Biomass Molding Equipment Selection Guide

01 Selection Based on Raw Material Characteristics

Raw Material Type

If the primary raw material is crop straw, both pelletizers and briquette machines are suitable due to its high fiber content and loose texture. However, if the amount of straw is large and higher production efficiency is desired, a briquette machine may be more suitable. For forestry waste, such as sawdust and wood shavings, both pelletizers and carbonizers can effectively process them. If you want to convert these into high-value-added biochar products, a carbonizer should be selected.

Raw Material Particle Size

Raw materials with small and uniform particle sizes, such as finely ground sawdust, are suitable for pelletizers, ensuring high molding quality and stable equipment operation. For raw materials with larger particle sizes and irregular shapes, Tiantai briquette machines are more adaptable, reducing pretreatment steps and costs.

Raw Material Moisture Content

Generally speaking, biomass molding equipment has certain requirements for raw material moisture content. Pellet forming machines typically require a feedstock moisture content between 12% and 18%, while briquetting machines can tolerate slightly higher moisture levels, around 15% to 20%. Carbonizing machines require a lower feedstock moisture content, generally below 10%. Otherwise, carbonization and product quality will be affected. Therefore, when selecting a machine, consider the initial feedstock moisture content and the availability of appropriate drying equipment and processes.

02. Selecting a Machine Based on Production Scale

Small-Scale Production

For small farms, livestock farms, or individual operators primarily focused on self-use or supplying a small, local market, their production scale is relatively small, with an output of less than 1 ton per hour. In these cases, a small pellet forming machine or briquetting machine can be selected. These machines are relatively inexpensive, require minimal floor space, and are easy to operate, meeting small-scale production needs.

Medium-Scale Production

For medium-sized biomass energy enterprises with production scales between 1 and 5 tons per hour, a medium-sized pellet forming machine or briquetting machine, along with appropriate feedstock pretreatment equipment and finished product packaging equipment, can be selected to form a complete production line. At this scale, comprehensive consideration should be given to equipment capacity, stability, and operating costs to ensure optimal economic returns.

Large-Scale Production

Large-scale biomass energy production enterprises, with production capacities exceeding 5 tons per hour, require large-scale pelletizing, briquetting, or carbonization production lines. Large-scale production lines typically have a high degree of automation and high production efficiency, but they also require significant equipment investment and high technical and management expertise. When selecting a production line, consider the company's financial strength, market demand, and long-term development plans to ensure efficient and sustainable operation of the production line.

03 Selecting Based on Market Demand

Fuel Market Demand:

If there is a high demand for pellet fuel in the local area, such as with numerous biomass boiler users and heating companies, and if there are high requirements for fuel quality and environmental performance, a pelletizing machine is a more appropriate choice. If there is a high demand for low-cost fuel and transportation distances are relatively short, briquetting fuel may be more competitive and a briquetting machine should be given priority. ◦

Demand for high-value-added products:

If there is market demand for high-value-added products like biochar, such as soil conditioners and activated carbon, or if companies are looking to expand their product applications and increase profit margins, a carbonization machine is the perfect choice. Before selecting a model, thoroughly research market demand, price trends, and potential customer groups to ensure the product's success.

04 Consider Equipment Performance and After-Sales Service◦

Equipment Performance:

When selecting a model, focus on key performance indicators such as production capacity, yield, energy consumption, and wear part life. Production capacity should be commensurate with production scale. A high yield means high product quality and minimal waste. Low-energy equipment reduces operating costs, while long-life wear parts reduce maintenance frequency and costs. You can learn about the actual performance of a machine by reviewing its manual, consulting with other users, or conducting on-site inspections. ◦

After-Sales Service:

High-quality after-sales service ensures the proper operation of your equipment. When selecting an equipment supplier, consider its after-sales service capabilities, including whether it offers services such as equipment installation and commissioning, operator training, troubleshooting, and parts supply. Excellent after-sales service can promptly resolve issues that arise during equipment use, reducing downtime and improving production efficiency.

In short, selecting biomass pelletizing equipment requires comprehensive consideration of many factors. Only by comprehensively analyzing and weighing factors such as raw material characteristics, production scale, market demand, equipment performance, and after-sales service can you choose the biomass pelletizing equipment that best suits your business, achieving efficient utilization of biomass energy and maximizing economic benefits.