None of the information contained herein is warrantied. Methods and process should not be undertaken without conducting your own empirical trials. The following information is presented in the interest of sharing lessons learned and striving toward industry standardization. The goal for bulk wood pellet handling and transfer is to minimize “fines” (broken pellets.)
– Plan so as to minimize the number of times the pellets need to be handled between the pellet mill and final storage.
– Encourage the use of fully-pneumatic transfer.
– Avoid:
- Mechanical air lock systems
- Grain augers
- Bucket conveyors
- etc.
– Systems must be fully-grounded and static dissipative to avoid the risk of static dust explosion.
– Typical pneumatic delivery lengths are limited to > 75’ horizontal, and > 30’ vertical. (Including truck hose and indoor pipe length combined)
– Typical delivery hoses and connections are 4” diameter.
– Outside connectors for pneumatic delivery should be located for easy access from driveways, and should avoid areas prone to snow-shed from rooflines.
– Most bulk wood pellet delivery requires physical access to the bin prior to loading. Inspection of bin prior to loading is recommended and should include connections, superstructure, and the manual feed opening.
– Operating pressure for pneumatic delivery systems should be designed for > one (1) ATM, (14.7 psi)
– Transfer rates should be designed for less than 10 minutes per ton.
– For pneumatic Wood Pellet Handling and Transfer – see also: the Venturi Effect
– Parts for wood pellet handling and transfer are most often found in grain conveyance.
– Find bulk deliver trucks through Vermont Renewable Fuels.