Heat utilisation from aerobic composting of agricultural wastes

The heat released during aerobic composting process of agricultural wastes like manure, straw, lake reeds were evaluated by help of laboratory scale equipment including composting camera (0, 05 m(3)), additional heater and heated concrete panel (1,0 x 0,5 x 0,1 m) for piglets floors heating. The fan provides an air circulation in the camera both trough compost and air-to-liquid heat exchanger. The heat transfer from camera to panel was provided by liquid heat carrier system having no pump. The characteristics of panel surface temperature were obtained in dependence oil heater's vertical position upon panel, on heater's power and on heat insulation degree of heater, pipelines and part of panel's surfaces.