Pellets are a standardized biofuel made from sawdust and planer shavings generated by the wood-processing industry. Through drying and compression, the raw material is transformed into a compact fuel that is easy to store and transport. The consistent fuel properties of pellets provide predictable conditions for combustion and energy production.
Fire-damaged pellets still have energy value
- Article
In October, a fire at SCA’s pellet plant in Härnösand damaged large volumes of pellets. The material is now being repurposed to generate energy, heat, and electricity as sawdust.
Pellets turned back into sawdust
After the fire and the extensive firefighting efforts, much of the pellet stock had broken down into sawdust. Pellets absorb large amounts of water and disintegrate when saturated.
Still a valuable biofuel
Although the wet sawdust has a lower energy content than pellets, it remains a useful biofuel. The material is now being used to generate heat and electricity at several of SCA’s customer heating plants.
Pellet supply remains strong
“It was a significant volume, equivalent to our annual production record. However, it represented just over two weeks of production,” says Johan Stark, Operations Manager, Production at SCA Bionorr.
Pellets being sprayed with water during firefighting efforts.
Water-soaked pellets beginning to break down into sawdust.
Pellets being sprayed with water during firefighting efforts.
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