Pyrolysis Method

A simple unit has been developed for generation of pyrolysis gas and ail (see figure (left)). A 4-in. diameter stainless steel
pipe is used as the reactor. A6V4 in. diameter,'I2 in. thick flange is welded toone end. A6-in. diameter plate is halted to the
flange with an asbestos gasket between the flange and plate. The other end of the reactor is closed by welding a 6Y-in. di-
ameter, L/2-in.thick plate to the pipe. Both end plates are fitted with %-in. stainless steel tube fittings.
The reactor is heated using a large muffle furnace. We use a Thermolyne Model No. CP-7300 with a 10 in. X 11 in. X
16 in. chamber. The case of the furnace has heen grounded t o prevent electrical shock. The top heating element has been
removed and holes have been drilled through the ease and insulation brick to allow for outside connections (see figure
(right)).
-*- WR"L",,, "",, d Ex::,.

Stainless steel tubing isused toremove the pyrolysis gasand oil from thereactor and to introduce any desired gas into
the reactor. A pressure relief valve on the inlet side is a safety measure to allow release of gas, if the outlet becomes plugged.
If pyrolysis oil or other products are t o he collected, a condenser can be attached to the outlet tubing.
Wood and waste products have been pyrolyzed using this unit. Pyrolysis oil and gases have been collected and ana-
lyzed.

Weyerhaeuser Company Michael A. Karnofski

Longview, Washington 98632 Richard Rsinone

Volume 55, Number 7,July 1978 / 475