Gasifier
A gasifier differs from a combustor in that the amount of air or oxygen available inside the gasifier is carefully controlled so that only a relatively small portion of the fuel burns completely. This “partial oxidation” process provides the heat. Rather than burning, most of the carbon-containing feedstock is chemically broken apart by the gasifier’s heat and pressure, setting into motion chemical reactions that produce “syngas.” Syngas is primarily hydrogen, carbon monoxide and other gaseous constituents; the composition of which can vary depending upon the conditions in the gasifier and the type of feedstock.
Proposed list of Ethanol plants
Each year, the EPM staff compiles the most comprehensive list of proposed ethanol projects—those between conception and construction—that we can verify. Over the years, some of these projects have disappeared, some have been on the list several times and others are producing ethanol. In 2008, the list’s fifth year, EPM offers updates on 118 projects representing nearly 8 billion gallons of annual capacity.
This year’s list comes at a time when many in the industry are dealing with an uncertain economic landscape and possibly an uncertain future. Raising equity has been a large concern for future producers, and a number of the projects listed here reported significant delays and challenges associated with funding their respective plants. There are indications that with the passing of the Energy Independence & Security Act of 2007, investors and bankers may begin to view the market with optimism instead of skepticism.
The increasing cost of building materials is another major concern for future producers. Steel and copper prices are rising, and some contractors are receiving letters from steel suppliers announcing increased prices for structural and reinforcing steel. “AK Steel (Corp.) has upped its spot selling price for hot-rolled coil $30 per net ton, effective immediately, thereby bringing prices to $700 for April shipments,” according to Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries Inc. Price increases are blamed on increases in the cost of raw materials and energy.
