Self-Contained Wood Powered Genset

Self-Contained Wood Powered Genset ENERGY Wood Burners (65) 34-4-28 The "Power Pallet" consists of a gasifier, motor, generator, controls and fuel hopper that sit on a pallet, but you can also power it with pallets, or nearly any other type of waste, woody material. "We just introduced the Power Pallet in March, but it has been years in development," says Rachael Norman at All Power Labs (APL). "The gasifier control unit automatically adjusts the fuel-air mix for the biomass materials being burned. We even have it set up now with automatic feed for fuel and ash outtake." Norman cautions that like any wood-burning stove, it needs some attention, mostly to make sure the hopper stays full of fuel. Aside from that, the automated system basically runs itself once the desired power production has been set. "It is easy to learn and understand," she says. "In 20 min., we taught a 12-year old to understand each part and what it does and how to start and operate the system." All Power Labs is a leading source of wood gasification research and development, as well as components and whole units. Their collaborative approach to research provides anyone free (online only) plans for gasification units, their components and applications. Research is encouraged with the only stipulation being that results are shared with the APL community. The new genset consists of a 1,000-cc Kohler V-twin, water-cooled engine. It's round tooth belt drives a 4-pole ST genhead. This allows for variable rpm's to match desired power output. According to APL, the round tooth belt is much more efficient than V-belt or chain drives, claiming up to 98 percent efficiency. The unit claims 10 kW power at 2400 engine rpm's and 1800 rpm's at the genhead. If less power is needed, engine speed can be dropped as low as 1,500 rpm's and still handle surge loads. The design includes a pto to run chippers, pumps or other equipment. Positioned to the side of the skid, there is room for mounting a pulley or gear drive on the shaft as well. The Power Pallet is available as a completely assembled, automated 10 kW system for $17,995. Buyers can also choose a manual system they assemble on site for $9,995. For 15 kW output models, add $5,000 to the manual and fully automatic system prices. For 20 kW output, add $10,000. "Our automated, fully assembled unit is far and away the most popular," says Norman. "All you do is add oil to the engine and pack the drum filter with sawdust or charcoal. It generally takes about five minutes to start the system." Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, All Power Labs, 1010 Murray Ave., Berkeley, Calif. 94710 (ph 510 592-4435; gek@allpowerlabs.org; www.allpowerlabs.org)

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