System and method for producing fuel from compressed biomass

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system (100) for producing fuel from compressed biomass, wherein the system (100) comprises at least the following components: a washing unit (110); a comminuting device (120); a mechanical dewatering device (130); a thermal drying device (140); and a shaping device (150), wherein the system (100) and / or the components of the system is / are divided into modules (160), each module (160) being surrounded by an enclosing device (162), and wherein the washing unit (110) and the thermal drying device (140) are arranged in different modules (160), and the mechanical dewatering device (130) and the thermal drying device (140) are arranged in different modules (160). The present invention also relates to a method for producing fuel from compressed biomass by means of such a system, to a computer-readable medium, and to a program element.

Description

[0001] System and process for producing fuel from pressed biomass

[0002] AREA OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a system and a method for producing fuel from pressed biomass. The present invention further relates to a computer-readable medium and a program element.

[0004] BACKGROUND AND STATE OF THE ART

[0005] The production of fuel, for example in the form of pellets or briquettes, from biomass such as green waste or leaves is a well-known process. For example, WO 2004 / 067685 Al describes a process for producing fuel from pressed biomass, in which the biomass undergoes a comminution and a drying process before being pressed into pellets. Further details on the comminution process are described, among others, in DE 10 2008 035 222 Al and DE 10 2008 064 803 B3. The use of a waterjet cutter and washing the biomass has also proven advantageous, as described in DE 10 2012 203 148 B3. For drying, a contact dryer can be used, for example, as described in DE 10 2016 213 956 Al.

[0006] In practice, however, it has become apparent that such systems, which contain standard industrial components, still need to be isolated from their surroundings, even though the individual components already constitute independent systems, sometimes including their own enclosures. The main problem here is the interaction between the individual components and with the environment. Installing these components in a hall is not ideal because the open access doors (for loading and unloading) emit noise, heat, and odors. Since such a system consists of numerous high-performance asynchronous electric motors, vibration interference (mechanical / acoustic) also occurs, which is difficult to model and therefore only becomes apparent after the hall is completed and the components are installed. In particular, asynchronous motors, due to their uniform mains frequency, can exhibit slippage depending on the load (i.e., varying speeds).(a load-dependent decrease in rotational speed from the normal speed) interact with each other through mutual superposition (interference), which can lead to infrasound and vibrations, especially due to small speed differences caused by slippage.

[0007] Pellet production plants consist of numerous interconnected individual systems or components. To protect them from external influences (vandalism, weather, damage from small animals) and / or emissions (noise, odors, infrasound), such plants are typically housed in a building that limits interactions between the interior and exterior. However, in certain configurations, the interaction of the individual system components can lead to disruptive mutual interference. Although the subsystems usually have an outer enclosure, mechanical or acoustic vibrations can affect each other under certain conditions. A typical pellet production plant also includes motors with power outputs of 40 to 100 kW, meaning that system-related vibrations and noise are common occurrences. This does not pose a particular problem for an isolated subsystem and its surroundings.However, if multiple or even numerous different subsystems or components are installed in the same hall, highly disruptive interference conditions can arise from their interaction. In particular, it has been shown that under such interference conditions (mechanically and / or acoustically coupled vibration systems), corresponding standing wave systems can form in humid media, such as in a washing system. This complicates the removal of contaminants, especially when attempting to optimize system operating parameters for energy efficiency. Modeling such vibration systems is only possible in exceptional cases, and each installation results in an overall system behavior with a wide variety of natural frequencies and vibration modes, which cannot be predicted in advance due to the installation surface, the properties of the hall material, the mechanical dimensions of the installation site, and other factors.

[0008] There is therefore still a need for improvements and optimizations in a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass and in a process that uses it.

[0009] TASK OF INVENTION

[0010] One object of the present invention is therefore to provide an improved system and process for producing fuel from pressed biomass, in which the individual components are largely protected from external influences (for example, vandalism, weather influences, small animal damage), have as little negative impact on each other as possible (for example, with regard to interferences or microclimate), and also emit as few emissions as possible (for example, noise, odors) to the outside.

[0011] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The inventors of the present invention have conducted extensive investigations and have found that by dividing the system or the individual components of the system into modules, with each module being enclosed and separated from the other modules, improved protection from the environment (both with regard to external disturbances and emissions) can be achieved, and adverse interactions between the components can be largely prevented or at least minimized. It has proven particularly advantageous to house the washing unit and the thermal drying unit in separate modules, as well as the mechanical dewatering unit and the thermal drying unit in separate modules.

[0013] Without wanting to be bound to any specific theory, the inventors currently assume that this division will create different microclimates in the at least three modules. While the washing unit, with its large volume of water, has high humidity, this would be counterproductive in the drying unit, as it would require more energy for drying. The separation between the mechanical drainage system and the thermal drying system is, in turn, very advantageous for thermal reasons: different thermal microclimates develop here. The drying system is warmer than the drainage system. This spatial separation also allows for energy optimization.By dividing the system into at least 3 modules, it is possible to prevent disruptive standing wave patterns (through resonance and self-organization) from developing in the washing unit (mechanical and / or acoustic transmission) even under adverse process conditions, as well as, for example, corresponding pattern formation of the biomass on the conveyor belt (acoustic coupling) in a belt dryer.

