Assessment of the Influence of Torrefied Biomass Physical Characteristics, Design and Operating Variables on Gasification Efficiency

Abstract

Gasification efficiency is an important factor that determines the actual technical operation as well as the economic viability of using a gasifier system for energy production. In this study, the impact of the physical properties of torrefied bagasse and the influence of gasifier design and operating variables were investigated in a computer simulated downdraft gasification system. Results obtained from the study indicated an interrelationship between feedstock characteristics, especially with regard to feed size, design variables such as throat angle and throat diameter as well as gasifier operating conditions such as temperature of input air and feed input. These variables influenced the efficiency of the gasification process of sugarcane bagasse because of increased enhancement of combustion zone reactions, which liberated huge amount of heat that led to a rise in the temperature of the gasification process. This condition also created increased tar cracking within the gasification system, contributing to reduction in the overall yield of tar.