The process flow of an RDF pellet production line shares some similarities with the briquetting process but has key differences. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Pre-treatment:
Shredding: Similar to Pellet, the starting point involves shredding raw RDF to a consistent size, usually below 80mm.
Sorting and separation: Similar to Pellet, non-combustible materials like metal and glass are removed through various techniques.
Drying: Unlike Pellet, drying is almost always essential for pellet production. High moisture content (above 10%) hinders binding and reduces pellet quality. Drying methods include rotary dryers, drum dryers, or fluidized bed dryers.
2. Grinding:
After drying, the RDF undergoes further size reduction in specialized grinding mills, typically hammer mills or disc mills. This achieves a finer particle size (around 1-3mm) necessary for efficient pelleting.
3. Pelleting:
Feeding: The finely ground RDF is fed into the pelleting machine.
Pelleting process: The material is pressurized and heated within the machine. The heat softens the material, while pressure forces it through a die, forming cylindrical pellets. This process utilizes friction and natural binders within the RDF to solidify the pellets.
Cooling: Similar to Pellet, the pellets are cooled to solidify and prevent breakage.
4. Post-processing:
Screening and sorting: Oversized or undersized pellets are removed through sieves or screens.
Packaging: Pellets are packed in bags or containers for storage and transportation.
Additional considerations:
Binders: In some cases, additional binders like starch or lignin might be used to improve pellet strength and stability.
Dust control: Similar to Pellet, dust control measures throughout the process are crucial.
Emission control: Similar considerations apply regarding emissions control during combustion.
Benefits of RDF pellets:
Superior handling and transportation: Pellets offer even better flowability and dust control compared to Pellet.
Higher density and energy value: Due to the compaction process, pellets generally have a higher density and heating value than briquettes.
Wider application: Pellets are commonly used in industrial boilers and power plants, offering greater market opportunities.
Challenges of RDF pellets:
Higher investment: Pelleting technology and equipment generally require a higher initial investment compared to briquetting.
Energy consumption: The pelleting process typically consumes more energy due to the grinding and high-pressure compaction involved.
Moisture sensitivity: Fluctuations in moisture content can impact pellet quality and production efficiency.
RDF Pellet Machine
Ring die pellet machine is one of the most stable pellet machines with a large capacity. If you have hundreds of tons of raw materials supplied every day, this machine would be a good choice.
The output of a single machine is 2,000KG/H-5,000KG/H, best choice for industrial pellet large-scale production.
The compression ratio is adjustable and customization available.
Modular mold, patent enlarged press roller, easy to maintain.
24 hours continuous operation.
No binder needed; environment friendly.
The maximum material size can reach 40 mm, saving the crushing pre-treatment cost.
Application Fields Of The RDF Pellet Machine
Energy:
Power plants: Fuel source, co-firing or primary fuel.
Industrial boilers: Process heat, steam generation, replacing fossil fuels.
Cement production: Alternative fuel in kilns, reducing CO2 emissions.
District heating: Fuel for centralized heating systems.
Beyond Energy:
Biomass Pellet: Production from other biomass sources.
Gasification, pyrolysis, biochar: Depending on processing technologies.
Benefits:
Waste management and resource recovery.
Sustainable and environmentally friendly.
More competitive with traditional fuels.
Contributes to a circular economy and low-carbon future.