The Potential of Using Two-Step Drying Techniques for Improving Energy Efficiency and Increasing Drying Capacity in Fuel Pellet Industries

Abstract

The use of wood fuel pellets has increased worldwide in recent years, and pellet producers conclude that the lack of drying capacity is a barrier to increased production. In this study, we develop a concept of two different dryers called the two-step drying technique. The aim is to show the potential for increasing the drying capacity and improving energy efficiency when introducing a second dryer into the pellet plant. The study is theoretical and based on an industrial packed moving bed dryer. It shows that the drying capacity increased by 22% when a pneumatic second dryer was used.

Keywords:

• Drying capacity
• Energy efficiency
• Packed moving bed
• Pneumatic dryer
• Wood fuel pellet

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Many thanks to Stefan Olsson and his staff at Stora Enso Timber AB for allowing us to use their dryer in our research.