Abstract
Correct design of air manifolds applied in biomass-fired batch boilers allows to avoid excessive emissions and high flow resistance, as well as helps achieving the required parameters of the fan supplying air to the boiler. The paper describes the process and the results of the optimization performed using selected methods based on the response surface analysis. An experimentally validated CFD model of the state of the art air manifold has been geometrically parametrized, in order to find the shape that is optimal from the point of view of the objective function. In each analysis, the objective function was linked to air flow characteristics. Selected algorithms of the interpolation of design points that were obtained as the result of the numerical experiment have been compared and evaluated. Optimization using the response surface generated using various algorithms has been performed and verified by further direct CFD computations. The obtained optimal values of the input parameters were applied in the final model of the prototype. The flow characteristics of the prototype and the reference state have been compared and discussed. Significant improvement of the operation conditions has been achieved.
Highlights
Biomass as a fuel alternative to fossil fuels is again the subject of studies in many research institutes
It has to be noted that the flow characteristics at the external primary air ducts are the key factor for the improvement of the combustion conditions, due to the usually worse conditions at the sides of the primary combustion chamber of batch boilers [6, 8]
The design of the external part of the air distribution system applied in biomass-fired batch boilers may be considered important to the location, number and shape of the air inlets in the combustion chamber
Summary
Biomass as a fuel alternative to fossil fuels is again the subject of studies in many research institutes. The biggest advantage of the units referred to above, is that they can operate in a cost - efficient way, using fuel near its production site Thanks to this approach it is possible to provide heat or/and electricity where its transmission is difficult due to technical issues. Taking these facts into account it is well substantiated to develop installations based on devices equipped with batch combustion chambers or automated fuel supply systems [3 - 5]. In countries with a significant share of agriculture in the economy (such as Eastern Europe and Asia), the energy potential of agricultural wastes, such as straw, is significant In such countries, straw - fired batch boilers become increasingly popular, due to structural simplicity and the technical robustness. The key part of this system is the external air manifold dividing and transporting air to appropriate sections of the boiler
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