Wood pellets have become the standard source of fuel for many homes across the world. Countries like Sweden pioneered the usage of this carbon-neutral fuel while now it is a rage in homes in the UK as well as US. There are several criteria and norms of quality that get followed while assessing the relative quality of the pellets.
DIN 51731
This is essentially a European standard of establishing the overall quality of wood pellets. While on the whole this is a holistic method of identifying the condition of the pellets it fails to take into account an essential factor like abrasion. In addition to this it also does not include any assessment of the process of manufacture to be done. Thus in essence the standard is lacking because of the absence of certain parameters.
Norm M 7135
This is traditionally originated from Austria. There are far more criteria included in this method of assessing the wood pellets. Factors like abrasion which are absent in the DIN 51731 are included in the Norm M 7135. The overall stability as well as hardness quotient of the pellets is ascertained before it is given this quality check. Using a Lignotester the wood pellets are stressed in order to ascertain their abrasiveness. The dust that is an outcome of this exercise is then evaluated for abrasion standards. If there is a lesser fraction of dust obtained it indicates a much more solid set of wood pellets which in turn yields a lower abrasion count.
How inspection is carried out
The institute of DINPlus is responsible for certifying and assessing the norms of quality in the wood pellets. The certification process is carried out by the certification members who strictly follow all the standards as laid down by the DIN Certco. There are several controls which get placed to secure high quality of the wood pellets. One additional guarantee seal is provided by the PVD or the Pellet Association Germany and the seal is called the GGuaranty seal. This seal has the same stringent set of criteria as recommended by DINPlus.
What criteria are ascertained?
There are many criteria associated with the wood pellets which are assessed before a seal of approval is provided. Aspects like the diameter of the pellets, the length, density, heating value, humidity, sulphur, chlorine, ash, nitrogen content as well as the levels of abrasion and press aid all are taken into account before assessment begins. It is to be noted that all quality checks are considered only till the point when the wood pellets are loaded. After that these aspects are not taken into account.
ONorm 7136
This is another norm which takes into account the quality of wood pellets during and after transportation. For example the pellets can actually go through plenty of wear and tear during the process of transportation. Therefore this standard emphasizes the quality of the bunker, supplier, as well as transportation vehicle too. Aspects like scales on board, quality of suction mechanisms as well as insulation from humidity levels are all calibrated. Thus this norm aims to establish a superior quality level during the transportation of wood pellets.
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