Abstract: An improved mass fuel combustion system can be designed in a variety of embodiments and alternatives, including designs which include independent gas feeds, independent gas pulsing, independently controllable vibration systems and an overall control system which can coordinate a host of parameters for optimal combustion. One design includes overlapping grate elements (50) through which combustion gas is introduced and may include apertures to introduce a pulsed mix gas as well as a separate temperature control gas. Efficient poppet designs (44) can be used to provide an economical and efficient combustion system.