Driving Force in Biomass Optimization is Measurement Technologies

Biomass, a renewable organic energy source derived from plants, animals, and microorganisms, is increasingly vital in the global shift toward sustainable energy.

Natural materials like wood, agricultural residues, and algae are converted into biofuel, providing a cleaner alternative for heating, electricity generation, and transportation. As governments and industries worldwide invest in bioenergy technologies to reduce carbon emissions, the biomass sector is experiencing significant growth.

Bioenergy, provided from biomass sources, accounts for over 6% of the global energy supply, making it the largest renewable energy source globally, surpassing solar and wind power combined. (Source: International Energy Agency)

The global biomass power market was estimated at $134B in 2023. It is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.3% from 2024 to 2030. (Source: Grand View Research). Sensor technology plays a part in this growth, helping to expand the production, supply, storage, and equipment optimization for biomass energy.

Interface supplies force, torque, and weighing measurement solutions to advance biomass energy production. Our diverse range of products, including load cells, torque transducers, and wireless telemetry systems, are engineered for precision, durability, and versatility. These sensors are critical for optimizing biomass processing, ensuring safety, and maximizing efficiency across various applications.

Interface Measurement Solutions for Biomass Production and Monitoring

  • Accurate Fuel Measurement: Our LowProfile load cells and weigh assemblies ensure precise measurement of biomass fuel during handling and processing. This prevents overloading of conveyor systems, hoppers, and silos, optimizing material flow and feed rates for combustion, gasification, or anaerobic digestion.
  • Torrefaction Process Control: Torque transducers play a key role in monitoring and controlling the torrefaction process, which enhances biomass’s fuel properties. Operators can fine-tune process parameters by measuring torque in the rotating kiln, ensuring consistent product quality and preventing equipment overload.
  • Steam Generation Monitoring: Load cells can accurately measure the steam generated from burning biomass, providing valuable data for performance optimization and emissions control.
  • Real-time Data and Wireless Monitoring: Interface’s wireless load cells and telemetry systems enable real-time data acquisition and remote monitoring of critical process parameters, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Nearly two-thirds of future biofuel demand growth will come from emerging economies. Countries like India, Brazil, and Indonesia are leading this growth due to abundant feedstocks, supportive policies, and the desire to enhance energy security by reducing reliance on oil imports. (Source: International Energy Agency).


Biomass Handling Application

Biomass refers to natural resources that can be used as renewable energy. In the forestry industry, wood, branches, twigs, logs, and leaves can all be converted into renewable energy for heating or power generation. A weighing system is needed to measure forestry biomass to ensure consistent processing. Interface suggests using the PBLC Pillow Block Load Bearing Load Cells on the conveyor belts to transfer biomass chips and other wood agriculture in forestry. The PBLCs measure and monitor the force of the conveyor belt while preventing misalignment. When connected to the 920i Programmable Weight Indicator and Controller, the customer can see the total weight of the transported biomass.

Interface Products Commonly Used in Biomass Applications

  • LowProfile Load Cells
  • LowProfile Wireless Load Cells
  • Stainless Steel LowProfile Universal Load Cells
  • Miniature Load Cells
  • Pillow Block Load Bearing Load Cells
  • Rotary Torque Transducers
  • Load Pins, Load Shackles, and Tension Load Links
  • Programmable Weight Indicator and Controllers
  • Portable and Handheld Displays
  • Wireless Telemetry Systems
  • Mount Weighing Assemblies

Interface is dedicated to supporting the growth of sustainable energy solutions. By providing reliable and innovative measurement technologies, we are helping to optimize biomass energy production, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future for all.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Force Measurement Solutions for the Forestry Industry

Natural Resources

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Load Cells for Renewable Energy Production and Testing

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