What is the process of continuous carbonization?

Continuous carbonization furnaces are advanced equipment used for the continuous carbonization of biomass materials. This process, also known as biomass carbonization or biochar production, involves converting organic materials into high-quality charcoal through a controlled heating process. Continuous carbonization furnaces offer several advantages over traditional batch carbonization methods, including increased efficiency, higher production capacity, and reduced energy consumption. This article explores the working principles and benefits of continuous carbonization furnaces in biomass conversion.

Working Principles

Continuous carbonization furnaces operate on the principle of pyrolysis, which is the decomposition of organic materials at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen. The furnace consists of a feeding system, a carbonization chamber, and a discharging system. The biomass materials, such as wood chips, sawdust, agricultural residues, or municipal solid waste, are continuously fed into the carbonization chamber through a conveyor belt or auger system.

Inside the carbonization chamber, the biomass materials undergo a series of thermal reactions. Initially, the materials are dried and heated to a specific temperature range, typically between 300°C and 500°C, where volatile components, such as water, tar, and gases, are released. These volatile components are then directed to a condensation system for further processing or energy recovery.

After the initial drying and heating phase, the remaining solid residue undergoes further decomposition, resulting in the formation of carbonized biomass or biochar. The biochar is then moved through the carbonization chamber gradually, allowing for complete carbonization. The residence time of the biomass materials in the furnace can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of carbonization.