Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for achieving fast pyrolysis of wood and other carbonaceous solids in rotary reactors. Novel heating, feeding and condensing methods result in high oil yields near those currently achieved with more complicated fast pyrolysis systems. High intensity burners are arranged and controlled to produce high heating rates and uniform temperature of the rotating cylindrical walls of the reactors. The feeding system delays the onset of pyrolysis until the solids fall onto the heated kiln walls. The pyrolysis gases and vapors are rapidly withdrawn and quenched with recycled liquids. The first condenser incorporates a clean out nozzle. Char products are readily separated and discharged into a heat exchanger where heat is recovered and used together with heat from reactor flue gas to dry the solids prior to being fed to the reactor.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for achieving improved throughput capacity of indirectly heated rotary kilns used to produce pyrolysis products such as shale oils or coal oils that are susceptible to decomposition by high kiln wall temperatures is disclosed. High throughput is achieved by firing the kiln such that optimum wall temperatures are maintained beginning at the point where the materials enter the heating section of the kiln and extending to the point where the materials leave the heated section. Multiple high velocity burners are arranged such that combustion products directly impact on the area of the kiln wall covered internally by the solid material being heated. Firing rates for the burners are controlled to maintain optimum wall temperatures.