[0014] The present invention relates accordingly to a system (arrangement, device) for producing fuel from pressed biomass, wherein the system comprises at least the following components: a washing unit, a comminution device (in particular a fine comminution device), a mechanical dewatering device, a thermal drying device and a shaping device (optionally including a compaction device), wherein the system and / or the (individual) components of the system are divided into modules, each module being surrounded by an enclosure device.wherein the modules are each surrounded by an enclosure device), wherein the washing unit and the thermal drying device are arranged (housed, installed) in different (separate) modules, wherein the mechanical drainage device and the thermal drying device are arranged (housed, installed) in different (separate) modules.

[0015] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for producing fuel from pressed biomass using a system as described herein, wherein the method comprises: washing biomass in the washing unit, comminution, in particular fine comminution, of the (washed) biomass in the comminution device, mechanical dewatering of the (compressed) biomass in the mechanical dewatering device, thermal drying of the (dewatered) biomass in the thermal drying device, and shaping (optionally including compaction) of the (dried) biomass in the shaping device.

[0016] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a computer-readable medium on which a computer program is stored, wherein the computer program is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a system and / or a method for producing fuel from compressed biomass as described herein.

[0017] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a program element which, when executed on a processor, controls and / or regulates a system and / or a method for producing fuel from pressed biomass as described herein.

[0018] Further tasks and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying illustrations.

[0019] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE IMAGES

[0020] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to a further exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a module according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of a top view of a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to a further exemplary embodiment.

[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Further details of the present invention and other embodiments thereof are described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the following detailed description, which merely serves to illustrate the teachings of the invention. It should be noted that features described in connection with one exemplary embodiment can be combined with any other exemplary embodiment.In particular, features described in connection with an exemplary embodiment of a system according to the invention can be combined with any other exemplary embodiment of a system according to the invention, as well as with any exemplary embodiment of a method according to the invention, as well as with any exemplary embodiment of a computer-readable medium according to the invention and any exemplary embodiment of a program element according to the invention, and vice versa, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0026] When a term is used with an indefinite or definite article, such as "ein," "eine," "eines," "der," "die," and "das" in the singular, this also includes the plural form, and vice versa, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The expressions "aufweisen" and "umfassen," as used here, do not only include the meaning of "contain" or "include," but can also mean "consist of" and "essentially consist of."

[0027] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the terms "at least partially" or "at least a part" as used herein can mean at least 1% thereof, at least 2% thereof, at least 5% thereof, at least 10% thereof, at least 15% thereof, at least 20% thereof, at least 25% thereof, at least 30% thereof, at least 35% thereof, at least 40% thereof, at least 45% thereof, at least 50% thereof, at least 55% thereof, at least 60% thereof, at least 65% thereof, at least 70% thereof, at least 75% thereof, at least 80% thereof, at least 85% thereof, at least 90% thereof, at least 95% thereof, at least 98% thereof, at least 99% thereof, and can also mean 100% thereof. In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a system for producing fuel from pressed biomass. The fuel, which consists of pressed biomass, can be in particular pellets and / or briquettes.

[0028] For the purposes of this application, "biomass" refers in particular to plant products that can be used to generate heating energy, electrical energy and as fuels.

[0029] For the purposes of this application, "pellets" are understood to mean, in particular, small bodies made of compressed material in the shape of balls or cylinders. These can be, in particular, combustible granules used as a heating fuel. The typical diameter of pellets is between 6 and 25 mm. Pellets are mostly used in automatically fed combustion systems and pellet stoves, which offer a similar level of convenience to oil or gas heating systems; however, they are also suitable for firing large-scale systems (e.g., thermal power plants, steam boilers, etc.).

[0030] For the purposes of this application, "briquettes" refers in particular to compressed fuel material with a larger size than pellets, for example with a diameter greater than 25 mm.

[0031] In connection with the present invention, it is important that the system or the (individual) components of the system are divided into modules, each module being surrounded by an enclosure. A module can comprise one or more components, and in the case of multiple components in one module, these advantageously do not significantly affect each other negatively. The number of modules can therefore be less than or equal to the number of components. It is also possible, in principle, for a component to have several (sub-)components, which in turn can be arranged in the same module or in different modules, so that the number of modules can also be greater than the number of components. Preferably, however, the number of modules is less than or equal to the number of components.

[0032] At least the washing unit and the thermal drying unit, as well as the mechanical drainage unit and the thermal drying unit, are housed in different (separate) modules. This allows for different microclimates with regard to humidity between the washing unit and the thermal drying unit, as well as different thermal microclimates between the mechanical drainage unit and the thermal drying unit, resulting in energy optimization in both cases.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment, the enclosure comprises a base system and a casing. The base system can be a base element, or it can include struts (for example, made of steel) in addition to a base element, thereby forming a frame structure into which, for example, panels can be inserted as side walls. The base system can absorb the mechanical forces (vibrations, dead weight, media weight [fluids], etc.), particularly those of the component arranged within the enclosure. The casing can consist of single or multiple elements that form one or more walls and a ceiling of the enclosure. The casing can, in particular, shield against external influences and reduce the transmission of acoustic vibrations. The base system and the casing can be detachably or permanently connected to one another.The base system and the encapsulation can also form a single unit, whereby the effect of deliberately planned different natural resonances can be used to reduce vibration transmission between the modules.

