Hitachi Zosen Inova offers new grate block for WTE plants

Switzerland-based Hitachi Zosen Inova (HZI) describes its new DuoBlock product as “an innovation for the revision of reciprocating grates” for waste-to-energy (WTE) plants.

HZI says its new dual grate block, which can be made of cast iron or an alloyed metal to suit customer specificiations, is 206 millimeters (8.1 inches) wide, can save costs for clients and is designed for easier handling during revision. “The HZI DuoBlock is already considerably cheaper for our customers when purchased,” states Lorenz Mäussler, director global spare parts at HZI.

Mäussler, who was involved in the development of the block, adds, “It’s quicker to fit and reduces downtime and mounting costs during revision.”

The block comes with an additional mounting option in which blocks can be bolted together, or tension rods can be used, says HZI. The option facilitates replacement of individual grate blocks, adds the firm.

The DuoBlock weighs 35 percent less than two individual blocks, so it reduces wear on grate carriages and drives, according to HZI. The number of gaps between the grate blocks used is reduced by 50 percent, which reduces the risk of spreading and setting up grate rows and, thus, unplanned plant downtimes, adds the firm.

The new grate block can be used with all existing HZI R-series reciprocating grates, says the firm, and the grate block is available “in the classic HZI design and as a variant with primary air injection on the top.” Adds HZI, “Primary air supply on the top side reduces the tendency to clogging in special applications, thus reducing the thermal load on the grate blocks and increasing their service life.”