Paper details

Title:

Small-Scale Bio-CHP Technology - Relevant Practical Factors as Design Basis and a Case for Developing a Test Facility

Author(s):

Rousku, P., Kaikko, J., Kokkonen, K., Lehtovaara, M., Vakkilainen, E.

Document(s):

Abstract:

Small­scale combined heat and power (CHP) generation is developing, especially for wood fuels. Many technological options are needed in the market. The purpose of this paper is to address important practical pre­conditions for the design of a small­scale bio­CHP plant. Also, the objective is to show the benefit for the plant manufacturers to build up co­operation networks to achieve the latest technological performance and highest economy. This networking applies as well with the energy entrepreneurs operating the plants. As an example, a test facility was developed to promote the externally­fired microturbine (EFMT) technology and collaboration between the parties. The aim of this research is to demonstrate the importance of controlling the whole production chain to optimize its operation quality. By developing the technology, services and their quality it is easier for this technology to penetrate in the market. This paper identifies relevant practical factors when optimizing small­scale heat­only and CHP operation. To learn from field experience, heating plant manufacturers and heating entrepreneurs were interviewed. Also, heating plant operation statistics were used. Thus, factors for functionality and productivity of small boiler plants were recognized. Utilizing the received information, different production scenarios were calculated. The fuel quality control, boiler adjustability and its correct sizing indicated important. Small­scale plants have to adapt to wide periodical changes in heat demand. Hence, the adjustability of boilers is important, differing significantly from large boilers. For small boilers, this causes great differences in their annual operating times. The developed test facility consists of a 300 kW wood chip furnace, a 40 kW EFMT with heat exchangers and a 200 kW water boiler. The microturbine is based on turbocharger technology with limited pressure ratio and turbine inlet temperature, causing low electric efficiency and power­to­heat ratio. However, economic feasibility is anticipated due to low cost structure.

Keywords:

combined heat and power generation (CHP), decentralised generation, microturbine, small scale application, decentralized generation, wood chips

Topic:

Biomass Conversion Technologies for Heating, Electricity and Chemicals                  

Subtopic:

Fuel and system characterisation

Event:

19th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition

Session:

OA7.5

Pages:

967 - 973

ISBN-13:

978-88-89407-55-4

ISBN-10:

88-89407-55-7

Paper DOI:

10.5071/19thEUBCE2011-OA7.5

Price:

FREE