There are a variety of different fuel types that are compatible with incinerators. But which achieves the most effective burn rate; which is best for the environment; which is cheapest to buy; and which is most suitable for your location?
Fuel types suitable for use in incinerators
Incineration requires fuel to get the combustion chamber up to operating temperature before waste is loaded. In many cases once waste is loaded this contains enough calorific value to act as a fuel sources once the system has been ignited.
Natural gas
Natural gas is a versatile, efficient fuel available in more developed countries around the world, typically for use in cars or in the kitchen, producing heat for stoves. It can be cooled to a liquid for use in locations without gas infrastructure in place. It’s also used for many industrial processes that produce materials and goods, and is used within the production of plastics. It’s scentless, colourless and tasteless, and is considered one of the cleanest fossil fuel energy sources.
Biofuel
Biofuel is a renewable, clean fuel made from vegetable oil or animal fats with its glycerol removed. It produces fewer greenhouse gases than traditional fossil fuels like petrol. It is domestically produced, so is used by countries around the world to reduce their dependence on foreign oil. As well as being used for generating energy, it’s also used as a lubricant in lots of industrial practices. It’s also biodegradable and non-toxic.
Diesel
Most used as fuel for vehicles, diesel offers an efficient fuel solution for incineration. It generates more power from less fuel because it has a higher compression rating. It has lower taxes than alternative fuel sources and offers a lower fire hazard. It also delivers a more complete burn rate, meaning it pollutes less than the likes of petroleum.
Different fuel uses around the world
The type of fuel that best suits your incinerator might depend on your location. For example, remote locations such as deserts or jungles won’t have access to a natural gas supply, while biofuel will be hard to come by. As such, diesel is the only option available. Similarly, mining and gas exploration camps will also rely on diesel to fuel the incinerators required to manage their waste.
In areas of Eastern Europe and Russia, there is more widespread natural gas infrastructure making it a popular choice for use in incinerators. Meanwhile, biofuel is only available in countries with existing biofuel policies in place, such as across Western Europe, India and places across the Far East, including Cambodia.
Fuel consumption of incinerators
Consumption Our guide on fuel consumption for each incinerator is based on diesel with a density of 850 kg/m³ measured at 15.5°C (59.9°F or 288.65K) at standard atmospheric pressure. As such, consumption levels would vary depending on the fuel you use in your incinerator.
If you need any more information in regards which fuel would be most suited for your incinerator then please contact our experts on 0044 1704 884020 and we will happily discuss your requirements and provide a full breakdown of your options.