DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF AN UPDRAFT GASIFIER
The escalating global energy demand and finite fossil fuel resources necessitate the exploration of renewable, sustainable energy alternatives. This study addresses the urgent need for environmentally friendly energy solutions by designing and evaluating an updraft gasifier using agricultural waste biomass, specifically rice husk and sawdust. The was to develop a cost-effective gasification system capable of converting locally available biomass into combustible syngas, with potential applications in rural electrification and decentralized energy production. The research methodology involved constructing a 10 kg capacity updraft gasifier using mild steel, galvanized iron, and stainless-steel components. The experimental approach employed a water boiling test to assess thermal performance, measuring key parameters such as start-up time, operating time, fuel consumption rate, and specific gasification rate. Performance evaluation focused on two biomass feedstocks: rice husk and sawdust. Results revealed significant variations between rice husk and sawdust performance. Rice husk demonstrated a longer start time (450 seconds), extended exhaust time (4600 seconds), and higher gasification temperature (1500°C) compared to sawdust. Moisture content analysis showed both feedstocks stabilized their moisture loss after nine days, with sawdust drying marginally faster. Combustible gas production tests indicated 60 minutes of gas generation for rice husk and 45 minutes for sawdust. The study concludes that the designed updraft gasifier offers a promising solution for converting agricultural waste into energy, with potential applications in rural and decentralized settings. It is recommended to optimize the gasifier design for higher efficiency, broaden the range of biomass feedstocks tested, and integrate the system into community-based renewable energy initiatives to enhance its scalability, sustainability, and impact.
Authors : Ibrahim, W.M., Oumarou, M.B. and Toyin, A.A.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 10(1) Date Uploaded : 5th January 2025