HomeMy WebLinkAboutSilver Gulch Brewery Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Fairbanks Alaska Final Report Coffman 10-22-2018-BIO
Silver Gulch Brewery
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey
in Fairbanks, Alaska
800 F Street, Anchorage, AK 99501
p (907) 276-6664 f (907) 276-5042
Lee Bolling, PE
FINAL REPORT – 10/22/2018
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
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Contents
1. Executive Summary ........................................................................................................... 1
2. Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 2
3. Preliminary Site Investigation ............................................................................................ 3
BUILDING DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................................................... 3
EXISTING HEATING PLANTS .............................................................................................................................................. 4
PROCESS EQUIPMENT ..................................................................................................................................................... 6
PLANNED STEAM SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS .......................................................................................................................... 8
4. Biomass System ................................................................................................................. 9
CHIP HANDLING SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................................... 10
WOOD CHIP COMBUSTOR UNIT ...................................................................................................................................... 13
STEAM BOILER UNIT ..................................................................................................................................................... 17
HEAT EXCHANGER FOR SPACE HEAT ................................................................................................................................. 19
5. Steam Control Discussion ................................................................................................. 20
6. Pre-Feasibility Discussion Points for Future Follow-up ...................................................... 21
CHIP FEED SYSTEM ....................................................................................................................................................... 21
AZSD-250 COMBUSTOR UNIT ....................................................................................................................................... 21
AJAX STEAM BOILER UNIT ............................................................................................................................................ 21
HEAT EXCHANGER ........................................................................................................................................................ 22
7. Energy Consumption and Costs ........................................................................................ 23
ENERGY COSTS ............................................................................................................................................................ 23
WOOD CHIPS .............................................................................................................................................................. 23
HEATING OIL ............................................................................................................................................................... 23
ELECTRICITY ................................................................................................................................................................ 23
EXISTING FUEL OIL CONSUMPTION .................................................................................................................................. 24
BIOMASS SYSTEM CONSUMPTION ................................................................................................................................... 24
8. Forest Resource and Fuel Availability Assessments .......................................................... 25
FUEL AVAILABILITY ....................................................................................................................................................... 25
AIR QUALITY PERMITTING .............................................................................................................................................. 25
9. General Biomass Technology Information ........................................................................ 26
HEATING WITH WOOD FUEL ........................................................................................................................................... 26
TYPES OF WOOD FUEL .................................................................................................................................................. 26
HIGH EFFICIENCY WOOD PELLET BOILERS ......................................................................................................................... 27
HIGH EFFICIENCY CORDWOOD BOILERS ............................................................................................................................ 27
LOW EFFICIENCY CORDWOOD BOILERS ............................................................................................................................. 27
HIGH EFFICIENCY WOOD STOVES .................................................................................................................................... 28
BULK FUEL BOILERS ...................................................................................................................................................... 28
HEAT PUMPS............................................................................................................................................................... 28
GRANTS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 28
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Appendices
Appendix A – Site Photos
Appendix B – AWEDTG Field Data Sheets
Appendix C – New Horizons Corp Correspondence (AZSD-250 Distributor)
Appendix D – Control Panel Electrical Schematic (AZSD-250 Unit)
Appendix E – State Boiler Permit Form
Appendix F – AJAX Boiler Cutsheet and Email Correspondence
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Abbreviations
ACF Accumulated Cash Flow
ASHRAE American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers
AEA Alaska Energy Authority
AFUE Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency
B/C Benefit / Cost Ratio
BTU British Thermal Unit
BTU/hr BTU per hour
COP Coefficient of Performance
CFM Cubic Feet per Minute
Eff Efficiency
F Fahrenheit
ft Feet
GPM Gallons Per Minute
HP Horsepower
HVAC Heating, Ventilating, and Air-Conditioning
in Inch(es)
kW Kilowatt(s)
kWh Kilowatt-Hour
lb(s) Pound(s)
MBH Thousand BTUs per Hour
O&M Operations and Maintenance
MAWP Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
MDSC Maximum Designed Steaming Capacity
MMBTU One Million BTUs
PC Project Cost
R R-Value
SF Square Feet, Supply Fan
TEMP Temperature
TPY Tons per Year
V Volts
VRF Variable Refrigerant Flow
W Watts
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List of Figures
Figure 1 – Silver Gulch Brewery .................................................................................................................... 2
Figure 2 – Aerial image of Silver Gulch Brewery ........................................................................................... 3
Figure 3 – Oil-fired steam boiler for process heating and DHW ................................................................... 5
Figure 4 – Three oil-fired water boilers for space heating located on the mezzanine ................................. 5
Figure 5 – Brewing process equipment heated by steam ............................................................................ 6
Figure 6 – Brewing process equipment heated by steam ............................................................................ 7
Figure 7 – Refrigerated tanks in the mechanical addition ............................................................................ 7
Figure 8 – Aerco steam hot water generator................................................................................................ 8
Figure 9 – Mechanical Building Addition .................................................................................................... 10
Figure 10 – Vacuum hose for chips ............................................................................................................. 11
Figure 11 – Chip vacuum system on mezzanine level ................................................................................. 11
Figure 12 – Air lock isolates day hopper from vacuum system (located on mezzanine level) ................... 12
Figure 13 – Vacuum system on mezzanine and day hopper below (looking up from ground floor) ......... 12
Figure 14 – AZSD-250 Wood Chip Combuster Components (O&M Manual Diagram) ............................... 13
Figure 15 – AZSD-250 Wood Chip Combuster and AJAX Boiler .................................................................. 14
Figure 16 – AZSD-250 Combuster Unit ....................................................................................................... 15
Figure 17 – AZSD-250 control panel (SE-4/E) .............................................................................................. 16
Figure 18 – AZSD-250 fire box ..................................................................................................................... 16
Figure 19 – Refractory plenum and AJAX boiler ......................................................................................... 17
Figure 20 – Steam supply piping off AJAX boiler and flue .......................................................................... 18
Figure 21 – Tube and shell heat exhanger (steam to water) for space heat connection ........................... 19
List of Tables
Table 1 – Energy Comparison Overview ....................................................................................................... 1
Table 2 – Building Characteristics ................................................................................................................. 4
Table 3 – Boiler Equipment ........................................................................................................................... 4
Table 4 – Wood Chip Boiler Equipment ........................................................................................................ 9
Table 5 – Energy Comparison ..................................................................................................................... 23
Table 6 – Existing Fuel Oil Consumption ..................................................................................................... 24
Table 7 – Proposed Biomass System Fuel Consumption ............................................................................ 24
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1. Executive Summary
Coffman performed a condition survey of the existing wood chip biomass heating system at the Silver
Gulch Brewery, located in Fox, Alaska, just north of Fairbanks. The wood chip system is approximately
90% constructed at this time and includes a chip conveyance system, a Polish made wood chip combustor
(AZSD-250), and a salvaged AJAX boiler. The system is not yet operational.
