Numerical analysis of heat exchange process in the biomass carbonisation reactor

Abstract

The study presents the problem of heat exchange in the biomass carbonisation reactor with cyclic operation. Based on the actual parameter of the biomass carbonisation reactor, a geometrical model was developed, and the computation of the heating process was conducted for two cases: an empty reactor and a filled reactor. Its result demonstrated that for the analysed configuration of the reactor, the process of heating biomass in the containers is limited by the capability of heat transfer to the biomass in the container. The results suggest opportunities for the improved heat exchange in the reactor and, accordingly, shortening heating time through installation of the system that forces circulation of hot air inside the reactor.