Prediction of ash deposition in a biomass boiler using thermomechanical analysis.

[Display omitted] Retrofitting biomass boilers is a promising strategy for use in generating electricity while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, biomass ash deposition on the wall evaporators, platens, and superheaters during operation requires further investigation to ensure their safeties. Herein, a thermomechanical analysis (TMA) method is proposed, and a simulation is conducted using computational fluid dynamics to predict the biomass deposition rates in a biomass boiler. A chemical analysis of biomass ash and a curve fitting of TMA shrinkage are performed and a drop-tube furnace is used to validate the models. Four case studies are based on burner standby systems, and high deposition rates are observed on the wall furnace and hopper and platen superheater. The simulation results are consistent with the experimental results, and the wall furnace and platen superheater exhibited the highest levels of deposition of 1.4–1.6 kg/(m²·h). This method provides a foundation for predicting the locations and rates of deposition in boilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]