Safe, efficient and compliant handling solutions for alternative fuels and raw materials – from reception and storage to precise feeding.
BEUMER Group offers an integrated approach to alternative fuels and raw materials (AFR) handling, with solutions designed for reliability, safety and performance.
Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials (AFR) – including refuse-derived fuel (RDF), biomass, used tyres and industrial waste – are increasingly replacing conventional fossil fuels in energy-intensive industries such as cement and power generation. Raw materials are also used as a substitute for primary resources such as limestone, with both trends being driven by the need to reduce CO₂ emissions and rising emission permit costs.
This transition is being driven by a combination of regulatory incentives, rising energy costs, and global climate commitments. At the same time, advances in automation, fuel inspection and real-time quality monitoring are making AFR integration more practical, scalable and reliable.
Handled correctly, AFR supports lower carbon emissions, reduced landfill dependency and improved long-term fuel security.
Successful AFR adoption is not simply coal substitution. It requires a technically advanced material handling system designed to manage complexity and risk.
| MATERIAL VARIABILITY Fluctuating moisture content, particle size and calorific value can disrupt combustion and increase equipment wear. |
SAFETY & OPERATIONAL RISK Storage and handling may introduce hazards such as blockages, fire, explosion and odours. |
| COMPLIANCE & PERMITTING Complex approval processes, strict emissions standards and lengthy timelines can delay projects and increase costs. |
PUBLIC ACCEPTANCE Concerns around health, safety, emissions and traffic can create resistance even after permits are granted. |
BEUMER Group applies its extensive engineering expertise and industry experience to support customers throughout the transition to alternative fuels and raw materials handling.
Our AFR systems are individually tailored to your operation and the specific materials being handled. Beyond equipment supply, we support design concepts, feasibility studies, structural design and delivery, electrical control systems as well as erection and commissioning.
As a long-term partner, we guide you from initial concept through commissioning and ongoing operation – helping stakeholders understand the AFR transition while ensuring your system directly supports carbon reduction, waste diversion and sustainability reporting.
Head of Sales Cement
