Effect of Plate Modifications on Combustion and Efficiency of Biomass Fuels in Furnace Systems

Abstract

The global demand for renewable energy highlights biomass as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. In Southeast Asia, palm-based residues palm kernel shells, oil palm fronds, and empty fruit bunches offer abundant resources with high energy potential. However, their combustion efficiency is often limited by furnace design. This study investigates the effect of plate modifications (two-way, three-way, and four-way) on combustion performance in furnace systems. Experiments assessed heat release rate, thermal efficiency, and combustion furnace efficiency under different configurations. Results showed that modified plates improved combustion stability compared to standard designs. The three-way modification yielded the highest heat release rate of 440 W/m, while the four-way modification provided the most stable output, maintaining over 300 W/m for longer durations. Thermal efficiency tests revealed palm kernel shell achieved 92% at T1 in Experiment-02, oil palm fronds reached 95% at T1 in Experiment-03, and empty fruit bunches, though starting lower, demonstrated superior long-term stability with 74% at T4 in Experiment-03. Furnace efficiency showed a similar pattern: palm kernel shell reached 74%, oil palm fronds 71%, while empty fruit bunches remained lower at 40% at T4. The novelty of this research lies in integrating chamber design with comparative fuel analysis, demonstrating that plate modifications directly enhance efficiency and stability. In conclusion, palm kernel shell is optimal for high initial efficiency, oil palm fronds for rapid energy release, and empty fruit bunches for sustained combustion, providing practical insights for biomass utilization in renewable energy systems.