Method for Determining the Efficiency of Generation of a Genset Coupled to a Biomass Gasification Process

Abstract

This research is based on obtaining a mathematical model to determine the efficiency of generating a generator coupled to a biomass gasification process. To do this, it is initially simulated internal combustion engine at the Aspen hysys® licensed software, in order to obtain the shaft work and a representative model of the generation efficiency of the motor; according to the characteristics of the power cycle and product gas from the gasification of agricultural biomass prevailing in the Department of Córdoba – Colombia: Cotton waste (Gossypium hirsutum), Rice husk (Oryza sativa), Sesame stalk (Sesamum indicum), Corn cob (Zea mays) and Coconut fiber (Cocos nucifera). Subsequently, the generator efficiency is evaluated by the electric power generation simulation phase in the Simulink Toolbox of the MATLAB® software. The deterministic mathematical models resulting from the simulations above are adjusted by statistical techniques to experimental data and a regression model that assesses the overall system efficiency is obtained. Such efficiencies range from 16 to 20%. Therefore it is concluded that the use of representative crops biomass product’s calorific values in the Department of Córdoba -Colombia, are profitable for electric power generation. On the other hand, it is important to note that experimental data’s reliable and monitored way acquisition was performed through the SCADA developing; it allowed real time process variables’ intervention presentation.