Waste is fast becoming a popular commodity within the fuel stream of Energy Supply.  In order to ensure it’s stability and indeed sustainability in the industry, fuel quality must become and remain a priority topic of conversation at the very beginning of the supply chain.  

A higher quality of feedstock can mean higher levels of plant efficiency, but for some businesses that supply waste derived fuels to Energy from Waste plants, fuel quality is often seen as ‘someone else’s problem’.

This should not be the case, as the overall quality of the RDF and SRF materials supplied could affect its potential value and subsidy OFGEM payback.

QUALITY OF RDF

As there are no strict regulations over RDF, minimal processing and investment is required to produce it. Whilst this has been positive in leading to a rise in the production of RDF in the UK, far too often the environmental impact is not considered, harmful contaminants are found within the material and recyclables such as ferrous metals are often not removed.

A thorough Waste Composition Analysis can help to build a reliable profile of your waste stream, meaning you know exactly what is within your material. By understanding these levels, you help the end user by correcting specific issues at your end, such as removing recyclables and contaminants which could damage plant equipment.

QUALITY OF SRF

When purchasing SRF, operators are often more meticulous over the levels of Chlorine (Cl), the total Moisture Content (MC%) and Calorific Value (CV). This is where a chemical analysis can prove invaluable to understanding fuel quality.

A good UKAS accredited laboratory can accurately determine the levels of different parameters within an SRF. This helps to ensure that the end user is getting the most from their fuel, whilst protecting their equipment from harmful contaminants.

Whilst we are yet to see standardised fuel grades and specifications in Waste to Energy, having a definitive recording of fuel quality will ensure high standards and help to provide a better end product.

For Waste Management companies, this could prove advantageous through greater negotiation on gate fees and supporting the industry drive to Net Zero.

HOW CAN AHK HELP?

Alfred H Knight is fully equipped to provide accurate sampling and chemical analysis for a range of alternative fuels.

As experts in alternative fuels testing, our services provide our clients with clear and accurate information on the composition of their waste streams and help them to monitor their waste handling and management.

We operate from strategically located, UKAS accredited hubs across the UK, meaning we can deliver swift results, helping you to understand your material sooner.

Click here to contact us and receive a quote for our RDF and SRF services.