Biomass Pellet

Biomass is a collective term for all cellulose organic material which can be used as a potential fuel source. Common basic interpretations of biomass are logs burning on a fire, however this form of biomass combustion is neither efficient or practical as most of the heat is not captured for the intended purpose whether it is heating or cooking. Wood is only one form of biomass, grasses and straws and other forms of energy crops are also referred to as biomass. One of the main issues with biomass is how to use it. In its raw form biomass is very bulky, and has a low energy content along with a high moisture content. Therefore burning the material efficiently in its raw form is very difficult. Its very manually intensive and transporting the fuel due to its low density even over short distances causes issues. There are several options to upgrade biomass into either a gas, liquid or solid. Though converting biomass into a gas or a liquid have their uses, the processes are not always practical for the small end user, and in many cases transporting the biomass to these processing plants in its raw form is still an issue. Therefore one of the most practical methods to deal with biomass is to upgrade to pellets.

Pellets are simply a compressed form of the original raw material. A few of the specific advantages of pellets over the raw material are as follows. Pellets flow like a liquid, therefore can be used in automated systems such as pellet stoves and boilers. The pressure at which the pellets are formed means an increased energy density. This means a more efficient complete burn can be achieved, meaning more heat is generated and fuel consumption is greatly improved. During the pellet production process, most of the moisture is also removed, which again makes a significant difference to combustion efficiency.

Biomass Burner and Biomass Boilers

To make biomass work within the modern lifestyle, biomass pellets and pellet stoves and boilers can bring a solid fuel into the 21st century. These biomass burners can automatically feed and start the fire on demand. Controlled through a standard wall thermostat, pellet stoves and boilers only require minimal maintenance. Using this form of heating can reduce carbon emissions, support the local economy and also reduce dependence on foreign fossil fuels.

Biomass Energy and Climate Change

The reason biomass energy can reduce climate change is because biomass is already part of the natural carbon cycle. Therefore when biomass is burnt, the carbon dioxide generated is absorbed by the new biomass growth. This means the cycle is effectively neutral, unlike fossil fuels which increase carbon.

Biomass Waste and Wood Fuel Pellets

The Wood Pellet Production Guide © PelHeat Ltd - Biomass Pellet