SLSD Biochar Processor

Biochar Systems - SLSD - or- Side Load Side Draft: This unique little prototype may be the next simplest biochar processor that seems to be scalable with little technical modification. This statement has yet to be validated as of June 24, 2010. Really the ideal configuration of this design might better be called SLnoDfX but "slnod" is such a neat name that I bet it will stick (but what do I know?).

This device comes from an idea offered in the NEUSA by Dr. Hugh McLaughlin. Hugh formed a version of the TLUD stationary cooking and space heating device (if he did not invent it originally?). My engineer friend Robert Essert has modified the TLUD design to lie on its side and incorporate a simple feed system and char collection area with a control mechanism to keep the pyrolysis zone in about the right place. He presented the design at the last meeting of the Pioneer Valley Biochar Initiative on Tuesday, June 22, 2010.

The pyrolysis zone is the area in red/orange in the design as shown in the SLSD pictuer above and the attachment below. The feed system is controlled by a thermal switch located near the end of the feed auger. Please honor the CC release on this site by crediting Bob Essert in any implementation of this design.

We will be experimenting with simple scale ups of this in the near future. It would seem that this could be run by hand if there were no power alternatives available. Details will be added as more experience is gained. You can add comments to this page to let Bob know how you are doing with your tests.

A brief discussion of "SLnoD": the unit is mounted horizontally and the feed stock flows from one side (thus the "SL" for side load) and the unheated material proceeds from the feed area into the pyrolysis region from the force of the auger pushing it forward. Once the tube is full to the char release area with unignited feedstock it is lighted by whatever means is convenient. One way that works on this size device is to just lift it up a little and drip some candle wax on the exposed end and lighting it. one could also start the charge with a small amount of alcohol mixed with the initial feed stock and lighting it when it is near the drop off point. The "noD" part of the name comes from the understanding that the most char will be produced when the charring is done only with the oxygen that comes in with or as part of the feed stock (thus the "noD" for no Draft), the additional "fX" might stand for front exhaust.

It will be neat to see this system combined with Frank Jeffers cracking system so that the gas comes out clean and usable directly in a variety of producer or water gas compatible systems.

The next scale up will probably involve cascading these systems to be able to handle wet material - we are not there yet.


SLSD Biochar Processor.pdf - on Jun 24, 2010 12:16 PM by Alan Page (version 1) 
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