2400 watt heating element and a digital temperature readout controller and sensor which is really great. The only problem is that I installed the element 300ml from the bottom of the cylinder and I have to agitate the contents to get the oil in the bottom warm. I am thinking of installing an auger to overcome the the heating problem and it should act well for agitation.
I am now doing my fifth and hopefully last wash but the end product is looking really great.
Could anyone give me advice on the following please?

1. I used seven grams of caustic a litre and I tried to dissolve it in about two litres of methanol but it finished up taking in excess of three hours even with constant shaking and more constant swearing.
2. At what point can I dispense with the goggles, mask, gloves and garters etc. I presume it is after the nasties have been added to the reactor and agitation has commenced.
3. I am using a twin filter respirator with these marks. A Aus P2 Gas and Particulate Filter P/N 455483 I think I am on the right track but would appreciate confirmation or otherwise.
4. I was concerned that I appeared to have a soapy film floating on top of the oil in the washing process but it gradually disappeared after constant bubbling. Is this normal?
5. Although I added ten litres of methanol I only recovered about eight litres of glycerins and this concerned me but I am fairly certain that if there was any goo left in the product it was discharged in the first two washes. Is this a sign that I did not get good separation and will it improve with better agitation?
6. Can anyone advise me of uses for the Glycerins. I have been told it is a good hand wash and that it can be useful as a car wash. No doubt others have pondered its use and have come up with good ideas.

I thought I might let the brew settle for a few weeks before I start using it in my vehicle and no doubt I will be seeking the benefit of others experience when I go down that path.
My sincere appreciation is extended to all the good people who have contributed to this and other forums and in doing so have helped to make the whole exercise rewarding and user friendly.
Thanks.
Drover