When complete, the wood chip heating system will provide steam that can be used to heat brewing
process tanks and provide space heat to the building. This system will help Silver Gulch Brewery reach
their goal of reducing fossil fuel costs and utilizing locally available biomass resources to both create a
more sustainable manufacturing process and reduce their carbon footprint.
One of the major milestones that must be reached in order to get the wood chip heating system complete
is to engineer a solution, with manufacturer input, for operating the wood chip combustor unit in a steam
application. A custom engineered solution is required because the wood chip combustor unit was made
for use with a hot water boiler and not a steam boiler. Other important items that must be addressed for
completion are discussed in this report.
Once complete, the wood chip heating system has the capability of offsetting a significant portion of the
heating oil burned for both space heating and steam process heating at the brewery. Heating with wood
chips is the lowest cost form of energy at Silver Gulch Brewery, as shown in the table below.
Table 1 – Energy Comparison Overview
Community Fuel Type Units Gross
BTU/unit
System
Efficiency $/unit Delivered
$/MMBTU
Silver Gulch
Wood Chips ton 12,000,000 75% $132 $14.67
Heating Oil gal 134,000 80% $2.50 $23.32
Electricity kWh 3,412 99% $0.25 $74.01
Exclusions: Please note Coffman Engineers performed a high-level evaluation of the system only. Any
recommendations in the report should be verified by a licensed engineer, and we recommend any
modification be specifically designed. Equipment manufacturers should also be coordinated with for
their systems applicability for the intended use. Additionally, where applicable, FNSB, the State Fire
Marshal, the State Boiler inspector and the State Electrical inspector should be coordinated with for
system modifications and operation.
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2. Introduction
A condition survey was completed of the existing wood chip heating system at the Silver Gulch Brewery,
in Fox, Alaska, just north of Fairbanks. This survey was completed by Coffman Engineers and funded by
the Fairbanks Economic Development Corporation (FEDC).
Silver Gulch’s goal is to reduce fossil fuel consumption and utilize locally available biomass fuel resources
to create a more sustainable manufacturing process and reduce their carbon footprint.
Figure 1 – Silver Gulch Brewery
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3. Preliminary Site Investigation
A site visit was completed by Coffman Engineers on August 1, 2018. The inspector was Lee Bolling P.E., a
mechanical engineer who has been involved in many biomass projects over the years.
Glenn Brady was also present, he is the owner and lead brewer of the Silver Gulch Brewery. He is a
mechanical professional engineer who has had many years of experience in steam systems. Glen led the
site investigation with Coffman and showed how the mechanical and processes systems currently operate,
and discussed the desired plan for future operations with the wood chip boiler system integrated.
An aerial image of the Silver Gulch Brewery is shown below.
Figure 2 – Aerial image of Silver Gulch Brewery
Building Description
The original building was built in 1985 and houses a large restaurant and beer brewery equipment. This
original building was renovated in 1994. In 1998, the Silver Gulch Brewery began brewing beer and started
operations. In 2013, an addition was built on the north side of the original building for mechanical
equipment. The mechanical addition contains the oil-fired heating plants, the wood chip boiler system
and refrigerated beer storage tanks.
MECHANICAL
ADDITION
ORIGINAL SILVER
GULCH BREWERY
BUILDING
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The brewery is occupied daily and is approximately 34,000 square feet. There have been no energy audits
completed for the building. The date of construction, occupant characteristics and type of construction is
shown in the following table.
Table 2 – Building Characteristics
Building Year Built Occupants Type of Construction
Original
Building
1985
(renovated
1994)
48 staff and 200
to 300 customers Wood frame. R-38 walls, R-50 roof.
Mechanical
Addition 2013 1 to 4 staff Metal frame. R-38 walls, R-50 roof.
Existing Heating Plants
At the brewery, there are two main heat generation plants located in the mechanical addition. First, an
oil-fired steam boiler produces 25 psig steam that creates process steam for all of the heating required
for the brewing process, as well as non-brew related domestic hot water (DHW). Second, a bank of
three oil-fired water heaters provide space heat for the building, which uses radiant slabs, cabinet unit
heaters, air handlers, and fan coils to distribute heat throughout the building. The following table shows
the heating capacities of the boiler plants.
Table 3 – Boiler Equipment
Service Boiler Plant DHW Plant Fuel Tankage
Process Steam Performance Steam Boiler
Oil-Fired
Model 040SM-PF-ST-SNG-FE-MD
MDSC: 1380 lb/hr
Built 2003
AERCO Steam Hot
Water Generator
Model H-14-115
(Used for non-brew
related DHW) 2,500-gal buried
fuel tank Space Heat Three Triad Boiler System Water Heaters
Oil-Fired
Model OPS-300-SH-HEP
322,000 BTU/hr Output Each
Built 2012
N/A
Photos of both the steam boiler and water heaters are shown in the following pages. These boilers are in
good condition and are relatively new. They were installed during construction of the mechanical
addition. The steam boiler is located on ground level and the water heaters are located on the mezzanine
above.
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Figure 3 – Oil-fired steam boiler for process heating and DHW
Figure 4 – Three oil-fired water boilers for space heating located on the mezzanine
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Process Equipment
The brewery has many stainless-steel tanks that are heated with steam for the brewing process, in the
original building. Steam is routed in pipe racks through the hallways from the steam boiler to the process
equipment.
Steam is also used to create non-brewing DHW for hand washing, laundry, and ware washing
(pots/pans). An Aerco steam hot water generator is used for this DHW.
Beer storage tanks are located in the mechanical addition and are refrigerated, using a propylene glycol
loop from three electrical chillers.
Photos of the major process equipment are shown below.
