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Home Service FAQs FAQ of biomass-fired boilers Can biomass pellets be burned in a coal boiler?

Can biomass pellets be burned in a coal boiler?

10 Nov 2023

Can Biomass Pellets Be Burned in a Coal Boiler? An Exploration with ZOZEN Boiler

The question of whether biomass pellets can be burned in a coal boiler is a common one. First, let's understand the combustion characteristics of biomass pellets.

Biomass pellets are solid fuels made from processed, shaped, and dried biomass materials. Compared to traditional fuels like coal, biomass pellets produce lower emissions and are more efficient. They typically burn at temperatures below 800°C, releasing fewer pollutants like CO and NOx, thus having a lesser environmental impact.

But can they be burned in a coal boiler?

Biomass pellets generally aren't suitable for direct use in traditional coal-fired boilers. While they can be a renewable alternative to coal, their combustion characteristics differ. Using them in coal boilers could lead to lower combustion efficiency, decreased thermal efficiency, and potentially harmful emissions.

The question primarily pertains to traditional coal-fired boilers, whose combustion systems, oxygen supply systems, and flue gas treatment systems are optimized for coal's burning properties. Biomass pellets, with their lower density, higher volatile matter, and higher ash content, present challenges during combustion, like particulate formation, slagging, and fouling, which can be challenging for both combustion equipment and flue gas treatment systems.

ZOZEN Boiler's Experience with Coal-Fired Boilers and Biomass Pellets

Since its inception, ZOZEN Boiler has been designing and manufacturing coal-fired hot water boilers with mature technology and numerous achievements. Currently, the company's coal-fired boilers include four series - DZL, SZL, DHL, SHL - and circulating fluidized bed boilers, which are also suitable for various fuels including biomass pellets, wood chips, palm shells, straw, anthracite, lean coal, and bituminous coal.

ZOZEN Coal-Fired Boiler Specifications Table:

Boiler Type Capacity (MW) Working Pressure (MPa) Thermal Efficiency (%) Suitable Fuels
DZL Series 1.4 - 14 0.7 - 1.25 82% Various Coals
SZL Series 2.8 - 29 1 - 1.25 82% Various Coals
DHL Series 29 - 140 1.25 - 1.6 82% Various Coals
SHX Circulating Fluidized Bed Boiler 7 - 58 1 - 1.6 89% Coal, Biomass, Sludge
DHX Circulating Fluidized Bed Boiler 58 - 116 1.25 - 1.6 89% Coal, Biomass

For more information on whether biomass pellets can be burned in a coal boiler, feel free to consult our customer service online or call our toll-free hotline at 400-161-0099. ZOZEN Boiler will provide a high cost-performance solution based on your specific needs.

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