Biomass Boiler Performance Evaluation Study

Project Description: 

This project seeks to examine performance of wood-fired hydronic boiler systems in three different Alaskan communities.  Performance of the boilers has been monitored using an energy metering system comprised of an inline flow meter, and two temperature sensors, one on the hot water supply side and the other on the return side. By tracking the water flow rate and the temperature at both sides, the amount of heat input to the water can be obtained. By correlating this against wood consumption and wood moisture content, a rough measure of boiler efficiency may be obtained.  Additionally, an emissions probe will be brought to each site during an extremely cold time and during a moderately cold time.  During these visits, stack emissions will be measured.

Project Update: 

Daisy Huang traveled to Gulkana this week in a final visit to collect data from the Btu meter installed on a biomass boiler system comprised of two Garn boilers connected in series.  In two weeks Daisy will also visit Tanana to collect additional boiler system data. 

The Biomass Boiler Performance Evaluation Study report will be available  in a few months.

Project Lead:  Daisy Huang
Project Funding:  Alaska Energy Authority (AEA)
Project Research Partners:  City of Tanana, Gulkana Village Council, Delta Greely School District

Photo: Daisy Huang shown collecting boiler data in Gulkana last December.  Photo courtesy of DHuang, ACEP/UAF.