The research addresses the calibration and validation of our disc screen computer model through field testing of equipment at refuse-processing facilities and the use of the model to evaluate disc-screening technology. Disc screens are planned for, or already incorporated into, a substantial number of refuseprocessing facilities. Calibration and validation of the disc-screening model will result in its use by the solid waste industry to predict and improve the performance of screens for improving the quality of refusederived fuel (RDF). Having a basic design tool, the industry will be in a position to apply basic engineering design to the screen process, improve the efficiency of screening, and reduce overall processing costs. Further cost savings will be realized at the thermal conversion facility as a consequence of burning a high-quality RDF as opposed to a lower grade RDF.Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications as described by the awardee:The results of the research will be applied by system designers and equipment vendors to improve and optimize the ability of disc screens to remove efficiently and economically noncombustible components from the RDF stream. Similar design information as well as a theoretical model we developed have been used by system designers and equipment vendors in the case of trommel screens.
