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Heat Loss Analysis in Rotary Kiln Torrefaction of Biomass Fuel Using Briquetted Fuel as Thermal Energy Source

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Abstract:

This study presents an in-depth analysis of heat loss mechanisms in a rotary kiln system used for biomass torrefaction, with briquetted biomass fuel serving as the primary thermal energy source. The study evaluates five principal heat loss pathways: wall heat loss, exhaust gas heat loss, hydrogen-related heat loss, moisture evaporation, and heat loss due to incomplete combustion. Experimental tests were conducted at three torrefaction temperatures (230°C, 250°C, and 270°C), and thermal energy losses were quantified through temperature measurements, energy balance equations, and gas composition analysis. Results indicate that while absolute heat loss values increased with higher torrefaction temperatures due to elevated energy input and system load, the percentage of heat loss relative to total input decreased, improving net thermal efficiency. Wall heat loss was the dominant component across all conditions but declined in percentage terms from 80.5% to 30.9% as temperature increased. The reuse of exhaust gas for drying briquetted biomass was also investigated, demonstrating that waste heat recovery significantly reduces drying time—from 19 hours at 230°C to 13 hours at 270°C—without compromising fuel integrity. These findings confirm that integrating exhaust gas utilization into the torrefaction process enhances energy efficiency, supports continuous operation, and reduces external energy demand, offering a viable strategy for sustainable biomass fuel processing at an industrial scale. The findings provide design guidance for integrating heat recovery into industrial-scale biomass torrefaction systems.

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Periodical:

Defect and Diffusion Forum (Volume 445)

Pages:

199-210

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4028/p-22YFd4

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Online since:

December 2025

Authors:

Weeranut Intagun, Nat Thuchayapong, Nattawut Tharawadee*

Keywords:

Briquetted Biomass Fuel, Heat Loss Analysis, Rotary Kiln Torrefaction, Thermal Efficiency, Waste Heat Recovery

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© 2025 Trans Tech Publications Ltd. All Rights Reserved

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* - Corresponding Author

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