[0034] According to an exemplary embodiment, the natural resonant frequency between the base system of the module's enclosure and the component arranged within the module differs from the natural resonant frequency between the base system (the module's enclosure) and the surface (ground) on which the module's enclosure is located. In particular, the base system may additionally possess vibration-damping properties and / or vibration-damping means relative to the surface, and / or the component arranged within the module may possess vibration-damping properties and / or vibration-damping means relative to the base system. For installation, the modules are placed on some form of support, footing system, plinth, chassis, or the like on the ground.This system configuration now establishes the natural resonant frequency A, while the components arranged in the respective module, together with the base system, define the natural resonant frequency B. If the system is designed such that A is not equal to B, a [missing information] occurs.

[0035] Vibration damping reduces the vibration interaction between the modules. Additional vibration damping measures can be provided for components known to exhibit significant vibration behavior. In particular, the base system can have vibration-damping properties and / or components relative to the ground (e.g., a vibration damper in a chassis [shock absorber]), and / or system components can have vibration-damping properties and / or components relative to the base system (e.g., engine mounting on rubber buffers).

[0036] According to one exemplary embodiment, two or more modules have different weights. In particular, the weight of one module can differ from that of another module by a multiple. Since natural resonant frequencies vary considerably with the weight of the moving mass, it can be advantageous for the weights of the modules to differ, especially if the weight of one module is not a multiple of that of another. This allows, for example, uniform module sizes which could exhibit similar natural resonant frequencies regardless of module weight. By ensuring that modules do not weigh multiples of each other, the probability of similar natural resonant frequencies with respect to harmonic multiples can also be reduced.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment, the washing unit, the mechanical dewatering device, and / or the shredding device are arranged (housed, installed) in different (separate) modules. In particular, the washing unit and the mechanical dewatering device (especially the first mechanical dewatering device in the case of multiple mechanical dewatering devices) are arranged (housed, installed) in different (separate) modules.

[0038] According to one exemplary embodiment, the system has several (for example, two or three) mechanical drainage devices. It can be advantageous if these are arranged in the same module. This reduces heat losses due to cooling of the biomass during heat recovery and / or reduces the need for thermal insulation (because the heat is conserved within the module).

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, the modules are arranged such that their longitudinal axis deviates from a straight line. In particular, the modules can be arranged to span an (inner) surface, preferably designed to be suitable for work, maintenance, and / or material storage. It has been found to be advantageous if the modules are not arranged in a line. Since the vibration behavior of such complex systems is not trivially predictable, in an unfavorable case, a vibration that happens to propagate in the direction of said line can be amplified by the next module on the line. Even if the second module exhibits an ideal star-shaped vibration radiation pattern, under certain conditions the next module in the line will still exhibit the sum of the vibrations of the modules preceding it on the same line.If some of the modules deviate from a straight line, this accumulation of vibrations may propagate less ideally, particularly longitudinal resonances along a module's longitudinal axis (this also applies to transverse lines). Additionally, with a suitable module arrangement, a work area, transfer station, or storage area can be created in the space between the modules. This has an additional damping effect on vibrations and their propagation.

[0040] According to one exemplary embodiment, the inner area spanned by the modules is equipped with a barrier. Since such a system produces valuable materials, it is advantageous if, for example, during nighttime operation, the produced pellets or the used biomass are protected from unauthorized appropriation. A suitable arrangement that defines an inner area makes it relatively easy (e.g., using simple fence elements connecting the modules) to separate the inner area from the (potentially public) outer space.

[0041] According to an exemplary embodiment, connections, particularly mechanical connections and / or media lines, between the modules exhibit vibration-damping properties. Preferably, these connections are detachable. It has proven advantageous for connections between the modules to have vibration-damping properties. This applies particularly to mechanical connections and / or media lines. Since predicting the corresponding vibrations during system design would be very complex, it is especially advantageous if these connections can be easily disconnected – allowing for relatively simple adjustments in the event of a disruptive effect. Additionally, detachable connections between the modules facilitate easy transport, relocation of a system, and simplify installation.

[0042] According to an exemplary embodiment, the enclosure is designed such that the mechanical resonance of the enclosure and / or the internal (acoustic) resonance of the air body within the enclosure differs from the vibration frequency of the main emission of the component(s) contained therein. It is particularly advantageous if the mechanical resonance of the enclosure and / or the internal (acoustic) resonance of the air body within the enclosure also differs from the vibration frequency of secondary emissions of the component(s) contained therein. For this purpose, the weight of the enclosure can be adjusted, for example (the more massive, the better the damping effect), or the resonance frequency can be adjusted by means of damping mats or by adjusting the spring constant of the oscillating system 'housing'.

