3-DIMENSIONAL MODELING OF A MUNICIPAL SOLID-WASTE INCINERATOR

An extensive series of experimental tests were carried out at the Sheffield municipal solid-waste incinerator plant (30 MW) from September 1988 to July 1989. The purpose was to investigate the influence of the design and operating parameters on the performance of the incinerator, which burns domestic and commercial wastes (500 tonne/day). The following measurements were made around the plant: temperature, pressure, flue-gas composition analysis, and determination of physical and chemical properties of the refuse. Several other measurements were also made, to monitor the effect of varied operating parameters on the performance characteristics of the incinerator. A finite-difference mathematical model was used to predict the three-dimensional reacting flows (gaseous phase) within the incinerator geometry. Experimental measurements of gas composition, temperature and exit velocity were compared with model predictions. Modelling results correctly indicated trends, and were invaluable for the interpretation of the incinerator performance data. It is intended that this test data and the mathematical modelling may be used for design improvements for municipal solid-waste incinerators; this will substantially increase the efficiency, reduce emissions of pollutants and reduce the plant maintenance costs.