Figure 5 – Brewing process equipment heated by steam
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Figure 6 – Brewing process equipment heated by steam
Figure 7 – Refrigerated tanks in the mechanical addition
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Figure 8 – Aerco steam hot water generator
Planned Steam System Improvements
The steam boiler currently operates at 25 psig. However, there are plans to increase the steam pressure
to 50 psig in order to better control the brewing process equipment. The steam main piping is 3” nominal
pipe size (NPS), which in hindsight is smaller than what is needed and creates too much pressure loss in
the system. Instead of upgrading the line to 4” NPS, the plan is to increase the steam pressure to 50 psig.
This will give higher steam pressures at the inlet to the process tank control valves, which will allow better
temperature control of the tanks. This modification appears feasible. Prior to making the change the
entire system and associated components should be evaluated by a licensed engineer to verify there are
all items are rated for this pressure increase.
A steam turbine electrical generator was also looked into by Silver Gulch to reduce electricity costs. But
it has a large capital cost and fairly long-term payback, making it an unattractive option. If the generator
failed in an islanded microgrid situation, it would create significant issues for facility operation. Plus, the
level of technical competence to operate this machinery is difficult to come by. If this were to operate as
grid connected system, specific utility coordination would also be required to stay connected to the power
grid.
Silver Gulch also looked at the feasibility to use steam to run an absorption chiller. However, the
economics didn’t work out due to high capital cost.
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4. Biomass System
Silver Gulch completed an inhouse feasibility study of a wood chip heating system and started
construction on the project several years ago. At the time of the site visit, approximately 90% of the wood
chip heating system had been constructed in the mechanical addition.
The system is composed of a pneumatic wood chip conveyor system, a Goliath AZSD-250 Wood Chip
Combustor, and a salvaged AJAX water-tube boiler. The goal is to burn locally available wood chips to
produce steam for the brewing process and also for space heating.
It should be noted that the AZSD combustor is manufactured for use with a hot water boiler and not for a
steam boiler. The AZSD-250 control system will need to be customized for use in a steam system.
Modifying the control system is not part of this condition survey, and should be an engineered solution
by a licensed registered professional engineer with specific manufacturer review and approval of the
modifications.
The wood chip boiler equipment is shown in the table below:
Table 4 – Wood Chip Boiler Equipment
Unit Description
Wood Chip
Vacuum Conveyor
Murphy-Rogers Cyclone Type Dust Collector
Wood Chip
Combustor Unit
Hamech Goliath AZSD-250 Automated Wood waste Combustion Unit
250 kW Thermal Output (853,000 BTU/hr)
2.3 cubic meter (3-cubic yard) Day Hopper Tank
Manufactured 2008 in Poland
Burns wood waste between 30%-60% moisture content.
Refractory Unit Custom fabricated refractory unit to couple AZSD-250 combustor with AJAX boiler.
Steam Boiler Unit AJAX Gas Fired Water Heating Boiler, Water-Tube
Model SA-30
150 psig Maximum Allowable Working Pressure (M.A.W.P.)
1,256,000 BTU/hr Max Input
628,000 BTU/hr Min Input
1,005,000 BTU/hr Max Output
502,500 BTU/hr Min Output
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Chip Handling System
The chip handling system uses a pneumatic system to transport 1” minus wood chips from the chip pile
to the AZSD-250’s day hopper. The AZSD-250 unit needs chips that have between 30%-60% moisture
content to burn. A cyclone separator and airlock are used to move the chips. The transport system has
been tested and is able to move chips. We recommend the system be verified that it will work in a long-
term chip handling mode, as the cyclone separator is not designed for this specific application of large
chip movement. Also, since the chip storage is outside, there may be issues of chip freeze up if the
moisture content of the chips is too high. Mechanical methods may be needed to loosen frozen chips for
the vacuum system to work.
The following photos show the components of the chip handling system. We assume an appropriate
structural design has been completed for the chip storage canopy and associated components.
Figure 9 – Mechanical Building Addition
STEAM
BOILER FLUE
WATER
HEATER FLUES
WOOD CHIP
BOILER FLUE
CHIP STORAGE CANOPY
STRUCTURE (ROOF NOT
YET INSTALLED)
VACUUM SYSTEM FOR
CHIP CONVEYANCE
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Figure 10 – Vacuum hose for chips
Figure 11 – Chip vacuum system on mezzanine level
CYCLONE TYPE DUST
COLLECTOR USED TO
TRANSPORT CHIPS
VACUUM LINE
FROM CHIP PILE
VACUUM HOSE FOR
CHIP CONVEYANCE
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Figure 12 – Air lock isolates day hopper from vacuum system (located on mezzanine level)
Figure 13 – Vacuum system on mezzanine and day hopper below (looking up from ground floor)
AIR
LOCK
VACUUM LINE
FROM CHIP PILE
WOOD CHIP DAY
HOPPER
CYCLONE
UNIT
CYCLONE
ABOVE
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Wood Chip Combustor Unit
The AZSD-250 wood chip combustor unit is located on the ground floor of the mechanical addition. It has
a large day hopper for wood chips and uses two feed augers to transport chips to the combustion
chamber. A blower fan is used to provide combustion air. And a control panel is used to control the
blower, feed augurs and maintain temperature set point (in hot water applications).
The control panel will need to be modified for use with a steam system (not part of this condition survey).
Modifications are recommended to be designed by an engineer and coordinated with equipment
manufactures.
The AZSD boiler unit appears to be in new condition and has never been fired.
The following figures show the major components of the AZSD system.
Note: Dimensions in millimeters.
Figure 14 – AZSD-250 Wood Chip Combuster Components (O&M Manual Diagram)
WOOD CHIP
DAY HOPPER
AZSD-250
COMBUSTOR UNIT
BLOWER FAN
FEED AUGERS
ASH DOOR
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Figure 15 – AZSD-250 Wood Chip Combuster and AJAX Boiler
AZSD-250 WOOD
CHIP DAY HOPPER
AJAX BOILER
CUSTOM
REFRACTORY
PLENUM TO
ROUTE EXHAUST
INTO AJAX
BOILER
AZSD-250 WOOD
CHIP COMBUSTOR
MODULE
AZSD-250
CONTROL PANEL
AZSD-250
FEED
AUGER
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Figure 16 – AZSD-250 Combuster Unit
REMOVABLE
LID USED TO
ACCESS FIRE
BOX
ASH
ACCESS
HATCH
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Figure 17 – AZSD-250 control panel (SE-4/E)
Figure 18 – AZSD-250 fire box
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Steam Boiler Unit
The AZSD combustor unit is connected to a custom refractory plenum that directs hot combustion gases
to an AJAX water-tube boiler. We recommend a thorough evaluation of the custom plenum for
applicability and compatibility with existing components. The AJAX boiler was originally manufactured as
a gas-fired hot water boiler and was salvaged from another installation. The plan is to remove the gas-
fired components and reuse the AJAX boiler for steam application with the wood chip combustor. The
boiler flue rises up through the mezzanine above and, if required, emission controls could be added on
the mezzanine. Steam piping comes off the top of the AJAX boiler and will connect to the existing steam
system.
