[Stoves] Fuel classification system

[frank]

Tom and stovers,

Tom Miles wrote:

>Crispin,
>
>Properties of Species used for cookstoves
>
>It would be useful to identify the species that are used in stoves. We can
>start with the douglas fir softwood that has been used by Aprovecho and in
>the residential testing. Red oak is the hardwood that is the main reference
>fuel for heating stoves in the US. Canmet's emissions testing used douglas
>fir and red oak. We can comparese the properties of these hardwoods and
>softwood to the many species used in other parts of the world using
>available information for density, typical moisture, ash and heating value,
>chemical composition and burning behavior. The hardwood vs softwood
>classification covers the main physical differences. 
>
>I have seen some good area surveys in West africa that identify principal
>species used for fuel and charcoal. I have not seen similar information for
>Central america, Asia or other locations. 
>
>Tom      
>
>  
>
I think the approach should be to not classify based on the species but 
set up a classification system where the species of wood can fit into 
the system. The problem with a system based on species is that there are 
many types of fuel (like what Jeff is doing) that does not apply. Also 
there are differences between old trees vs young and the same tree 
species from wet area to slow growing dry areas. Then we mix wood when 
building a fire. etc.etc.

Frank



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