A reader recently asked why the biomeiler has different temperatures in the inner core, outer core, and mantle. I have touched on the topic in past posts, but it seems valuable to address the matter comprehensively. The biomeiler was built in the form of concentric cylinders. Details are shown in the main image. It has […]
Temperature Gradient Explained Read More »
The chart accompanying today’s post shows the temperatures measured in the biomeiler at a height of 4’ above the ground. This height marks the boundary between the pre-existing biomeiler and the recent extension. The data were collected by a thermocouple buried in the pile at that height at the very center of the inner core,
January Experimental Results, part 2 Read More »
In November, I wrote of the pools of water that have collected on top of the biomeiler. They continued to freeze over and melt open as the weather conditions fluctuated. Their presence hinges on how the weather alters the rate at which heat arrives from below and the rate at which it is removed from
The chart accompanying today’s post shows the temperatures measured in the biomeiler at a height of 4’ above the ground. This height marks the boundary between the existing biomeiler and the recent extension. The data were collected by a thermocouple buried in the pile at that height at the very center of the inner core,
November Experimental Results, part 2 Read More »
For the last two weeks, work has continued, quite unsteadily, on the extension to the outer shell, or “mantle,” of the biomeiler. Over these two weeks I have grown increasingly pleased that I decided to make only an upgrade and did not attempt a complete rebuild of the pile. The second trailer load of shavings
Biomeiler Mantle Extension Complete Read More »
Since the last post, I have been working steadily on the extension to the outer shell, or “mantle,” of the biomeiler. The mantle has the geometrical form of a ring with an inner radius of 3’, an outer radius of 6’, and a height of 28”. As such, it has a volume of 195 cubic
Biomeiler Mantle Extension Read More »
Today, nature provided me with a cool, crisp fall day, with a clear blue sky and I decided to enjoy the day outdoors. So, shortly after finishing the morning chores, I set myself to the task of extending the inner core of the biomeiler. The first step of the operation was to clear the insulating
Biomeiler Inner Core Extension Read More »
Possibly, after observing the great enjoyment and satisfaction I derive from my research with the biomeiler, Melissa was inspired to begin a composting experiment of her own. She had me make two wire mesh cylinders 3’ in diameter and 28” tall. In one cylinder, she alternated layers of thatch from the back yard pile and
Melissa’s Compost Bins Read More »
The graph shows the temperature in the chicken coop, the temperature of the air in the vent pipe coming from the biomeiler, and the temperature of the outdoor air. The electrical energy usage would be shown for any days when the electric heater was used, but it was not needed this month. All month long,
April Experimental Results Read More »
This morning, a couple we know from Church came by for some poultry manure to use in their garden. When I went to the compost pile I found that the coop litter I deposited there a few days ago has begun cooking. It was steaming, even in the summer heat (58F), and I could easily
Our Compost Pile Is Cooking Read More »