The AJAX company was bought by ACE Heaters (www.aceheaters.com) around 5 years ago. ACE Heaters
no longer manufactures this type of AJAX inclined, water-tube boiler. ACE Heaters was contacted, and
according to them the model SA-30 AJAX boiler was manufactured as a high-pressure steam boiler. A
cutsheet of the SA-30 model is attached in Appendix F, as well as the email correspondence with ACE
Heaters.
Figure 19 – Refractory plenum and AJAX boiler
CUSTOM REFRACTORY PLENUM
AJAX
BOILER
LEGACY
INSTRUMENTATION
FROM WHEN AJAX
BOILER WAS IN
NATURAL-GAS SERVICE
FLUE
STEAM SUPPLY
PIPING
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Figure 20 – Steam supply piping off AJAX boiler and flue
STEAM SUPPLY
PIPING TO
STEAM MAIN
BOILER FLUE
AJAX
BOILER
MEZZANINE
STRUCTURE
ABOVE
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Heat Exchanger for Space Heat
A salvaged tube and shell heat exchanger is partially installed on the mezzanine, to allow steam to heat
the hydronic system for space heating. This will enable the wood chip steam boiler system or the existing
oil-fired steam boiler to provide space heat to the facility. We recommend an engineer verify process
applicability and sizing of this HX and that its condition meets operational requirements.
This heat exchanger is tied into the supply line downstream of the three oil-fired hot water boilers. The
hydronic side of the heat exchanger is piped up, with bypass valves. The steam and condensate piping
still need to be installed.
Figure 21 – Tube and shell heat exhanger (steam to water) for space heat connection
TUBE AND SHELL
HEAT EXCHANGER
STEAM SUPPLY PIPING AND
CONDENSATE PIPING NOT
HOOKED UP YET
HYDRONIC PIPING
FROM OIL-FIRED
WATER HEATERS
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5. Steam Control Discussion
One of the challenges that must be solved to make this system work is to figure out how to control the
AZSD unit in a steam application.
The AZSD distributor (New Horizons Corp) was contacted to discuss what solutions may be feasible.
According to New Horizons, the AZSD unit is made for hot water applications and there is no steam
controller that can be purchased for the AZSD unit.
However, New Horizons provided recommendations that could be made to modify the AZSD unit to
work in a steam application. See Appendix C for the New Horizons recommendations and Appendix D
for the control panel electrical schematic.
Any modifications to the AZSD-250 combustor and AJAX boiler system should be engineered by a
licensed professional engineer and meet all applicable codes and standards, including NFPA and ASME.
Additionally, we recommend any modification be approved by the manufacturer.
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6. Pre-Feasibility Discussion Points for Future Follow-up
We recommend the following discussion points be addressed in order to finish the completion of the
wood chip heating system at the Silver Gulch Brewery. All modifications and additions should be designed
by an engineer in accordance with applicable federal, state and local codes and standards. All applicable
permits for design, construction and operational should be obtained. The discussion points are organized
by system component.
Chip Feed System
1. Finish construction of the canopy roof over chips to protect from weather.
2. The cyclone dust collector may have maintenance issues operating with chips, instead of dust as
originally designed. Recommend monitoring chip conveyance system and modify as needed to
properly transport chips.
3. It appears that the chip vacuum hose will need to manually moved around the chip pile by an
operator. There are automated options available, such as walking floors or auger systems that
could be used to automatically transport chips to the vacuum hose.
4. Since the chip storage is outside, there may be issues of chip freeze up if the moisture content
of the chips is too high.
5. Finish connecting the air lock unit to the day hopper, so that chips can be transferred to the
AZSD unit.
AZSD-250 Combustor Unit
1. Finish installing the blower fan. Install per manufacturer.
2. Verify the voltage and frequency of the AZSD unit (230V and 60Hz). The AZSD nameplate on the
unit appears to have been metal stamped with 230V and 60Hz, over the top of the European
voltage and frequency standards. Double check that the unit has been rated for US voltage and
frequency standards.
3. Work with the manufacturer and a licensed registered professional engineer to engineer a
steam control system for the AZSD unit and AJAX boiler, that meets all applicable codes and
standards.
AJAX Steam Boiler Unit
1. Work with a licensed registered professional engineer to engineer a steam control system for
the AZSD unit and AJAX boiler, that meets all applicable codes and standards.
2. UL listing of the AJAX boiler may be voided because it has been taken apart and repurposed
from an original natural gas-fired unit.
3. Verify proper pressure protection, pressure safety valves and other safeties are installed per all
applicable codes and standards.
4. Finish feed water boiler trim to AJAX boiler
5. If applicable, submit a state boiler permit to the State Boiler inspector. Attached in Appendix E
for a copy of the permit application.
(http://labor.alaska.gov/lss/forms/new_boiler_install_notification.pdf)
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Heat Exchanger
1. Pipe up heat exchanger steam and condensate piping.
2. Install control valve (or other control device) for space heat temperature control.
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7. Energy Consumption and Costs
Energy Costs
The table below shows the energy comparison of different fuel types at Silver Gulch. The system efficiency
is used to calculate the delivered MMBTU’s of energy to the building. The delivered cost of energy to the
building, in $/MMBTU, is the most accurate way to compare costs of different energy types.
Wood chips are the lowest cost form of energy at Silver Gulch.
Table 5 – Energy Comparison
Community Fuel Type Units Gross
BTU/unit
System
Efficiency $/unit Delivered
$/MMBTU
Silver Gulch
Wood Chips ton 12,000,000 75% $132 $14.67
Heating Oil gal 134,000 80% $2.50 $23.32
Electricity kWh 3,412 99% $0.25 $74.01
Wood Chips
Wood chips are available from the Northland Wood sawmill in Fairbanks. They sell screened chips in bulk
deliveries with a 45-yard box truck. The current price is $1,440 for a 45-cubic yard delivery of wood chips
to the customer’s location. This is approximately $132/ton of chips, based on a chip density of 18 lbs/cubic
foot and energy content of 6,000 BTU/lb at 40% moisture content.
