What information do we require?
Characteristics
A detailed specification is required to ensure optimal utilisation of biomass.
Any type of biofuel has unique characteristics. Detailed knowledge of these characteristics is required to design an energy plant for optimal utilisation of the fuel.
Preliminary evaluation
For a preliminary evaluation of a bio-fuel, the following information is required:
- Physical: Type (species of plant)
- Structural: Bales, particles, etc.
- Chemical: Content of moisture, ash, volatile matter, solid carbon, heat value
Detailed evaluation
For a detailed calculation of a boiler plant, the following information is required:
- Physical: Type, structure, screen analysis (particles), density
- Chemical: Content of carbon, sulphur, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, chlorine, water, ash
Depending on the circumstances, a detailed ash analysis with a view to determining and eliminating the risk of problems with slag or with heavy metal pollution may be necessary.
