Large-scale peat feed preparation

Data collected during an operating period which processed over 2000 tons of as-received Minnesota peat have shown that peat can be dried, screened and finely ground in a reliable and safe manner. Moisture reduction to as low as 5 wt % can be obtained in properly designed systems without chemical degradation of the product. Some reduction in the size distribution of the Minnesota peat did occur during the drying operation. In addition, the moisture content of the product is not completely homogeneous. Moisture content does vary with particle size, however, chemical composition does not vary significantly with particle size. These findings were subsequently used in evaluating process and equipment requirements for downstream operations in the gasification pilot plant. Segregation, for instance, of the product peat was discouraged in order to ensure uniform levels of moisture in the feed to the gasifier. 4 references, 4 figures, 5 tables.