[Stoves] Small Space Heaters by TLUD: Was Re: Released smoke as % of fuel

[AJH]

On Sun, 25 Nov 2007 08:15:44 -0600, Paul S. Anderson wrote:

>Andrew and all,
>
>I have enjoyed the radiant heat of the LPG patio heaters.  LPG is so 
>nice, but I
>think a TLUD with biomass just might work.

I can assure you it does work, I can show some photos of a simple 1.2m
high by 125mm diameter steel ventilation duct running natural draught
tlud with pellets and a diffuse flame.
>
>Here in India and many places, the people sit or squat low to the ground.  So
>perhaps the total height might be only 1.2 meters (about 4 feet).  A meter of
>fuel capacity in a TLUD could pyrolyze for 90 minutes and give a good flame at
>the top.  Or make a shorter one and set it at the desired height.

Yes but I would work on the secondary combustion part, the diffuse
flame is the weak point, it probably has low emissivity and most of
its heat is lost as a convection current. We need to look at a
premixed burner, especially a surface effect type, whereby the flame
heat actually heats the combustion surface. It's the radiant heat from
this combustion surface that will benefit those around it.
>
>The domed reflective heater could act as a collection hood with a vertical
>emissions outlet/chimney if the unit is to be used indoors (need serious
>testing before recommending that.)

I'm thinking more along the lines of the shape of the hanging mantle
in a Tilley lamp.
>
>I am thinking of a forced-air TLUD, so no need for chimney draft.

Agreed but given the height of the device natural draught may work if
the fuel is very dry.
>
>To combine that space heater into a unit that could also allow simple 
>cooking is
>another interesting challenge.

Now that's asking a bit much!
AJH