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Stalks: Another Biomass Available for Energy Generation

Using stalks as fuel in boilers poses different challenges compared to burning fiber and husks. Stalk fibers typically have a moisture content close to 50% (once squeezed and chopped), compared to 38% for mesocarp fiber. Additionally, stalk ash contains high levels of sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and chlorine, which produce alkaline gases causing oxidation upon contact with steel at temperatures exceeding 450°C. This phenomenon can occur in superheaters and other parts designed to operate within that temperature range. Moreover, stalk ash is more abrasive, posing risks of premature wear.

At VR Engineering, we have addressed the inherent problems of using this fuel and offer a 100% safe, reliable, and effective solution for industries considering the viability of using stalks for thermal and electrical energy generation in their boilers.

Raquis Otra biomasa

We design boilers for stalk combustion with combustion air preheaters so that excess water evaporation occurs rapidly, allowing the fuel to distill its volatiles without any intervention.

The design ensures that no part of the furnace or superheater exceeds temperatures that could cause alkaline oxidation. Similarly, gas velocities in all parts of the boiler have been adjusted to avoid erosion. Designs have been modeled using advanced computational techniques that allow us to predict the operating conditions of critical parts affected by fuel characteristics.

Boilers for operation
with fiber, husks, and stalks

Our products incorporate the latest technological developments, custom-designed according to the needs of our clients, allowing them to optimize their production processes for energy utilization.

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