Optimization of the combustion of SOME (soybean oil methyl ester), B5, B10, B20 and petrodiesel in a semi industrial boiler

This paper characterizes combustion of petrodiesel and prevalent SOME blends (B100, B5, B10 and B20), which were produced through an alkali-based transesterification in PUT, in a semi industrial boiler by determining its efficiency, exhaust emissions and costs. First, the influence of oxygen content of stock gases (by volume percent) upon regular emissions, thermal efficiency and costs (calculated by a cost function) was studied in order to investigate the performance and feasibility of using biodiesel in the boiler. In the next level, a multi-objective optimization method, named cost-based optimization, was represented and optimized the combustion of the fuels.The overall efficiency of the boiler obtained with the different fuels is comparable for the same operating points. Soy bean methyl ester and the blends emitted lower emissions than petrodiesel. Results demonstrate that the use of pure biodiesel is not economically feasible in the boiler. The total costs of the boiler obtained with the blends and petrodiesel are quite competitive. B5 is introduced to be the best fuel for using in the boiler. Results also reveal an optimum (“compromise”) in total cost of all the fuels in relation to the oxygen concentration of stock gases, which promises a cost saving in the boiler performance.

► Efficiency, emissions and economy of the boiler fuelled with SOME, B5, B10, B20 and petrodiesel are investigated.
► The use of pure biodiesel was not economically feasible while economy of the blends and petrodiesel is competitive.
► B5 is introduced to be the most appropriate and economic fuel for the boiler.
► Presentation of a cost-based method optimization method.
► Introducing an optimum, “compromise”, O2% for the combustion of each fuel which promises a cost saving.