[Gasification] Researching Plasma Arc Gasification

[Jeff Davis]

Peter wrote:
>The big cost of running an electric arc is the erosion of the graphite
>electrodes -- Which -- I have already learned -- occurs much less in a DC
>system.


The folklore says that, the electrode will not erode as much if your
feedstock is rich in carbon.

For one of the electrodes I used tungsten rod (TIG) from a welding supply
shop and held a cluster of them in a brass compression fitting.




> Have you ever studied how they made gas in the 1800's??
>
> Producer gas is way to low value --


I also have studied the history of the gas-producer and, with respect,
disagree with the above statement. I think Samuel said it best:

Quote from Samuel S. Wyer, “Gas Producers” 1907

“The water-gas process is intermittent, complicated, and not very
efficient.” And further in the book. “Producer gas combines simplicity,
efficiency, continuity, and flexibility in one compact and harmonious
unit. Gas-producers for the manufacture of producer gas are simple in
construction; can be used through a large range of sizes; are efficient;
do not make a residue to be disposed of; can be used with almost any
available fuel; and can be operated continuously. The reasons just given
account for the supremacy of the producer-gas process over its
competitors.”

End of quote:




> Also -- Soderberg-type composite electrodes for arc smelting furnace was
> developed in the late 1800's -- that is how to roll them oneself!!
>
> Purest grade carbon black powder is easily extracted by destructive
> distillation of used car tires --


I bet charcoal would also work.


++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++


Here’s why I am perusing producer gas.

            *************************
This applies only if Terra Preta works out and the gas-producer out puts
gas AND charcoal (enabling technology) not gas and ash (destructive
technology, WWII gasifier).

            *************************


The Mennonites diesel generator is part of the problem and not part of the
solution.

Producer gas is part of the solution and not part of the problem. Here’s why:

The gas-producer will fuel your heat device, enrich your soil (Terra
Preta) and sequester CO2 from the atmosphere.

The plasma arc reactor needs an out side source of “energy” to function.
The producer gas generator is self fueled, it burns part of the biomass
for its activation energy.

The biodigester is a good thing but it’s soil enrichment rots away in time
leaving the soil as before, plus not sequestering CO2 at this point.

Alcohol is fine also but has the same soil enrichment & CO2 problem as the
biodigester.




Best regards,


Jeff




-- 
Jeff Davis

Some where 20 miles south of Lake Erie, USA