[0043] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one enclosure has vibration-damping properties. In particular, at least one enclosure is equipped with vibration damping (for example, in the transverse direction, sound) and / or vibration-damping properties (for example, in the mechanical resonance direction). This vibration damping can particularly relate to the enclosure and / or the weight transfer to the ground (i.e., provide so-called structure-borne sound insulation). Preferably, this vibration damping occurs with respect to sound waves. It is advantageous for both the transmission of vibrations and the radiation of sound (noise emissions) if at least one

[0044] The enclosure has vibration-damping properties.

[0045] According to one exemplary embodiment, the component arranged in an enclosure is connected to this enclosure, and the enclosure in turn has a connection to the substrate (for example, in the form of feet, a base, etc.). In particular, the weight of the component can first be transferred to the enclosure, which then in turn transfers the total weight to the substrate.

[0046] According to an exemplary embodiment, the enclosure of a module is designed to protect its contents from damage by small animals. In particular, the enclosure is designed to prevent small animals from entering the module. Small animals such as martens, mice, foxes, birds, etc., pose a potential problem with regard to chewing and / or gnawing on components (e.g., electrical cables). It is therefore advantageous if the enclosure has such small openings (if any openings, ventilation grilles, and / or passages are necessary at all) that essentially no small animals (or only less damaging birds) can penetrate. Due to the shyness of these animals, this problem is not particularly relevant for gates and doors that are only opened when people are nearby.

[0047] According to an exemplary embodiment, the enclosure device is designed to have a load-bearing capacity (e.g., snow load) of more than 1.1 kN / m². 2 (corresponds to snow load zone 3), especially more than 3.8 kN / m 2 (corresponds to snow load S100), preferably more than 5 kN / m 2 . Furthermore, the system may be exposed to snow loads during winter conditions. Therefore, the enclosure must not only be self-supporting but also able to withstand the additional load of a snow load in snow load zone 3 (more than 1.1 kN / m²). 2 ), in particular a snow load S100 (more than 3.8 kN / m²) 2 ), preferably more than 5 kN / m 2 , endure.

[0048] According to an exemplary embodiment, the enclosure is designed to reduce and / or prevent the ingress of liquids (rain, snow, hail, sleet, fog) from the outside. Although the installed components are normally suitable for outdoor use, it is advantageous if the enclosure can reduce and / or prevent the ingress of external liquids (rain, snow, hail, sleet, fog), as this can, for example, prevent false alarms originating from leak sensors inside a module and / or component used to monitor media flows.

[0049] According to an exemplary embodiment, the enclosure is designed to correspond to the dimensions of a sea (freight) container, and in particular is a sea freight container, preferably in one of the standard sizes of 20-foot, 40-foot, and / or 45-foot according to ISO 668. It has surprisingly been found to be particularly advantageous if the enclosure corresponds to the dimensions of a sea (freight) container, or in particular is a sea freight container, preferably in the standard sizes of 20, 40, and / or 45 feet. This offers the following advantages: 1) The aforementioned specific requirements for pellet production can be implemented relatively well with regard to both size and technical requirements concerning vibration behavior and other details. 2) The large mass of such containers has a dampening effect on natural resonant frequencies.3) Standard shipping containers have an internal support frame that corresponds to the basic system and can perform its functions. 4) Transport is easy (because it is standardized), and installation is simple. 5) Measures regarding access control, odor control, noise reduction, dust control, and visual privacy are also easily implemented. 6) The load-bearing capacity of the walls is high, which simplifies the installation of soundproofing mats and ventilation ducts. 7) The load-bearing capacity of the ceiling is very high, thus resolving any snow load issues. 8) Several containers can be easily connected with twistlocks if the space required for a module is larger than the standard size of a container. 9) A container offers very good visual screening of biomass streams, which are not considered pleasant by everyone, and the exterior appearance of a container can be, for example,This can be improved by welded-on steel mesh panels, which are planted with fast-growing climbing plants and thus provide additional sound insulation.

[0050] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one enclosure has sound-insulating properties. In particular, the outward-penetrating sound can be reduced by more than 3 dB, more particularly more than 6 dB, preferably more than 10 dB. If the system for producing fuel from pressed biomass is located in a noise-sensitive zone, the enclosure of the modules according to the invention is particularly advantageous: With a reasonably well-sealed design, a sound insulation of 3 to 6 dB is already achieved. By means of additional measures (e.g., installation of sound-insulating mats, vibration-reducing fixings between the technology and the base system, etc.), the outward-penetrating sound can be reduced by more than 10 dB.The effectiveness of noise reduction is largely determined by the sound insulation (weight) of the enclosure, the decoupling of the enclosure from the noise source, and the absorption coefficient of the sound-absorbing lining inside the module. A noise source enclosed by a housing is amplified by reflections from the enclosure. To prevent the openings in the enclosure, for material flow, ventilation, etc., from emitting this increased noise, the enclosure can be lined with sound-absorbing material. It is advantageous if this material is matched to the frequency range of the noise source. According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one enclosure is designed such that there is an internal flow of media (in particular, an airflow, which is either guided through ducts or where the entire enclosure is used as a flow zone) that can absorb process waste heat.The process waste heat is preferably used for heat recovery and / or odor reduction (for example, by means of odor filters containing activated carbon). According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one enclosure is designed to reduce odor emissions. In particular, the majority of the enclosures can be designed to reduce odor emissions and / or incorporate filter elements containing carbon. If the entire enclosure is subjected to airflow, it is advantageous to generate a controlled overpressure (in a blowing system) or underpressure (in a suction system) relative to the ambient atmospheric pressure, as this allows for a defined airflow. A suction system is particularly suitable for odor reduction because any leaks in the enclosure do not have a negative impact.According to an exemplary embodiment, a pressure difference exists in an enclosure compared to the ambient atmospheric pressure. In particular, the pressure difference can be more than 20 Pascals, more particularly more than 50 Pascals, preferably more than 100 Pascals.

