7.2.3.4 Pellet technology

Figure 7.9 E-pellets Length: 5-8 mm Diameter 5-10 mm 2 kg pellets replace 1 m3 natural gas

There are many reasons (such as humidity control) to homogenize the various bio-residues and bio-wastes before distribution and combustion. A higher density is particularly desirable. Bio-briquettes and bio-pellets are the commercial forms of such homogenized, compressed and compacted biomass. The main characteristics of the so-called E-pellet are given below figure 7.10.

 

Pellet technology is expensive, but cannot be avoided if such a great variety of burnable biomass is to be adequately managed (nature, characteristics and final use). Figure 7.11 [ref 7.5] shows a few stages in conveying biomass fuel to the end-user.

 

 

Fig 7.10 (a) Woody-biomass storage	Fig 7.10 (b) Pellet processing line
Fig 7.10 (c) Pellet loading	Fig 7.10 (d) Delivery of pellet fuel to the consumer