The BEK (Biochar Experimenter’s Kit) is a reconfiguration of GEK components to create a multi-mode pyrolysis machine for characterized biochar and bio-oil making. The BEK supports multiple pyrolysis process modes in direct combustion (updraft, TLUD and stratified downdraft), indirect combustion retort, and sweep gas through bed heat transfer.
A mixer box let’s the user choose between these different modes, or mix them in desired combinations, in real time. Temperature, residence time, and ramp rate are similarly controlled by the user, with instruments ports and thermocouples provided to monitor the results.
The BEK can be run in either batch or continuous feed mode. An auger feed brings fuel in from an offset hopper at the top, controlled by a level switch in the reactor. Char is similarly taken off the bottom via a packing auger that fills a hopper oriented horizontally on the ground along side the BEK.
The BEK ensures clean combustion no matter what the fuel or pyrolysis mode via a swirl burner with propane assist and silicone nitroide “always on” lighting elements. No more smoking out the neighborhood or country side with your latest biochar test reactor. The BEK will light up on propane to burn off early pyrolysis gas, self-supports on pyrolysis gas once running, and again uses propane at shut down to prevent the usual smoky end to a run.
The unit includes a condensing circuit between the reactor and the flare to separate out bio-oil if desired. The condensing circuit uses a spiral of metal flex pipe and a cyclone to separate the liquids. This condensing spiral is replaceable with a non-condensing straight pipe which takes all gasses and liquids to the burner for combustion.
BEK Reactors and Add-ons
2600 BEK Level IV, ready to assemble – $4,995- TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE
- Fully welded unit, ready to assemble and run
- Automated auger feed
- Automated char off-take
- Real time, multi-mode running
- Thermocouples and thermocouple reader for process control
- Ejector driven tar gas drive
- Control residence time, pyrolysis mode, and temperature
- Produce fully characterized biochar
2601 BEK Bio-oil condensing circuit – $595- TEMPORARILY UNAVAILABLE
- Condense and collect bio-oil from the BEK
Please note- as of 1/11 we have closed the order queue for the BEK. Please check our news blog for an update when we are taking new orders.