Technical and economic feasibility of utilizing apple pomace as a boiler feedstock

摘要: Apple pomace or presscake, was evaluated for suitability as a boiler feedstock Michigan firms processing apple juice. Based upon the physical and chemical characteristics of pomace, handling/direct combustion systems were selected to conform with operating parameters typical industry. Fresh flow rates 29,030 88,998 kg/day (64,000 194,000 lb/day) considered representative small large processors, respectively, material assumed be dried 15% moisture content (wet basis) prior storage combustion. Boilers utilizing pile-burning, fluidized-bed-combustion, suspension-firing technologies sized each rate, resulting in energy production 2930 8790 kW (10 30 million Btu/h), respectively. A life-cycle cost analysis performed giving Average Annual Costs three handling/combustion system combinations (based on Uniform Capital Recovery factor). An investment loan at 16% interest 5-year payback period assumed. The break-even annual costs calculated by anticipated savings incurred through reduction fossil-fuel during 5-month season. Large producing more than kg pomace/day, could economically convert suspension-fired substituting fuel oil, occurring after 4 months operation per year.more » Small less kg/day, not currently given these economic circumstances. doubling electrical-utility changes from 10 20% year had only slight effects recovery Costs. Increases prices necessity pay disposal reduced cost-recovery all systems, making some feasible processors. 39 references, 13 figures, tables.« less