Continuous Mechanically Controlled Solids Ash Metering from High to Low Gas Pressure

110 Continuous Mechanically Controlled Solids Ash Metering from High to Low Gas Pressure-Stamet, Inc., 17244 South Main Street, Gardena, CA 90248-3101; (310) 719-7110 Dr. Andrew G. Hay, Principal Investigator Mr. Morton M. Winston, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-97ER82481 Amount: $75,000 The Department of Energy is actively encouraging the development of Pulverized Fluidized Bed Combustors which permit the use of opportunity fuels and which, when used with Combined Cycle Electricity Generation, provide the most efficient and least polluting method of producing electricity from solid fuel. The ash formed in these high pressure combustors must be released from pressure without allowing the release of the hot gas. Conventionally, the ash is released intermittently through a complex series of pressure vessels and valves which form ¿lock hoppers¿, and which are expensive in capital, running and maintenance costs. This project involves a new method of ash removal from pressure which relies on a simple continuously rotating machine, without valves or pressure vessels, and which also provides precise flow control. The machine utilizes a new technology known as PosimetricTM solids feeding, and will release hot abrasive ash from pressurized combustors in a continuous controlled and economical way. In Phase I a pilot facility will be constructed in which ash at ambient temperature will be let down from reactor pressure using a range of typical pressurized combustor ashes. Reliability and flow control will be investigated over the full range of reactor pressure. In Phase II the effect of temperature will be added to the effect of pressure and a larger heated facility will be constructed to permit testing of the PosimetricTM let down system at full ash temperature and pressure (450 psig) at flow rates close to commercial size. Commercial Application and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: If successful this PosimetricTM system of ash depressurization would permit more economical construction and operation of pressurized combustors resulting in less fuel used, less pollution, and thus less global warming.