Pyrolysis Method A simple unit has been developed for generation of pyrolysis gas and ail (see figure (left)). A 4-in. diameter stainless steel pipe is used as the reactor. A6V4 in. diameter,'I2 in. thick flange is welded toone end. A6-in. diameter plate is halted to the flange with an asbestos gasket between the flange and plate. The other end of the reactor is closed by welding a 6Y-in. diameter, L/2-in.thick plate to the pipe. Both end plates are fitted with %-in. stainless steel tube fittings. The reactor is heated using a large muffle furnace. We use a Thermolyne Model No. CP-7300 with a 10 in. X 11 in. X 16 in. chamber. The case of the furnace has heen grounded t o prevent electrical shock. The top heating element has been removed and holes have been drilled through the ease and insulation brick to allow for outside connections (see figure (right)).
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Stainless steel tubing isused toremove the pyrolysis gasand oil from thereactor and to introduce any desired gas into the reactor. A pressure relief valve on the inlet side is a safety measure to allow release of gas, if the outlet becomes plugged. If pyrolysis oil or other products are t o he collected, a condenser can be attached to the outlet tubing. Wood and waste products have been pyrolyzed using this unit. Pyrolysis oil and gases have been collected and analyzed. Weyerhaeuser Company Longview, Washington 98632
Michael A. Karnofski Richard Rsinone
Volume 55, Number 7,July 1978 / 475
