The heterogenous configuration and size distribution, and high moisture content of biomass fuels, makes energy
extraction a significant challenge. By drying and pelletizing these materials to a consistent size and configuration, the
handling, transport, storage and combustion of these materials are greatly improved. Altex has available
a 5 ton/day (4.5 tonne/d) test facility, which can be used to extrude or pelletize many types of materials. Once
extruded, these materials can be dried, using an available conveyor dryer.
To date, Altex has used this equipment
to produce pellets consisting of biosolids, yard plant waste and paper waste, alone and mixed with fossil fuels, such as waste coal fines, coal and waste plastic.
The pelletization facility consists of
a 1/2 ton-per-hour (454 kg/h) Fate-Root-Heath extruder and Proctor and Schwartz conveyor dryer, supported by
a number of mixers, feeders, conveyors, bins, etc. The fully instrumented system is set up to continuously process
material to a product, thereby simulating full-scale operations. Besides organic material, the facility has also been
successfully used to pelletize inorganic materials. Dies are available that can be used to generate pellets of any
size, from 3/16 inch (0.5 cm) diameter and larger.
Cutters can be used to size extruded material, or pellets, to specific lengths from a fraction of an inch to
several feet. Extruded materials can be dried to any level of residual
moisture. As needed, higher temperature firing can then be used to cure the material. For special jobs, the modular
equipment can be rearranged and custom dies and cutters can be incorporated, as needed.
Extruder and dryer
equipment manufacturers have assisted in the design of the Altex test facility, and have concluded from test results
and observations that the facility simulates full scale commercial operations. Therefore, credible product development
and trial runs can be accomplished in these facilities. Altex, being a technical services organization, can assist
companies in proprietary or non-proprietary product test and development efforts. We can be very
responsive, moving quickly to set up the equipment and support testing.