Cost-effective solutions for storing, mixing, and equalizing biomass
Cost-effective production of energy biomass is very much dependent on efficient handling of available biomass sources, as well as the efficiency of each process. To ensure good inventory control and proper mixing and moisture equalization of biomass materials, the biomass must be properly stored and reclaimed for combustion in the renewable energy plant or for further downstream processing.
Proper storage not only provides a work-in-process inventory buffer to enable continuous production, but also includes capabilities for blending different types of biomass into a homogenous mix and/or equalizing the moisture content in the material. That is why the storage volume needs to be large enough to allow for blending and homogenization. The discharge equipment from the storage unit should continue the process of mixing and blending for biomass being fed to a boiler, gasifier, or another downstream process.
Complete systems or specific equipment – ANDRITZ has the solution
ANDRITZ offers complete solutions for storing, mixing, and equalizing biomass for energy production. The scope of supply can vary from complete plants to individual equipment delivery. ANDRITZ is very experienced in project management, ensuring deliveries that are on-time and on-budget, and produce excellent economic results for energy producers.
Biomass storage systems
ANDRITZ supplies equipment and systems for storing biomass ranging from small, semi-automated systems to large, fully-automated systems with 3D volume measurement. These systems are available in open or closed (covered) configurations.
Linear storage
Linear storage for biomass is normally closed/covered to minimize the effects of additional moisture on the biomass during storage. A shuttle belt conveyor stacks the linear pile and moves back and forth above the pile to distribute biomass evenly. The material is reclaimed via screw reclaimers under the biomass pile. The reclaimers, which can be cantilevered or supported at both ends, have variable speed drives to easily adjust to throughput requirements.
Round storage
Round storage for biomass is a closed/covered silo with a screw reclaimer or HELP discharger under the silo discharging the biomass to the center of the silo. The silo can be constructed of steel or concrete, with or without insulation. This type of storage equalizes the moisture of the biomass very well. Screw reclaimers can be cantilevered or supported at both ends, depending on the diameter of the silo and the biomass material.
Circular storage
An ANDRITZ circular stacker-reclaimer provides a cost-effective method of automated storage pile building and reclaiming for most biomass materials. The equipment, including conveyors, is installed above ground so that civil construction is minimized. The circular stacker-reclaimer delivers 100% live storage volume such that all the material stacked is accessible by the reclaimer, requiring no additional equipment or labor. As an option, it can be equipped with luffing so that dust emissions are minimized. The chain reclaimer operates over the pile and blends the biomass being conveyed to the boiler or gasifier. When closed storage is required, the circular stacker-reclaimer can be covered by a dome.
