FEECO’s rotary dryers and kilns can accommodate numerous fuel sources. The chart below highlights the equipment and their available fuel source options:
| Natural Gas/Propane | Fuel Oil | Electricity | Biomass Combustion | Waste Heat | Biogas | |
| Direct Rotary Dryer | x | x | x | x | x | |
| Indirect Rotary Dryer | x | x | x | x | x | x |
| Direct Rotary Kiln | x | x | x | x | ||
| Indirect Rotary Kiln | x | x | x | x | x |
Natural Gas/Propane. Natural gas or propane is a fuel option for both direct and indirect rotary kilns and dryers. While it is typically available in the developed world, there any many areas in the world where natural gas is not available, and therefore, not an option. Additionally, many countries are making tremendous efforts to reduce carbon emissions and move toward more environmentally friendly fuel sources.
Fuel Oil (diesel, #6, etc.). Fuel oil is ideal for remote locations, as natural gas pipelines are often limited to populated areas and developed countries. Additionally, fuel oil is not usually used when product color requirements are strict, because fuel oil can leave a soot and discolor the end product.
Electricity. Electricity is an option for indirect rotary dryers and indirect rotary kilns. Heating coils, or rods, next to the drum’s shell radiate heat through the shell. An advantage to electricity, compared to other fuel sources, is that is no emissions or exhaust gases are produced, and thus no gas treatment or exhaust system is needed. A disadvantage to electricity is that it can be costly.
Biomass Combustion. Biomass combustion is another energy source – burning both dry fuel and wet fuel. This option is available on any dryer project that is running temperatures in the dryer below 1,200 degrees F.
Waste Heat. FEECO can provide the technology to utilize waste heat from an already existing process. Whenever possible, we would use waste heat as the sole energy source, not just as a supplement.
Biogas. FEECO can also work with biogas (e.g. from anaerobic digesters). If there is enough gas available, we prefer to use biogas exclusively and not just as a supplement.
Overall, the ideal fuel source used to operate your rotary drum can vary based on location, accessibility and cost. To help determine the best fuel source for your needs, contact a FEECO expert today!