Vencor Introduces First Torrefaction Machine

 

Vencor International, Boulder, Colo., USA, reports that it has introduced the first torrefaction unit using recently acquired technology. The company says the machine has been completed and is now online.

 

The machine, according to Vencor, is the first of its kind and is capable of producing 30,000 tons of torrefied wood annually. Vencor's business plan includes several of the machines operating at full capacity to meet the growing demand for its products. 

As a result of the company's recent acquisition of torrefaction technology, the machines manufactured by Virginia-based Torretherm LLC are produced for a fraction of the cost of other machines with similar capabilities. The reduced cost of the machines allows Vencor to manufacture its torrefied wood products at a price necessary to compete in the alternative energy marketplace, it explains. 

Vencor is in the business of providing torrefied wood products to customers around the world. Torrefied wood is made from timber field waste using a process called torrefaction. Torrefied wood is a renewable energy source that can replace traditional coal in coal-fired power plants around the world. 

James Gaspard, CEO of Vencor International, said that "we are pleased to have the first machine completed and in operation. Our plan is to have three of these machines operating during 2015. We are now moving very aggressively to capture as much business as possible and we couldn't have done it without the Torretherm machine. We recently announced that we have received a purchase order to produce 3,000 tons of torrefied wood called Bio-coal. This order will be produced using the new machine. We are always looking for ways to trim our costs to compete with other renewable energy products. The money saved in capital expenditures will be used to maximize production to complete the orders that we have in hand. This machine is capable of generating approximately $4 million dollars in annual revenue for us. We will be placing an order for our second machine in the next few weeks."