Bulk Storage Effects on the Fuel Potential of Sawmill Residues

Three residue piles (mixed hardwood bark, pine bark, and mixed hardwood and pine sawdust) were monitored for changes in internal temperature, MC, pH, and heat of combustion during 5 months of outside storage. The effects that pile geometry, residue types, and method of stacking had on the fuel potential of the residues was evaluated. Temperatures were relatively steady for 5 months varying from about 130?F for sawdust to about 190?F for the pine bark. All piles became more acidic. The internal regions of conically shaped piles containing the more hydrophobic pine bark dried from 80 to 30 percent NC in less than 1 month. Sawdust dries much more slowly. The heat values (0 percent NC basis) of all residues increased by about 5 to 7 percent. Long term outside storage of bark residues to be used as fuel is feasible and, in light of the drying that occurs and the changes in heats of combustion, it may be very practical.

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