Multi-stage energy analysis of steam explosion process

Owing to the deficiency of investigating steam explosion on energy utilization, in this study, we analyze the heat transfer mechanism and energy consumption of steam explosion process. Based on years of research, we propose that energy consumption of steam explosion not only involves holding pressure and instantaneous decompression stages but also the upward stage of pressure. On this basis, a multi-stage heat transfer model of steam explosion process integrating technical features is established. Results reveal the significance of pressure boost stage which contributes the vast majority of total energy consumption. The amount of steam consumption per unit mass of dry materials m' is presented to quantitatively evaluate the energy consumption under various factors, in which initial moisture content is considered as the most important factor. Several rational operational strategies for improving energy efficiency are proposed including controlling low moisture content of materials (< 40%), adopting low-temperature and long-time parameters as well as properly reducing particle size. Such representations not only contribute to utilization of energy but considerably facilitate optimization, simulation, design and control of steam explosion process, consequently improving the large-scale deployment of steam explosion technology. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.