Most biomass boilers run on biomass fuel such as wood chips, wood pellets, logs or briquettes. The efficiency of these boilers is at its peak when the appropriate wood fuel is used, that is also those that align with the manufacturers’ guidelines.
However, when it comes to deciding upon the most suitable type of wood fuel for your biomass system, this decision should take place early on in the project. That way, you can avoid any issues that may arise later on.
Deciding on what is needed can help you arrive at appropriate storage requirements as different wood fuels need special kinds of storage solutions.
That said, JL Phillips has come up with this informative guide to help you decide the very best storage solutions for your biomass wood fuel.
Let’s dive right in!
Storage Options for Wood Pellets and Chips
The following storage options are a great solution for both wood pellets and chips, in case you need to make your storage suitable for both kinds of biomass wood fuel.
In simple terms, this can cover the possibility of needing new fuel in the future.
1. Integrated Internal Stores
Integrated internal stores are often the easiest solution when the space is available internally or can be constructed. The construction of these stores is ideally inside or in the periphery of the boiler plant room for convenience and efficiency.
This is because a block-built room, next to the boiler room from which the fuel feed system transports chips or pellets, is only a short distance away from the boiler; hence internal stores provide an easier solution.
Now for the delivery of the fuel, it can happen in numerous ways, with vehicle access restrictions being the focus, of course.
Side Notes:
If you are creating storage for wood chips, a square floor space is ideal to accommodate the installation of a circular agitator.
In case of storage for wooden pellets, a rectangle or ‘V’-profile is advisable, an angled floor is more effective.
2. Subterranean Stores
Subterranean stores are suitable for sites with limited space that require quick fuel delivery. An underground or sunken fuel store is suitable for both chips and pellets; it is a space-saving solution that delivery vehicles can transport to whenever and wherever it is required. That is why ensuring that there is enough headroom for the truck is extremely essential.
Other than that, with this type of store comes the lid. Make sure to go over the options carefully before installing; sliding or lifting the lid and manual or hydraulic operations are some of the options to consider.
Pellet-Only Storage
Wood pellets are a reasonably conforming material, something that allows the fuel to enter the fuel feed system simply using gravity.
This property, therefore, makes pellet-only storage a cheaper option if suitable for your requirements.
1. Internal Flexible Bag Stores
Internal flexible bag stores are advised to be installed either in an adjacent room or are divided by a wall inside the plant room itself. This accounts as a benefit if there is the likelihood of the need to move the silo or the entire biomass system in the future.
Flexible bag stores are made of flexible material, inclusive of a metal frame with connection parts. These stores are cost-effective and can be used in conjunction with ample fuel delivery options.
2. Steel Stores
A modern take when it comes to storing biomass wood fuel, modern steel stores are suitable for locations that are either internally or externally located.
The stores can give you a bespoke solution with the feature of adding sections onto the design whenever required, making it very convenient for the user.
It has a V-profile base, internal auger, a fuel feed conveyor as well as fill and vent pipes.
Get in Touch With JL Phillips for Expert Heating Solutions
JL Phillips is known for its expertise in the heating industry, and we abide by all the government regulations while being up-to-date with the latest schemes.
Our recent BUS scheme is a testament to us being in front of everything, so you can rest assured that your biomass boilers are in expert hands.
We have additional services and solutions, so make sure you visit our website to go through the options before making any final decisions.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us today!
