Efficient Briquetting of Wet Materials
Briquetting wet materials requires a combination of pre-treatment, equipment modification, and process optimization. Proper moisture control and system adjustments are essential for producing high-quality briquettes while maintaining operational efficiency.
Moisture Control
- Pre-treat materials using belt dryers, rotary dryers, or solar drying
- Implement mechanical dewatering with centrifuges or screw presses
- Maintain optimal moisture range (8-15% for biomass) - avoid over-drying
Equipment Modifications
- Use presses with higher compression forces for moisture expulsion
- Install heated molds with precise temperature control
- Modify dies with larger drainage holes/grooves to prevent steam pressure buildup
Process Optimization
- Control feed rate for even material distribution
- Extend compression duration for better moisture removal
- Implement real-time monitoring (moisture/pressure/temperature sensors)
Binding Agents
- Use natural binders like starch or lignin
- Consider synthetic polymers for challenging materials
- Optimize binder ratios to maintain briquette strength at higher moisture levels
Integrated Solution: Combining moisture control, equipment modifications, process optimization, and selective binder use creates the most effective approach for briquetting wet materials while maintaining quality and efficiency.