Definition of RDF
RDF (refuse derived fuel) has taken on an increasingly important role in the renewable energy industry. They are mainly fuels produced from non-hazardous waste for energy recovery through co-processing that serve as a supplement to fossil fuels The cement industry has been working on the use of RDF fuels derived from waste for energy recovery and to avoid as much as possible dependence on fossil fuels, which in the long run are more harmful to the environment and the ozone layer. RDF is the most efficient, economical and sustainable solution for harnessing the energy and raw materials contained in waste, which can be properly treated and used as fuel for production in the cement industry.
Problems with the use of RDF in cement plants
The RDF is transported in cement plants pneumatically via pipelines. Depending on the material properties of the RDF, a high level of material wear on the pipe system is caused, particularly in the area of pipe bends. To prevent this, in the past the inner walls of the pipelines were preferably lined with basalt or fused corundum. Compared to steel or stainless-steel pipes, this has already achieved a significant increase in service life.
Problem solving through the use of high-quality industrial ceramics
Compared to basalt and fused corundum, the service life of the piping systems could be significantly increased by using high-quality aluminum oxide ceramics. Due to the much smoother surface of this ceramic, as well as the much better tribological properties of this aluminum oxide ceramic compared to steel, stainless steel, basalt or fused corundum, the maintenance intervals could also be extended significantly, as blockages in the piping system could be prevented.