Topell Torrefaction System (TTS) – multi-stage torrefaction
Topell Energy has designed a unique process to produce torrefied pellets using the Torbed® reactor. Topell Energy owns the exclusive rights to use the Torbed® technology for the torrefaction of biomass.
After this multi-stage torrefaction process, the torrefied biomass is cooled and compacted, resulting in an energy dense torrefied pellet that can be stored and shipped to customers. This unique design provides for an efficient torrefaction process with an end-product of high and consistent quality.
Topell Energy’s process and technology are flexible with respect to the particle size and to the nature of the incoming biomass. This keeps down the costs of pre-processing the feedstock prior to torrefaction, and broadens the range of feedstocks that can be used, thereby making the process less dependent on specific types of feedstock. Efficiency, process controllability and flexibility are all essential cost drivers: keeping feedstock and processing costs as low as possible is crucial in a commodity market.
Topell Energy has accumulated a wealth of expertise in using Torbed® reactors effectively and efficiently in its TTS. Topell Energy’s process has been tested and fine-tuned with a test reactor, operated since February 2009, to ensure output of the highest possible quality. During this time, over 800 samples of torrefied biomass have been produced. The findings from these tests were:
- Information on the characteristics of torrefied biomass;
- Information on product specifications (reactivity, combustion properties, grindability, etc.)
These findings led to an optimization of the torrefaction process, for instance the sizing of particles, the re-utilization of the released heat, the cooling and compacting of the product. All of these aspects have been incorporated into the design of the industrial scale plant that is currently under construction.
*) TORBED is a registered trademark of Mortimer Technology holdings Ltd.