Heating Oil
The high price of fuel oil is the main economic driver for the use of lower cost biomass heating. Fuel oil is
currently purchased at around $2.50/gal, based on heating oil records. The price of fuel oil has fluctuated
greatly over time, and currently appears to be at a lower price than in the recent past. The wide variation
of fuel oil prices is a disadvantage compared to more stably priced wood chips. For this study, the energy
content of fuel oil is based on 134,000 BTU/gal, according to “Heating Values of Fuels” by the UAF
Cooperative Extension, 2009.
Electricity
Electricity for the brewery is provided by Golden Valley Electric Association. Silver Gulch receives the GS2
electric rate. The effective electricity rate at the facility is around $0.25/kWh. The effective electricity
rate is the cost of all electric costs (demand, energy, customer charges) per kWH for a billing period. There
are 3,412 BTUs per kWh.
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Existing Fuel Oil Consumption
The existing heating oil consumption for both space heating and process steam at the brewery is shown
below. The total combined cost of heating oil usage is $76,750 per year.
Table 6 – Existing Fuel Oil Consumption
Load Fuel Type Annual Consumption Net
MMBTU/yr
Avg. Annual
Cost
Space Heating Heating Oil 16,750 gal 1795.6 $41,875
Process Steam Heating Oil 13,950 gal 1495.4 $34,875
Total Heating Oil 30,700 gal 3291.0 $76,750
Biomass System Consumption
According to Silver Gulch, the chip boiler was sized to cover the base load for the process steam and extra
steam generation can be used to offset space heat. It is estimated that the proposed biomass system
could offset approximately 80% or more of the heating energy for the process steam and space heating.
The remaining 20% of the heating energy will be provided by the existing oil boilers. This could result in
annual energy savings of $22,785 or more.
Table 7 – Proposed Biomass System Fuel Consumption
Fuel Type
%
Heating
Source
Net
MMBTU/yr
Annual
Consumption Energy Cost
Total
Energy
Cost
Annual Energy
Savings
Wood Chips 80% 2632.8 293 tons $38,615 $53,965 $22,785 Fuel Oil 20% 658.2 6,140 gal $15,350
Note – Based on wood chips at $132/ton, heating oil at $2.50/gal.
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
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8. Forest Resource and Fuel Availability Assessments
Fuel Availability
For this study, the local wood chip supplier is Northland Wood sawmill in Fairbanks. There is adequate
wood chip availability from this distributer. No further forest resource assessments were obtained.
Air Quality Permitting
Currently, air quality permitting is regulated according to the Alaska Department of Environmental
Conservation Section 18 AAC 50 Air Quality Control regulations. Per these regulations, a minor air quality
permit is required if a new wood boiler or wood stove produces one of the following conditions per
Section 18 AAC 50.502 (C)(1): 40 tons per year (TPY) of carbon dioxide (CO2), 15 TPY of particulate matter
greater than 10 microns (PM-10), 40 TPY of sulfur dioxide, 0.6 TPY of lead, 100 TPY of carbon monoxide
within 10 kilometers of a carbon monoxide nonattainment area, or 10 TPY of direct PM -2.5 emissions.
These regulations assume that the device will operate 24 hours per day, 365 days per year and that no
fuel burning equipment is used. If a new wood boiler or wood stove is installed in addition to a fuel
burning heating device, the increase in air pollutants cannot exceed the following per AAC 50.502 (C)(3):
10 TPY of PM-10, 10 TPY of sulfur dioxide, 10 TPY of nitrogen oxides, 100 TPY of carbon monoxide within
10 kilometers of a carbon monoxide nonattainment area, or 10 TPY of direct PM-2.5 emissions. Per the
Wood-fired Heating Device Visible Emission Standards (Section 18 AAC 50.075), a person may not operate
a wood-fired heating device in a manner that causes black smoke or visible emissions that exceed 50
percent opacity for more than 15 minutes in any hour in an area where an air quality advisory is in effect.
From Coffman’s discussions with Patrick Dunn at the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation,
these regulations are focused on permitting industrial applications of wood burning equipment. In his
opinion, it would be unlikely that an individual wood boiler would require an air quality permit unless
several boilers were to be installed and operated at the same site. If several boilers were installed and
operated together, the emissions produced could be greater than 40 tons of CO2 per year. This would
require permitting per AAC 50.502 (C)(1) or (C)(3). Permitting would not be required on the residential
wood fired stoves unless they violated the Wood-fired Heating Device Visible Emission Standards (Section
18 AAC 50.075). Recent similarly sized Garn wood fired boiler systems installed in Alaska have not
required air quality permits.
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
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9. General Biomass Technology Information
Heating with Wood Fuel
Wood fuels are among the most cost-effective and reliable sources of heating fuel for communities
adjacent to forestland when the wood fuels are processed, handled, and combusted appropriately.
Compared to other heating energy fuels, such as oil and propane, wood fuels typically have lower energy
density and higher associated transportation and handling costs. Due to this low bulk density, wood fuels
have a shorter viable haul distance when compared to fossil fuels. This short haul distance also creates an
advantage for local communities to utilize locally-sourced wood fuels, while simultaneously retaining local
energy dollars.
Most communities in rural Alaska are particularly vulnerable to high energy prices due to the large number
of heating degree days and expensive shipping costs. For many communities, wood-fueled heating can
lower fuel costs. For example, cordwood sourced at $250 per cord is just 25% of the cost per MMBTU as
#1 fuel oil sourced at $7 per gallon. In addition to the financial savings, the local communities also benefit
from the multiplier effect of circulating energy dollars within the community longer, more stable energy
prices, job creation, and more active forest management.
The local cordwood market is influenced by land ownership, existing forest management and ecological
conditions, local demand and supply, and the State of Alaska Energy Assistance program.
Types of Wood Fuel
Wood fuels are specified by energy density, moisture content, ash content, and granulometry. Each of
these characteristics affects the wood fuel’s handling characteristics, storage requirements, and
combustion process. Higher quality fuels have lower moisture, ash, dirt, and rock contents, consistent
granulometry, and higher energy density. Different types of fuel quality can be used in wood heating
projects as long as the infrastructure specifications match the fuel content characteristics. Typically, lower
quality fuel will be the lowest cost fuel, but it will require more expensive storage, handling, and
combustion infrastructure, as well as additional maintenance.
