Preliminary study on the use of solar energy to drive biomass briquetting machines

Indonesia is highly potential in biomass resources. However, the use of biomass as energy resource is still limited and inefficient. One of the best strategies in optimizing biomass energy utilization is through densification methods where biomass density increases, and costs associated with transportation and storage are reduced. To carry out densification of biomass waste, reliable tools are required. Biomass waste is usually found in rural areas where inadequate transportation access and the unavailability of electricity networks are often the issues too. On the other hand, Indonesia has abundant sunlight intensity throughout the year to be utilized as a renewable energy source. This study examines opportunities for the utilization of solar energy (PV systems) to drive biomass briquette machines in the rural areas. This research was carried out through several stages including literature study, data collection on the intensity of solar radiation, and calculation and preparation of machine design. The target is to prepare a design for the briquettes pressing machine powered by solar energy. This preliminary investigation concluded that the briquette pressing machine with a production capacity of four briquettes in a single press, was able to be operated using 100 Wp solar panels equipped with a 12-volt 33Ah battery. To drive a hydraulic jack, a 12-volt DC actuator is used at low speeds. The machine is capable of producing briquettes in the form of cubical with the size of 2.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 cm.