Determining Pelleting Parameters For Orange Pruning Residues

Abstract

This study evaluates the pelleting parameters of fuel pellets made from orange tree pruning residues. Physical-mechanical and thermal properties of pellets were studied and their suitability were checked according to latest EU standards. The pruning residues collected from orange orchards were first prechopped and then sun dried at outside conditions till the desired moisture content M10 (8-10%) is achieved. Then the material grinded with varying particle sizes (PS: 4, 6 and 8 mm) to produce pellets. Pruning residues from fruit orchards are a good solution to generate alternative energy sources. Orange cultivation is very popular worldwide so the unused pruning residues of the trees must be utilized for energy in today's energy based world. Some physical-mechanical properties such as; pellet particle density, bulk density, mechanical duration, firmness, pellet moisture content and some thermal properties such as; lower heating value, ash content and flue gas emissions of the produced pellets were analyzed. Results showed us that the pruning residues of orange trees were suitable both in technical and environmental aspects for energy utilization.