Brief description of the functional capabilities of pellet heating

The feed system automatically supplies the pellet boiler with fuel.

Before fuel can be burned, it must enter the combustion chamber. Semi-automatic pellet boilers have a pellet hopper that the user fills manually. Fully automatic pellet heaters are connected to the hopper via a feeder system.

The feeder can be mechanical, pneumatic, or a combination of both. In pellet heating systems, mechanical feed systems often take the form of a screw conveyor. The rotating auger steadily transports pellets from storage to where they are needed. Another option is a vacuum feed system. Here, a suction turbine creates a vacuum that draws pellets from storage into the boiler through hoses.

The ideal conveyor system depends primarily on the type and volume of available space. Vacuum conveyor systems can cover distances of up to 25 meters. Screw conveyors are better suited for pellet heating systems located near the storage area. It’s important to remember that the distance between the warehouse and the road should not exceed 30 meters. Otherwise, vehicles will not be able to cover this distance. For more information and tips, visit the section on pellet heating .

Backfire protection prevents direct contact of flame with fuel supply

Automatic ignition and safety equipment are integral parts of a pellet heating system. Ignition occurs when pellets from the storage area enter the combustion chamber. Built-in lambda probes and flue gas temperature sensors continuously monitor the combustion process. Heat from the combustion chamber warms a heat exchanger surrounded by water. The water then transfers heat to the heating circuit. If the temperature drops below the required level, the boiler automatically restarts. Ideally, a wood-burning heating system is combined with a buffer tank. This stores hot water and makes it available when needed.

An important feature of a wood-burning heating system is a backfire prevention device. During combustion, the fire usually burns in a controlled manner. However, in rare cases, flames can backfire and damage the exhaust system. In the worst case, they come into contact with fuel still outside the combustion chamber. To prevent this, backfire prevention devices are installed. The most common methods include drip trays and rotary shutoff valves.