Analysis of the Effect of Varying Palm Kernel Particle Sizes on the Calorific Value of Palm Kernel Briquette

Aims: This work is aimed at analysing the effect of different palm kernel particle sizes on the calorific value of the briquettes produced using this material.

Study Design: The palm kernel shell used was obtained from the local market, after which it was taken to the grinder so as to get it into powdered form of different sizes. The powered palm kernel shell was then sieved so as to get the specific particles sizes using mesh of different sizes.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria, between August 2014 and February 2015.

Methodology: Three different sizes of mesh were used, 4.756, 2.36, and 0.6 mm labelled A, B and C respectively. The various sizes were then mixed with starch which is the binding material and poured into the briquetting machine operated at a constant pressure of 100 Kg/cm2. The briquette was made and dried. A e2k type combustion calorimeter was used to determine the calorific values of the briquettes.

Results: The results show that the calorific values are 18.415, 18.412 and 17.342 MJ/kg for the particle sizes 4.756, 2.36, and 0.6 mm respectively.

Conclusion: This result shows the calorific value of the palm kernel briquette increases with the increasing particle sizes.