[0051] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one enclosure is designed to provide protection against vandalism. In particular, the enclosure can be designed so that the space between the modules and the external environment can be fitted with protective grilles on at least one side, preferably with these grilles being attached to the modules. It has been shown that a robust construction of the enclosure is also particularly well-suited for attaching additional barriers between the modules. Since such a system is typically installed in public spaces, increased property damage or vandalism must be expected. A correspondingly robust construction (e.g., a shipping container) not only provides sufficient mass for sound and vibration damping but also offers suitable protection against external mechanical impacts.The use of containers makes it particularly easy to attach barriers to the walls, which then seal off the spaces between the modules. Especially when these are arranged to form an (inner) area, this area can be secured with protective grilles.

[0052] According to an exemplary embodiment, one module is arranged at an elevation relative to the installation site and / or another module. In particular, several modules can be arranged at an elevation relative to the installation site and / or another module. The elevated arrangement is preferably such that a gravity-assisted (gravity-based) flow of a medium is enabled. It has proven advantageous if the modules are placed at an elevation relative to the ground (for example, by means of bases, supports, the chassis of a container, etc.). This saves pumping energy for liquid media: Fresh water is required for the system according to the invention. Since this is delivered under (significant overpressure, relative to the pressure-related elevation of the module relative to the ground) overpressure anyway, no pumping power is required for the potential energy difference resulting from the elevation relative to the ground.For produced liquid media and wastewater, this height difference is relevant because it allows gravity to be used fully or partially for dewatering, drainage, and transfer, thus reducing the overall pumping power required. This elevation can affect one or more modules, and the elevation can vary for each module. According to one exemplary embodiment, the shredding unit is arranged (housed) in a module together with another component, and / or the biomass is excited by a vibration system. In particular, vibrations from machines or components can be used for the process. For example, the fine shredding unit (mulcher) can be housed in the same module as a mechanical dewatering unit, especially the first one.Through appropriate couplings within the module, vibrations (directly mechanical or via the air) can be transmitted to the biomass, thereby improving its mixing (similar to an agitator) and thus increasing the separation of foreign matter and / or salts. Alternatively, an auxiliary system can be installed before or after the fine grinding stage to transmit vibrations to the biomass. Because the components are housed in a module separate from the washing and drying units, the induced vibrations are essentially limited to this stage of the fuel production process.

[0053] According to an exemplary embodiment, the modules are leveled horizontally (in the x and y directions). In particular, the modules have leveling aids. The leveling is preferably supported or monitored by electromechanical components. It has proven advantageous if the modules are leveled in the horizontal plane. This allows, for example, fluid levels in components to be set without a height reserve due to inclined installation, thereby reducing resources (e.g., less energy is required for heating because with only a minimal level reserve, there is less material to heat). It has also proven advantageous if a module has leveling aids (e.g., adjusting devices, fixed spirit levels preset on the surface, sensors, etc.).Furthermore, it is helpful if this leveling is supported or monitored by electromechanical components and / or if this leveling can be carried out in the x and y directions.

[0054] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one enclosure has a sensor configured to detect deviations from normal operation and, if necessary, signal them externally. In particular, the sensor can detect rotational speed, vibration, temperature, pressure, gas content, sound level, suspended solids, and / or liquid accumulation. The sensor can be integrated into the component located within the enclosure. In this embodiment, the sensor utilizes the isolation from external influences on measured values ​​achieved through modularization. For example, it is advantageous for a leakage sensor if a detected leak is implicitly (i.e., structurally limited by the insulating properties of a modular design) confined to the components installed in the module, which makes troubleshooting significantly easier than if the entire floor of a building were flooded.Besides this striking example, the modular design also aids in fault isolation for sensors that detect rotational speed, vibration, temperature, pressure, gas content, sound level, suspended particles, and / or liquid accumulation when deviations from normal operation occur. This also applies when the sensor is integrated into the subsystems installed within the module, because the modular design then limits external interference. In particular, the modular design allows for faster and more localized detection and response to noticeable trends in sensor readings, which is especially valuable for preventive maintenance.

[0055] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one enclosure is designed to substantially reduce, and in particular limit, the passage of dust. Additionally or alternatively, at least one enclosure can be designed to reduce dust settling on it. It has proven advantageous if the exemplary modules are designed to substantially limit the passage of dust. This allows more sensitive subsystems to be protected from external environmental influences and / or, in the case of dust-generating components (for example, in the drying unit), to achieve (possibly additional) dust reduction from the environment. It is helpful if particularly exposed surfaces inside the module are designed to reduce dust adhesion (for example, an antistatic treatment).

