Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus (10) for use in rarefying a syngas so as to improve a calorific value of the syngas through the reduction of a concentration of tar from the syngas. The apparatus (10) comprises a gasification/pyrolysis means (12) such as a kiln (11), for generation of a flow of syngas from a raw material, and a cracking means (14). The cracking means (14) comprising a body (42) having an insulated internal volume (44) adapted to hold a heated bed of char. The flow of syngas from the kiln (11) is directed through the cracking means (14) where it comes into contact with the heated bed of char. Heavy long-chained carbon based molecules within the syngas undergo a cracking reaction and are broken into constituent lighter carbon based molecules. The method and apparatus of the present invention provides a rarefied output flow of syngas having an improved calorific quality and a substantially reduced concentration of tar.

Abstract: A kiln comprising a cylindrical drum (11) arranged to rotate about a generally horizontal central axis, the drum configured such that rotation will cause particulate material to flow from one end (13) of the drum to the other end (15). The one end being closed by an end assembly (23) fixed relative to a support structure. An inner face of the drum provides a plurality of ports (29) spaced about, and opening into, an interior of the drum,. The ports (29) being connected to the end assembly (23) via a set of passageways (27). The end assembly (23) having an opening (25) connected to a source of air (31) and positioned such that, on rotation of the drum, one or more passageways come into fluid communication with the opening for limiting air flow to the ports.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus (10) for use in rarefying a syngas so as to improve a calorific value of the syngas through the reduction of a concentration of tar from the syngas. The apparatus (10) comprises a gasification/pyrolysis means (12) such as a kiln (11), for generation of a flow of syngas from a raw material, and a cracking means (14). The cracking means (14) comprising a body (42) having an insulated internal volume (44) adapted to hold a heated bed of char. The flow of syngas from the kiln (11) is directed through the cracking means (14) where it comes into contact with the heated bed of char. Heavy long-chained carbon based molecules within the syngas undergo a cracking reaction and are broken into constituent lighter carbon based molecules. The method and apparatus of the present invention provides a rarefied output flow of syngas having an improved calorific quality and a substantially reduced concentration of tar.

Abstract: A kiln comprising a substantially cylindrical drum (11) supported from a support structure for rotation about its central axis whereby the drum is supported such that the central axis is generally horizontal and whereby the drum is configured and/or arranged such that rotation of the drum will cause fluid particulate material to flow from one end (13) to other end (15). The one end being associated with a fuel inlet (33) and the other end being provided with a discharge (37) for combustion products and heat. The inner face of the side wall of the drum is provided with a plurality of ports (29) which are located at spaced intervals along and around the interior of the drum and which open into the interior of the drum, the one end being closed by an end assembly (23) fixed relative to the support structure whereby the one end is in close abutting relationship with the end assembly. An opening (25) is provided in the end assembly, the opening connected to a source of air (31).