Ash handling refers to the method of collection, conveying, interim storage and load out of various types of ash residue left over from solid fuel combustion processes.

 

The most common types of ash include bottom ash, bed ash, fly ash and ash clinkers resulting from the combustion of coal, wood and other solid fuels.

Ash handling systems may employ pneumatic ash conveying or mechanical ash conveyors.

 

A typical pneumatic ash handling system will employ vacuum pneumatic ash collection and ash conveying from several ash pick up stations-with delivery to an ash storage silo for interim holding prior to load out and transport. Pressurized pneumatic ash conveying may also be employed.

 

Coarse ash material such as bottom ash is most often crushed in clinker grinders (crushers) prior to being transported in the ash conveyor system.