Biomass fuels have become increasingly popular as a renewable energy source, with many countries looking to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. However, the quality of biomass fuels can be affected by several factors, including moisture content. It is a critical factor in selecting the fuel for your system. Since biomass is a natural product, it may contain 5-60% moisture by weight. In this article, we will discuss how water affects biomass fuel quality.
Role of moisture in determining fuel quality
Moisture content is one of the most critical factors, as it affects the combustion properties of the fuel. It affects biomass fuel quality in several ways
- Firstly, water reduces the calorific value of the fuel, as water has no calories. The higher the water content of the fuel, the lower the calorific value, as the energy released during combustion is used to evaporate the water in the fuel.
- Secondly, water affects the efficiency of the fuel. When biomass fuel burns, it is essential to ensure complete combustion. However, if the fuel has a high water content, the water in the fuel will absorb heat and reduce the combustion temperature.
- Thirdly, moisture can also affect the storage and handling of biomass fuels. Thus, when biomass fuels are store, they can absorb moisture from the surrounding environment, hence, reducing its quality.
- Fourthly, fuel with high water content has high transportation costs. Since modern transportation relies heavily on fossils, thus contributing to greenhouse emissions.
So, to ensure high-quality biomass fuel, it is essential to maintain a low moisture content. The optimal moisture content varies depending on the type of biomass fuel and the intended use. Usually, a water content of less than 20% is recommended. Therefore, Steamax developed biomass fuel “Astillas”.
Steamax biomass fuel “Astillas”
- Astillas have better combustion characteristics, high calorific value(>4200 Kcal/kg) and low moisture content(<10%).
- Astillas burn clean and entirely without leaving any black or acidic smoke traces.
- It is manufactured from industrial waste, so the fuel availability and properties don’t change with the season.
- The fuel is manufactured using low-cost local biomass sources and is compatible with most boilers, heaters, and burners.
Thus, high moisture content reduces the calorific fuel value and combustion efficiency and can lead to storage and handling issues. To ensure high-quality biomass fuel, it is vital to maintain a low moisture content through proper storage and handling practices. Therefore, Steamax’s Astillas fits in all the above spheres. Want to know more about Astillas, then click here to CONTACT US.