Projects in rural Alaska must be designed around the availability of wood fuels. Some fuels can be
harvested and manufactured on site, such as cordwood, woodchips, and briquettes. Wood pellets can
also be used, but typically require a larger scale pellet manufacturer to make them. The economic
feasibility of manufacturing on site is determined by a financial assessment of the project. Typically, larger
projects offer more flexibility in terms of owning and operating the wood harvesting and manufacturing
equipment, such as a wood chipper, splitter, or equipment to haul wood out of forest, than smaller
projects.
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
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High Efficiency Wood Pellet Boilers
High efficiency pellet boilers are designed to burn wood pellets cleanly and efficiently. These boilers utilize
pellet storage bins or silos that hold a large percentage of the building’s annual pellet supply. Augers or
vacuums transfer pellets from the silos to a pellet hopper adjacent to the pellet boiler, where pellets can
be fed into the boiler for burning. Pellets are automatically loaded into the pellet boiler and do not require
manual loading such as in a Garn cordwood boiler. The pellet boilers typically have a 3 to 1 turn down
ratio, which allows the firing rate to modulate from 100% down to 33% fire. This allows the boiler to
properly match building heat demand, increasing boiler efficiency. The efficiencies of these boilers can
range from 85% to 92% efficiency depending on firing rate.
High Efficiency Cordwood Boilers
High Efficiency Low Emission (HELE) cordwood boilers are designed to burn cordwood fuel cleanly and
efficiently. The boilers use cordwood that is typically seasoned to 25% moisture content (MC) or less and
meet the dimensions required for loading and firing. The amount of cordwood burned by the boiler will
depend on the heat load profile of the building and the utilization of the fuel oil system as back up. Two
HELE cordwood boiler suppliers include Garn (www.garn.com) and TarmUSA (www.woodboilers.com).
Both of these suppliers have units operating in Alaska. TarmUSA has a number of residential units
operating in Alaska and has models that range between 100,000 to 300,000 BTU/hr. Garn boilers,
manufactured by Dectra Corporation, are used in Tanana, Kasilof, Dot Lake, Thorne Bay, Coffman Cove
and other locations to heat homes, washaterias, schools, and community buildings.
The Garn boiler has a unique construction, which is basically a wood boiler housed in a large water tank.
Garn boilers come in several sizes and are appropriate for facilities using 100,000 to 1,000,000 BTUs per
hour. The jacket of water surrounding the fire box absorbs heat and is piped into buildings via a heat
exchanger, and then transferred to an existing building heating system, in-floor radiant tubing, unit
heaters, or baseboard heaters. In installations where the Garn boiler is in a detached building, there are
additional heat exchangers, pumps and a glycol circulation loop that are necessary to transfer heat to the
building while allowing for freeze protection. Radiant floor heating is the most efficient heating method
when using wood boilers such as Garns, because they can operate using lower supply water temperatures
compared to baseboards.
Garn boilers are approximately 87% efficient and store a large quantity of water. For example, the Garn
WHS-2000 holds approximately 1,825 gallons of heated water. Garns also produce virtually no smoke
when at full burn, because of a primary and secondary gasification (2,000 ºF) burning process. Garns are
manually stocked with cordwood and can be loaded multiple times a day during periods of high heating
demand. Garns are simple to operate with only three moving parts: a handle, door and blower. Garns
produce very little ash and require minimal maintenance. Removing ash and inspecting fans are typical
maintenance requirements. Fans are used to produce a draft that increases combustion temperatures
and boiler efficiency. In cold climates, Garns can be equipped with exterior insulated storage tanks for
extra hot water circulating capacity. Most facilities using cordwood boilers keep existing oil-fired systems
operational to provide heating backup during biomass boiler downtimes and to provide additional heat
for peak heating demand periods.
Low Efficiency Cordwood Boilers
Outdoor boilers are categorized as low-efficiency, high emission (LEHE) systems. These boiler systems are
not recommended as they produce significant emission issues and do not combust wood fuels efficiently
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
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or completely, resulting in significant energy waste and pollution. These systems require significantly
more wood to be purchased, handled and combusted to heat a facility as compared to a HELE system.
Additionally, several states have placed a moratorium on installing LEHE boilers because of air quality
issues (Washington). These LEHE systems can have combustion efficiencies as low as 25% percent and
produce more than nine times the emission rate of standard industrial boilers. In comparison, HELEs can
operate around 87% efficiency.
High Efficiency Wood Stoves
Newer high efficiency wood stoves are available on the market that produce minimal smoke, minimal ash
and require less firewood. New EPA-certified wood stoves produce significantly less smoke than older
uncertified wood stoves. High efficiency wood stoves are easy to operate with minimal maintenance
compared to other biomass systems. The Blaze King Classic high efficiency wood stove
(www.blazeking.com) is a recommended model, due to its built-in thermostats that monitor the heat
output of the stove. This stove automatically adjusts the air required for combustion. This unique
technology, combined with the efficiencies of a catalytic combustor with a built-in thermostat, provides
the longest burn times of any wood stove. The Blaze King stove allows for optimal combustion and less
frequent loading and firing times.
Bulk Fuel Boilers
Bulk fuel boilers usually burn wood chips, sawdust, bark or pellets and are designed around the wood
resources that are available from the local forests or local industry. Several large facilities in Galena, Tok,
Craig, and Delta Junction (Delta Greely High School) are using bulk fuel biomass systems. Tok uses a
commercial grinder to process woodchips. The chips are then dumped into a bin and are carried by a
conveyor belt to the boiler. The wood fuel comes from timber scraps, local sawmills and forest thinning
projects. The Delta Greely High School has a woodchip bulk fuel boiler that heats the 77,000 square foot
facility. The Delta Greely system, designed by Coffman engineers, includes a completely separate boiler
building which includes a chip storage bunker and space for storage of tractor trailers full of chips (so
handling of frozen chips could be avoided). Woodchips are stored in the concrete bunker and augers move
the material on a conveyor belt to the boilers.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps can be an energy-efficient alternative for heating buildings located in moderate heating
climates. Electricity is used to drive a refrigeration cycle in the heat pump, which transfers heat from the
outside air to the inside of the building. The Department of Energy is a great source for more information
on heat pumps.
