Filter system for wood heating in the megawatt range – A project that has opened up new dimensions

Insight into a major project for exhaust gas purification for biomass plants

The demands placed on modern wood-fired heating systems and biomass plants are constantly increasing, particularly in the areas of flue gas purification and particulate matter filtration. At the same time, the output of many systems is increasingly reaching the megawatt range. The fact that such filter systems for wood-fired heating systems can now be reliably implemented is based on years of accumulated experience. A look at a project completed two years ago illustrates how this journey began.

"On this scale

every detail is crucial"

“I oversaw the project from planning to implementation,” recalls Gilbert Lagnaz, sales partner in western Switzerland. “With a filter system of this size, every detail is crucial. Issues such as space requirements, logistics, and infrastructure must be clarified early on, especially with biomass plants in the megawatt range.”

Installation of a filter system for wood heating: When dimensions become a challenge

It quickly became clear on the construction site that this project surpassed the norm. Manfred Glatzfelder, responsible for the assembly of one of the two filters, explained: "The basic structure was already in place after just one day, but the dimensions were in a different league." At approximately 4.60 meters high, 3.70 meters wide, and weighing nearly 5 tons per filter, the system presented significant challenges – from production and transport to on-site assembly.

Infrastructure and planning for large-scale plants

Especially with filter systems for large wood-fired heating systems, infrastructure and preparation play a crucial role. "You have to be equipped for such dimensions," explains Glatzfelder. "Cranes, vehicles, and sufficient space are essential, both in production and on the construction site." The fact that the implementation went smoothly was due to the professional preparation: "We knew what was needed, which made many things easier."

Exhaust gas purification in the megawatt range requires teamwork

“In projects of this scale, many trades work together,” explains Lagnaz. “Clean coordination is crucial, especially when implementing exhaust gas cleaning systems for wood-fired heating plants.” This is also evident on the construction site: “Everyone has to know what everyone else is doing. We work hand in hand, otherwise it won’t work,” adds Glatzfelder.

Difference between small and large filter systems

The difference between smaller systems and megawatt-scale filter plants isn't just about size. "Everything is bigger and therefore more complex," says Glatzfelder. "Every component takes more time, especially for assembly and welding." From a project perspective, many things change as well: "It's not simply a larger project – it's a different league altogether."

An early step into the large-scale plant sector

In retrospect, this project was an important step in development. At the time, many projects were still operating on a smaller scale, but this plant already demonstrated what is possible in the megawatt range for wood-fired heating systems and biomass plants. Much of the experience gained from this project continues to be incorporated into new filter systems for industrial applications and district heating systems.

Conclusion: Experience in flue gas cleaning for large wood-fired heating systems

This project demonstrates that implementing filter systems for wood-fired heating systems in the megawatt range requires more than just technology. Crucial factors include planning, experience, and a well-coordinated team. Or, as Manfred Glatzfelder puts it:

"Everything is bigger, but that's exactly what makes it exciting."

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Gilbert Lagnaz

Sales partner Western Switzerland

Manfred Glatzfelder

Production mechanic assembly