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6.0 Catalytic Combustor
6.1 How it works
The Waimakariri ULEB uses a catalytic combustor to reduce emissions more effectively and control burn rates.
This combustor is fitted in the front top portion of the firebox, above the front baffle in the exhaust gas stream.
This combustor is made of thin high-grade stainless steel sheets encased in a thicker outer body and is coated
with a hi-tech chemical composition. The particles within the combustion gases burn off when they pass through
this coated combustor.
6.2 Best practices to enhance the life of catalytic combustor
The catalytic combustor is the most critical part of the Waimakariri ULEB. The following precautions must be
taken while operating the Waimakariri ULEB.
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Always use well-seasoned natural firewood.
Read section 4.0 carefully for permitted wood fuels for the
Waimakariri ULEB. Never use wet, painted, highly resinous, or driftwood. Never burn garbage or plastic
material.
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Keep the damper open until the catalytic combustor becomes sufficiently hot
(approximately 20~25 mins).
During the start-up phase, the lower firebox temperature creates a larger volume of unburnt particles. These
particles will tend to adhere to the combustor’s surfaces due to insufficient temperature. If the damper is
closed during start-up, these may block the combustor and make it less efficient.
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Avoid leaving the door open for a long period.
Too much air will cool the combustion process and the flue,
which can result in the combustion gases spilling out of the door.
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Always make sure that the stainless steel flame arrestor plate is installed in front of the combustor.
Direct
exposure of flames to combustor can damage the overall integrity of the combustor.
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Regular monitoring and cleaning of the combustor are essential to maintain the combustor’s integrity and
effectiveness.
Read the following sections 6.3 & 6.4 for monitoring and cleaning of Waimakariri catalytic
combustor.
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Handle your combustor with care
– Take care while handling the combuster so as not to damage the
combustor plates as this could reduce the flow through the combustor.