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/heat-and-cool/heat-pump-systems
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/heat-pump-systems/air-source-heat-pumps
Grants
There are state, federal, and local grant opportunities for biomass work for feasibility studies, design and
construction. If a project is pursued, a thorough search of websites and discussions with the AEA Biomass
group is recommended to make sure no possible funding opportunities are missed. Below are some
funding opportunities and existing past grants that have been awarded.
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development has over fifty financial assistance programs for a
variety of rural applications. This includes energy efficiency and renewable energy programs.
http://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services
The city of Nulato was awarded a $40,420 grant for engineering services for a wood energy project by the
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Forest Service. Links regarding the
award of the Woody Biomass Utilization Project recipients are shown below:
http://www.fs.fed.us/news/2012/releases/07/renewablewoods.shtml
Delta Junction was awarded a grant for engineering from the Alaska Energy Authority from the Renewable
Energy Fund for $831,203. This fund provides assistance to utilities, independent power producers, local
governments, and tribal governments for feasibility studies, reconnaissance studies, energy resource
monitoring, and work related to the design and construction of eligible facilities.
http://www.akenergyauthority.org/Programs/RenewableEnergyFund
The Alaska Wood Energy Development Task Group (AWEDTG) consists of a coalition of federal and state
agencies and not-for-profit organizations that have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to
explore opportunities to increase the utilization of wood for energy and biofuels production in Alaska. A
pre-feasibility study for Aleknagik was conducted in 2012 for the AWEDTG. The preliminary costs for the
biomass system(s) are $346,257 for the city hall and health center system and $439,096 for the city hall,
health center, and future washateria system.
http://www.akenergyauthority.org/Programs/AEEE/Biomass
The Emerging Energy Technology Fund grand program provides funds to eligible applicants for
demonstrations projects of technologies that have a reasonable expectation to be commercially viable
within five years and that are designed to: test emerging energy technologies or methods of conserving
energy, improve an existing energy technology, or deploy an existing technology that has not previously
been demonstrated in Alaska.
http://www.akenergyauthority.org/Programs/EETF1
The U.S. Forest Service also has grants available, such as the Wood Innovation Program. In 2018, there
was $8 million of grant money available to communities to expand and accelerate wood products and
wood energy markets.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/naspf/programs/wood-education-and-resource-center/2018-wood-
innovations-program-request-proposals
Department of Energy (DOE) funding options can be accessed at these links:
https://www.energy.gov/energy-economy/funding-financing
https://www.energy.gov/eere/wipo/energy-efficiency-and-conservation-block-grant-program
https://www.energy.gov/eere/funding/apply-eere-funding-opportunities
https://archive.epa.gov/greenbuilding/web/html/funding.html#general
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
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Also, the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) and DOE have revolving loan funds that can be
used for energy improvements.
https://www.ahfc.us/efficiency/non-residential-buildings/energy-efficiency-revolving-loan-fund-aeerlp/
https://www.energy.gov/savings/energy-efficiency-revolving-loan-fund-program
Finally, additional clean energy programs in Alaska can be found at:
http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program?fromSir=0&state=AK
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Appendix A
Site Photos
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Site Photos
1. South elevation of mechanical addition 2. Electrical service
3. Chillers for cooling tanks 4. Mezzanine with oil-fired water heaters and
heat exchanger
5. Air compressor for pneumatic control system 6. Expansion tank
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Site Photos
7. Hydronic circulation pumps 8. Beer bottling area
9. Oil-fired water heaters 10. AZSD-250 Wood Chip Combustor
11. Oil-fired Steam Boiler 12. Steam to water heat exchanger
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Appendix B
AWEDTG Field Data Sheets
16,750 gal
13,950 gal
$2.40/gal
$2.40/gal
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Appendix C
New Horizons Corp Correspondence
(AZSD-250 Distributor)
1
Bolling, Lee
From:Zenon Pawlowski <newhorizoncorp@gmail.com>
Sent:Thursday, August 16, 2018 6:34 AM
To:Bolling, Lee
Subject:Re: AZSD 250 question
Yes, this cover our conversation. I do not think I have it. Additional diagram is for different controller with VFD 's for
motors. ( single phase)
On Wed, Aug 15, 2018 at 7:51 PM, Bolling, Lee <bolling@coffman.com> wrote:
Hi Zenon,
Thank you for talking with me today on the phone.
Here are my notes from our conversation. Let me know if I missed anything.
1. The AZSD unit is made for hot water applications. There is no steam controller that can be purchased for the
AZSD unit.
2. The AZSD controller can be modified in the following ways to make it work in a steam system:
a. First, the water temperature sensor must be left attached to the controller, but not used to measure
water temp. It can be set to measure ambient air temp so that it is always calling for heat. This allows
the controller to still function. The temp sensor cannot be used for producing steam.
b. Second, install a pressure switch on the steam boiler. Wire the switch in series with the controller relays
so that the pressure switch will stop the blower fan, feed auger 1 and feed auger 2. This allows the
AZSD to be shut down once the steam pressure exceeds the pressure switch set point.
c. Third, incorporate a level switch in the steam boiler to shut down the AZSD on lower water level in the
boiler. This can be done by putting level switch in series with pressure switch (above).
d. Fourth, incorporate a flue temp switch on the steam boiler flue to shut down AZSD if flue temp becomes
too high.
e. Fifth, recommend installing a variable frequency draft booster on the steam boiler exhaust.
f. Tune the amount air and chip feeding in the controller and draft booster to get AZSD operating as
required in steam application.
3. Recommend using 3PH power for the AZSD controller.
4. There is an end switch in the burn box that will stop the AZSD if there is too much fuel.
5. There is a new version of the controller that allows the AZSD to idle (or sustain). This allows the unit to slowly
burn wood chips and keep fire going when there is no call for heat. This may not be needed if there is always a
call for heat.
Please send the controller wiring diagram for Glenn’s unit when you find it.
2
Please let me know if I missed anything above.
Thanks,
Lee Bolling, P.E.
Engineer, Mechanical Engineering
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
p 907.276.6664 | f 907.276.5042 www.coffman.com
From: Bolling, Lee
Sent: Wednesday, August 15, 2018 11:04 AM
To: 'Zenon Pawlowski' <newhorizoncorp@gmail.com>
Subject: RE: AZSD 250 question
Attached is the control schematic for our discussion.
Lee Bolling, P.E.