[0056] According to one exemplary embodiment, modules are interconnected. In particular, modules can be stacked vertically. This has the advantage of requiring less space at the installation site. By achieving vibration damping at the interface between the mounting system and the outer shell of the modules, stacked modules minimize interference, resulting in a positive overall vibration and noise performance. Furthermore, the vertical positioning of the modules facilitates the use of gravimetric conveying, thereby reducing energy consumption.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, at least one module is sealed against escaping liquids from the component arranged therein, such that these cannot escape into the environment. In particular, the module can include a containment basin, the capacity of which is preferably sufficient for the quantity of a hazardous substance present in the module. This allows for a double-walled construction or one with a second inner liner, as is commonly required for heating oil tanks. This has the advantage of containing hazardous substances such as corresponding operating materials or biomaterials, which is achieved by the modular system according to the invention in the form of a double wall.It is therefore advantageous if a module is sealed against escaping liquids from subsystems and / or components in such a way that these cannot escape into the environment, in particular if the module includes a containment function, preferably if the capacity of this containment function is sufficient for the quantity of a problematic substance present in the module.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, the mechanical dewatering device is a multi-stage dewatering device or comprises several dewatering devices. In particular, the different dewatering devices can be configured such that different shear forces act on the biomass. The different dewatering devices can also be configured such that the wastewater compositions differ from one another. In a multi-stage dewatering process with different dewatering systems designed to exert different shear forces on the biomass, different degrees of cell disruption of the biomass can be achieved, resulting, for example, in wastewater from the two dewatering systems exhibiting different protein concentrations and levels of contaminants.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises a heat recovery device. The heat recovery device can be configured, in particular, to warm the biomass and / or process water. Preferably, the heat recovery device is configured to support the drying and / or dewatering process. For example, the heat recovery device can be configured to conserve the energy introduced by dewatering in the biomass (storage and / or transport for drying is usually thermally insulated), thus providing preheated biomass for drying that does not need to be heated further by this preheating temperature. Numerous other heat recovery options within the system are possible.For example, the heat from the wastewater heated by the pressing energy can be recovered from the dewatering process.

[0060] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system further comprises one or more storage units configured to store biomass, at least partially, under mechanical pressure for at least one day. This can increase the homogeneity of the biomass used, particularly with regard to moisture distribution and / or the degree of microbial decomposition.

[0061] According to an exemplary embodiment, the system is designed to produce a fuel output from pressed biomass of more than 50 kg / h, in particular more than 150 kg / h, preferably more than 500 kg / h. It has been shown that the solution according to the invention is particularly advantageous in industrial production with higher material throughput, because with high material throughput the components become mechanically larger, often exacerbating the problems of resonance, noise emission, and odor nuisance.

[0062] According to an exemplary embodiment, the modules (or at least a part of them) are designed to be insulated, in particular thermally insulated.

[0063] Preferably, the modules are insulated in such a way that water-carrying components do not freeze in winter (even if operation is interrupted for hours or days) due to outside cold.

[0064] A system according to the invention for producing fuel from compressed biomass can be used, in particular, in a process for producing fuel from compressed biomass according to the second aspect explained in more detail below. In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a process for producing fuel from compressed biomass using a system according to the first aspect explained in more detail above. Descriptions of features already given above in connection with the first aspect apply analogously to the same or similar features in connection with the second aspect, even if they are not explicitly repeated.

[0065] The steps of washing, comminution, in particular fine comminution, mechanical dewatering, drying and shaping (including compaction) can in principle be carried out in an analogous manner as in the literature mentioned at the beginning.

[0066] According to an exemplary embodiment, the biomass is moistened before mechanical dewatering, particularly before washing. It can be especially advantageous if the time interval between moistening and mechanical dewatering is at least 10 minutes, particularly at least 30 minutes, particularly at least 2 hours, and particularly at least 6 hours. This time interval can also be referred to as the moistening exposure time. Such a procedure allows, for example, the dissolution (or partial dissolution) of salts in addition to the actual washing process. In particular, the dissolution process of salts is also relatively slow, meaning that the throughput through the washing unit is limited by the dissolution time of the salts.If this humidification is carried out more than 10 minutes, more than 30 minutes, more than 2 hours or even more than 6 hours before washing, different contaminants can dissolve and the removal of contaminants is optimized.

[0067] According to one exemplary embodiment, a biomass is used which (before washing) has been stored under mechanical pressure for at least one day, at least partially. This can increase the homogeneity of the biomass used, particularly with regard to moisture distribution and / or the degree of microbial decomposition.

[0068] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a computer-readable medium on which a computer program is stored, wherein the computer program is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a system and / or a method for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to the first or second aspect.

[0069] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a program element which is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a system and / or a method for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to the first or second aspect.

[0070] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE IMAGES

[0071] Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a system 100 for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] System 100 for producing fuel from pressed biomass comprises a washing unit 110, a comminution unit 120, which may in particular be a fine comminution unit, a mechanical dewatering unit 130, a thermal drying unit 140, and a shaping unit 150. These components may, in principle, be those described in the literature mentioned above.

