The cartridge and the lines leading to it are externally heated. Data collection and process control are achieved with a Genesis process control software package. Sixty-two data points are stored on disk every 30 seconds and are updated on the screen every 2 seconds. The data are stored in a Lotus format that can be downloaded or replayed graphically using the Genesis software. Material can be delivered either by truck or railcar.
Solid feedstock is prepared to the desired specifications and stored in nitrogen-purged bunkers.
The objective of drying the feed material is to reduce or eliminate the net production of wastewater, reduce the heat load of the feed, or reduce feed problems that are inherent with excess surface moisture. The carbonizer and TRDU share a common coal feed system. Solids enter the system in a nonpressurized hopper with a capacity of 2500 lb. The coal is gravity-fed into two pressurized coal lock hoppers, which have a capacity of 1700 lb. A set of valves isolates the pressurized lock hoppers from an auger at the bottom of the pressurized feed hopper which meters the solids.