Engineer, Mechanical Engineering
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
p 907.276.6664 | f 907.276.5042 www.coffman.com
From: Bolling, Lee
Sent: Tuesday, August 14, 2018 4:56 PM
To: 'Zenon Pawlowski' <newhorizoncorp@gmail.com>
Subject: RE: AZSD 250 question
Hello Zenon,
3
Do you have time Wednesday for a quick phone call? I’d like to make sure I’m understanding what needs to be done.
My direct line is 907-257-9276.
Thanks,
Lee Bolling, P.E.
Engineer, Mechanical Engineering
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
p 907.276.6664 | f 907.276.5042 www.coffman.com
From: Zenon Pawlowski <newhorizoncorp@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 8, 2018 9:13 AM
To: Bolling, Lee <bolling@coffman.com>
Subject: Re: AZSD 250 question
Yes ,you can use this burner to deliver heat to steam boiler. Controller supplied with unit needs to be modify utilizing
controls from steam boiler but first you have to unscrew temp sensor and and live it connected but not reading actual
temp of boiler Water level controls in the boiler usually have to settings one calls for pump to restore water
level another will shut don burner if level will be to low. This one should also shut down fuel feed and blower. Another
one is pressure switch . The same : burner should go to idle mode stopping fuel feed and blower. Idle mode periodically
deliver small amount of fuel and 4-5 sec air to sustain glowing. If you incorporate them in series with feeding and air
controls it should work. Steam boiler will have control system included .
There is no controller for AZSD unit for steam use.
On Tue, Aug 7, 2018 at 6:52 PM, Bolling, Lee <bolling@coffman.com> wrote:
Hello,
I’m working with a client that wants to convert their existing AZSD-250 Goliath Combuster from hydronic to steam. It
was originally purchased as a hydronic (hot water) unit with controls. The client wants to utilize it in a steam system.
The unit was only partially installed and has never been used. An AJAX water tube boiler will be used to make the
steam.
4
What is required to change it to steam? Is there a new controller and instrumentation that is needed?
Attached are several photos of the unit.
Thanks,
Lee Bolling, P.E.
Engineer, Mechanical Engineering
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
800 F Street | Anchorage, AK 99501
p 907.276.6664 | f 907.276.5042 www.coffman.com
--
Zenon Pawlowski
New Horizon Inc.
Sutton,WV 26601
304 765 7171
www.newhorizoncorp.com
www.biomass-heat.com
www.newhorizonstore.com
--
Zenon Pawlowski
New Horizon Inc.
Sutton,WV 26601
304 765 7171
www.newhorizoncorp.com
www.biomass-heat.com
www.newhorizonstore.com
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Appendix D
Control Panel Electrical Schematic
(AZSD-250 Unit)
HAMECH Operation manual AZSD-180,250.500,1000
36
SE4/E controller scheme
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Appendix E
State Boiler Permit Form
Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Labor Standards and Safety
Mechanical Inspection
Notification of New Boiler Installation
Alaska Statute 18.60.200 require that the installer of a new boiler or pressure vessel provide the information
contained on this form and submit this information to the Department of Labor and Workforce Development,
Labor Standards and Safety Division, Mechanical Inspection Section. This must be submitted within 30 days of
installation at any commercial or residential (six families) site in the State of Alaska.
THIS FORM MAY BE EMAILED TO Anchorage.LSS-MI@alaska.gov; faxed to 907-269-4932 or mailed to
State of Alaska, DOLWD/LSS/Mechanical Inspection, 1251 Muldoon Road, Suite 113, Anchorage, AK 99504.
1)Date of Installation: ______________ Projected Date to be on-line: ______________
2)Name of BLR/PV Owner:
3)Mailing Address (for Owner): _________________________________________ __________
4)Address of Installation:
5)Specific Location of BLR/PV:
6)Installer contact phone number:
Location contact phone number:
7)Type of Boiler or Pressure Vessel:
8)Manufacture’s serial number or National Board Number:
9)BTU input of Boiler or Cubic Foot Volume of Pressure Vessel:
10)Contractor Name and signature:
11)Contractor’s License Number:
Biomass Heating System Condition Survey Silver Gulch Brewery
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
Appendix F
AJAX Boiler Cutsheet and Email Correspondence
1
Bolling, Lee
From:Joe Marrelli <jmarrelli@aceheaters.com>
Sent:Wednesday, September 19, 2018 1:19 PM
To:Bolling, Lee
Subject:RE: SA-30
Everything I have says the SA-30 was an old high pressure steam boiler. If you need anything else let me know. Thanks.
Joe Marrelli
Inside Sales Manager
Ace Heaters
130 Klug Circle
Corona, CA 92880
Main: (951) 738-2230 ext. 312
Fax: (951) 281-4959
www.aceheaters.com
From: Bolling, Lee [mailto:bolling@coffman.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2018 2:09 PM
To: Joe Marrelli <jmarrelli@aceheaters.com>
Subject: RE: SA-30
Joe,
I just saw in your attachment that the SN series was formally the SA series:
Looks like it the SA-30 may be a steam boiler?
Lee Bolling, P.E.
Engineer, Mechanical Engineering
2
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
p 907.276.6664 | f 907.276.5042 www.coffman.com
From: Bolling, Lee
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2018 1:07 PM
To: 'Joe Marrelli' <jmarrelli@aceheaters.com>
Subject: RE: SA-30
Hi Joe,
Attached are a few photos of the nameplate.
Here is what I can see:
Gas Fired Water Heating Boiler
Model SA-30
Serial Number 47137
Unfortunately, nothing on the nameplate says “steam”, or “lbs/hr”.
Let me know what you think,
Thanks,
Lee Bolling, P.E.
Engineer, Mechanical Engineering
Coffman Engineers, Inc.
p 907.276.6664 | f 907.276.5042 www.coffman.com
From: Joe Marrelli <jmarrelli@aceheaters.com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 19, 2018 12:50 PM
To: Bolling, Lee <bolling@coffman.com>
Subject: SA-30
Hi Lee,
Sorry I could not find any info on this old SA-30 boiler. However all of my old notes show this should be a high pressure
steam boiler. I attached the old catalog sheet I have for this. see attachment. The name plate should confirm if this is a
steam unit. Can you take a clear pic of the complete name plate and send it to me? Thanks.
Joe Marrelli
Inside Sales Manager
Ace Heaters
130 Klug Circle
Corona, CA 92880
Main: (951) 738-2230 ext. 312
Fax: (951) 281-4959
www.aceheaters.com