[0073] In the system 100 shown in Figure 1 for producing fuel from pressed biomass, each of the aforementioned components is individually arranged in a module 160, so that each component is surrounded by an enclosure 162. In particular, the washing unit 110 and the thermal drying unit 140 are arranged in different modules 160, and the mechanical dewatering unit 130 and the thermal drying unit 140 are also arranged in different modules 160. This allows for different microclimates with respect to humidity between the washing unit 110 and the thermal drying unit 140, as well as different thermal microclimates between the mechanical dewatering unit 130 and the thermal drying unit 140, which in both cases leads to energy optimization.

[0074] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of a system 100 for producing fuel from pressed biomass according to a further exemplary embodiment.

[0075] In the system 100 shown in Figure 2 for producing fuel from pressed biomass, the washing unit 110 and the shredding unit 120 are arranged in a single module 160, unlike the system 100 shown in Figure 1. These two components are enclosed by a common housing 162. This allows vibrations generated by the washing unit 110 to be used for the shredding process. Furthermore, there are two mechanical dewatering units 130a and 130b, which are also arranged in a single module 160, so that these two components are also enclosed by a common housing 162. This reduces heat losses due to cooling of the biomass during heat recovery and / or reduces the need for thermal insulation (because heat is conserved within the module 160).Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a module 160 according to an exemplary embodiment. The enclosure of the module 160 comprises a base system 164 and a casing 166. Inside the enclosure, a component of the system is arranged; in the case shown in Figure 3, a thermal drying device 140 is shown as an example.

[0076] Figure 4 is a schematic top view of a system 100 for producing fuel from compressed biomass according to a further exemplary embodiment. The modules 160 are arranged such that their longitudinal axis deviates from a straight line. In particular, the modules 160 are arranged to form an inner surface suitable for work, maintenance, and / or material storage. This allows for a damping effect on vibrations and their propagation.

[0077] The present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments and examples. However, the invention is not limited to these, and various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0078] List of references

[0079] 100 Systems for producing fuel from pressed biomass

[0080] 110 Washing unit 120 Shredding unit

[0081] 130, 130a, 130b mechanical drainage device

[0082] 140 thermal drying equipment

[0083] 150 shaping equipment

[0084] 160 Module 162 Enclosure device

[0085] 164 Basic system

[0086] 166 Envelope

Claims

REQUIREMENTS 1. System (100) for producing fuel from pressed biomass, wherein the system (100) comprises at least the following components: a washing unit (110), a comminution device (120), a mechanical dewatering device (130), a thermal drying device (140) and a shaping device (150), wherein the system (100) and / or the components of the system is / are divided into modules (160), wherein each module (160) is surrounded by an enclosure device (162), wherein the washing unit (110) and the thermal drying device (140) are arranged in different modules (160), and wherein the mechanical dewatering device (130) and the thermal drying device (140) are arranged in different modules (160).

2. System (100) according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure device (162) comprises a base system (164) and an enclosure (166).

3. System (100) according to claim 2, wherein the natural resonant frequency between the base system (164) of the enclosure (162) of a module (160) and the component arranged in the module (160) differs from the natural resonant frequency between the base system (164) and the substrate on which the enclosure (162) of the module (160) is located, in particular wherein the base system (164) additionally has vibration-damping properties and / or vibration-damping means vis-à-vis the substrate and / or the component arranged in the module (160) exhibits vibration-damping properties and / or vibration-damping means compared to the basic system (164).

4. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein two or more modules (160) have different weights, in particular wherein the weight of one module (160) differs from a multiple of the weight of another module (160).

5. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the washing unit (110), the mechanical dewatering device (130) and / or the comminution device (120) are arranged in different modules (160), in particular wherein the washing unit (110) and the mechanical dewatering device (130) are arranged in different modules (160).

6. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (100) comprises several mechanical drainage devices (130, 130a, 130b), these preferably being arranged in the same module (160).

7. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the modules (160) are arranged such that their longitudinal line deviates from a straight line, in particular wherein the modules (160) are arranged such that they span an area, wherein preferably this area is designed to be suitable for work, maintenance and / or material storage.

8. System (100) according to claim 7, wherein the inner surface spanned by the modules (160) is equipped with a locking mechanism.

9. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein connections between the modules (160) are vibration-damping exhibiting properties, in particular mechanical connections and / or media lines, wherein these connections are preferably detachable.

10. System (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the enclosure devices (162) are designed such that the mechanical resonance of the enclosure (166) and / or the internal resonance of the air body within the enclosure (166) deviates from the vibration frequency of the main emission of the component located therein, in particular wherein the mechanical resonance of the enclosure (166) and / or the internal resonance of the air body within the enclosure (166) also deviates from the vibration frequency of secondary emissions of the component located therein.

11. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one enclosure (162) has vibration-damping properties, in particular is equipped to dampen vibrations and / or vibrations, in particular wherein this vibration damping relates to the enclosure (166) and / or the weight transfer to the ground, wherein this vibration damping preferably occurs with respect to sound waves.

12. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the component arranged in an enclosure (162) is connected to this enclosure (162) and the enclosure (162) in turn has a connection to the substrate, in particular wherein the weight of the component is first transferred to the enclosure (162) and this in turn transfers the total weight to the substrate.

13. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the enclosure device (162) of a module (160) is designed such that the The contents are protected against damage from small animals, in particular in such a way as to prevent access by small animals to the interior of the module (160).

14. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the enclosure device (162) is designed to have a load-bearing capacity of more than 1.1 kN / m². 2 , especially more than 3.8 kN / m 2 , preferably more than 5 kN / m2.

15. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the enclosure device (162) is designed to reduce and / or prevent the ingress of liquid from the outside.

16. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the enclosure device (162) is designed to correspond to the dimensions of a sea container, in particular a sea freight container, preferably in one of the standard sizes 20-foot, 40-foot and / or 45-foot, in particular substantially in accordance with ISO 668.

17. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one enclosure device (162) has a sound-insulating property, in particular reducing the outward-penetrating sound by more than 3 dB, in particular more than 6 dB, preferably more than 10 dB.

18. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one enclosure device (162) is designed such that there is a media flow, in particular an air flow, inside which can absorb process waste heat, wherein the process waste heat is preferably used for heat recovery and / or odor reduction.

19. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in an enclosure device (162) a pressure difference to atmospheric external pressure exists, in particular where the pressure difference is more than 20 Pascals, in particular more than 50 Pascals, preferably more than 100 Pascals.

20. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one enclosure device (162) is designed to reduce odor emissions, in particular wherein the majority of the enclosure devices (162) are designed to reduce odor emissions and / or have filter elements containing carbon.

21. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one enclosure device (162) is designed to provide protection against vandalism, in particular to allow the installation of a protective grille.

22. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a module (160) is arranged elevated relative to the installation location and / or another module (160), in particular wherein several modules (160) are arranged elevated relative to the installation location and / or another module (160), wherein preferably the elevated arrangement is such that a gravity-assisted flow of a medium is enabled.

23. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the comminution device (120) is arranged together with another component in a module (160) and / or the biomass is excited by a vibration system.

24. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the modules (160) are leveled in the horizontal plane, in particular having leveling aids, wherein the leveling is preferably supported or monitored by means of electromechanical components.

25. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one enclosure (162) has a sensor configured to detect deviations from normal operation and, if necessary, to signal them externally, in particular wherein the sensor detects rotational speed, vibration, temperature, pressure, gas content, sound level, particulate matter presence and / or liquid accumulation, in particular wherein the sensor is integrated in the component arranged in the enclosure (162).

26. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one enclosure device (162) is designed to substantially reduce, in particular limit, the passage of dusts, and / or is designed to reduce the amount of dusts settling on it.

27. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein modules (160) are connected to each other, in particular arranged one above the other.

28. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one module (160) is sealed against escaping liquids from the component arranged therein in such a way that these do not escape into the environment, in particular wherein the module (160) includes a trough function, wherein preferably the holding capacity of the trough function is sufficient for the quantity of a problematic substance present in the module (160).

29. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical drainage device (130) is a multi-stage drainage device (130) or comprises several drainage devices (130, 130a, 130b), in particular wherein the shear forces acting on the biomass of the different drainage facility stages or the different drainage facilities (130) differ from each other, preferably that the wastewater compositions of the different drainage facility stages or the different drainage facilities (130, 130a, 130b) differ from each other.

30. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (100) further comprises a heat recovery device, in particular wherein the heat recovery device is configured to lead to the heating of the biomass and / or process water, wherein the heat recovery device is preferably configured to support the drying and / or dewatering process.

31. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (100) further comprises one or more storage units configured to store biomass at least partially under mechanical pressure for at least one day.

32. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system (100) is designed to have a production quantity of fuel from pressed biomass of more than 50 kg / h, in particular more than 150 kg / h, preferably more than 500 kg / h.

33. System (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the modules (160) are designed to be insulated, in particular thermally insulated, preferably in such a way that no freezing of water-carrying components occurs in winter.

34. A method for producing fuel from pressed biomass using a system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises: Washing of biomass in the washing unit (110); Crushing, in particular fine crushing, of the biomass in the crushing device (120); Mechanical dewatering of the biomass in the mechanical dewatering device (130); Thermal drying of the biomass in the thermal drying facility (140); Shaping of the biomass in the shaping device (150).

35. Method according to claim 34, wherein the biomass is moistened before mechanical dewatering, in particular wherein the time interval between moistening and mechanical dewatering is at least 10 minutes, in particular at least 30 minutes, in particular at least 2 hours, in particular at least 6 hours.

36. Method according to claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the biomass was stored at least partially under mechanical pressure for at least one day.

37. Computer-readable medium on which a computer program is stored, wherein the computer program is configured such that, when executed on a processor, it controls and / or regulates a method according to any one of claims 34 to 36 and / or a system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 33.

38. Program element which, when executed on a processor, controls and / or regulates a method according to any one of claims 34 to 36 and / or a system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 33.

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