Analysis of technologies and equipment for use of sunflower waste as biofuel
Abstract
The article considers potential opportunities of obtaining and use of sunflower biomass; prerequisites for its effective use in the energy field have been researched. The article deals with methods of harvesting sunflower and technical means for their implementation. Information about fuel characteristics of sunflower stalks and properties of its cinder was described. The overview of technologies and the equipment for harvesting non-seed part of sunflower was carried out. Much attention is given to the best harvesting practices in Ukraine as well as abroad. Main types of biofuel that can be received from the vegetation and seeds mass of sunflower were determined. Advantages and disadvantages of using each type of fuel were taken into account. Amounts of collateral products that can be used for energy needs increase with growth of sunflower productivity. Determining the amount of harvesting non-seed part of sunflower in the conditions of Ukraine it is required to take into accont the balance of humus and nutritious elements, to avoid such consequence as erosion and deterioration in characteristics of soil. Use of non-seed part of sunflower in the form of solid fuel (briquettes, granules, bales) is perspective. It has better fuel characteristics than straw of cereals. The following advantages of using granules and briquettes as fuel worth mentioning: the combustion residues (cinder) quantity accounts from 2,2% to 10% of total amount of the used granules; the process of granules combustion can be completely automated; convenience of transportation and storage; no polluting emissions of combution products; ashes can be used as organic fertilizer. High humidity of sunflower stalks can limit their use for production of solid fuel. Therefore sunflower stalks are to be harvested when humidity of biomass decreases to 20%. Plans of works during the harvest company should to be coordinated with weather forecast. Suitable technologies and equipment are important factors to ensure proper quality of biomass.
