Energy & Biomass

• Bridging — moist biomass forms stable arches over the outlet blocking all flow • Ratholing — fuel channels through a narrow opening while most material hangs in place • Self-heating and fire risk — biological degradation generates heat that can lead to spontaneous ignition • Condensation and clumping — temperature differences between inside and outside create condensation causing pellets to swell and stick together • Mould growth and biological contamination during humid standstill periods • Mechanical wear on extraction systems from compacted, stuck material • Uneven fuel quality to the combustion plant due to FIFO violations (first in, first out)

Biomass blocks silos due to the material's natural properties: 1. Fibrous structure: Wood chips, bark and straw have irregular shapes that interlock and form stable bridges, even over wide outlets. 2. Hygroscopicity: Biomass actively absorbs moisture. Pellets can increase in volume by 30–50% when wetted, creating enormous pressure against silo walls. 3. Biological activity: Unlike minerals, biomass is organic and decomposes. This process generates heat (up to 70–80°C) and can in worst cases lead to smouldering fires that are extremely difficult to extinguish. 4. Compaction: Under its own pressure in tall silos, biomass compresses into an almost solid mass at the bottom layer. Extraction screws and feeders cannot break the material loose. 5. Seasonal variations: Winter operation with cold outdoor air and a warm, humid silo creates heavy condensation that worsens all the above problems.

Blue Power offers comprehensive solutions for the energy sector's silo challenges: 🔹 Gentle mechanical cleaning: We use methods that remove blockages without damaging the silo's internal lining or extraction systems. Especially important for silos with temperature monitoring and fire suppression systems. 🔹 Thermal mapping: When self-heating is suspected, we use thermal cameras to map hotspots before cleaning. Safety first — always. 🔹 Preventive flow aids: Installation of vibration plates, air cannons or slide coatings that reduce friction and prevent material build-up. 🔹 ATEX-certified operations: Biomass dust is explosive. All our equipment and procedures comply with the ATEX directive for work in explosive zones. 🔹 Maintenance agreements with seasonal focus: We plan inspections and cleaning in line with the plant's operational cycle — intensive maintenance before the heating season.