Biochar Producer
Training and certification
Biochar Producer
Objective
Learners will develop practical skills for safely operating a kiln, with a focus on pyrolysis, biomass preparation, and maintaining proper safety protocols from ignition to quenching and unloading.
Online training
1. Kiln Ignition, Biomass Preparation, and Pyrolysis:
- Understanding how to light the kiln using kindling and determining the optimal size of biomass.
- Ensuring the quench valve under the kiln is closed during the pyrolysis process.
- Learning pyrolysis: Understanding how to maintain an effective flame-curtain pyrolysis process by covering any flames with fresh biomass at an appropriate rate.
- Preparing biomass feedstock including the use of varying sizes if appropriate: Knowing when to add larger pieces of biomass during the earlier stages of the burn and smaller pieces toward the end.
- Safety protocols for using tools and equipment and proper handling of biomass and the safe management of the pyrolysis process quenching and the removal of biochar from the kiln.
2. Working as a Team
- Engaging with other team members to ensure the correct and safe system of work and communicating information to others clearly and accurately.
Practical exam
Biomass Preparation and Tool Safety:
Demonstrating the correct preparation of biomass, including using tools, and following all relevant safety protocols.
Kiln Operation:
- Igniting the kiln with kindling and ensuring a stable fire spanning the length of the kiln.
- Maintaining an effective flame-curtain pyrolysis process by covering flames at an appropriate rate and with suitably prepared biomass.
- Controlling the quench valve: Making sure it stays closed during pyrolysis and checking the biochar is cool enough before opening it to drain the quench water.
- Loading the kiln: Adding biomass appropriately to optimise the biochar production process.