Improved Woodheater Emissions Standards
air quality in many parts of Australia and New Zealand. Most states and territories in Australia require these heaters to be compliant with the Australian/New Zealand Standards AS/NZS 4012 and 4013. These standards specify a test method for determining particle emissions and a maximum allowable particle emissions limit. The test is conducted under carefully controlled conditions that prescribe fuel weight, fuel type, fuel loading geometry and length of burn cycles. The method was based on the premise that, with proper instruction, householders would operate woodheaters in accordance with sound operating principles. However, the test does not account for a range of variables associated with in-service operation, such as the premature turn-down of primary air controls and overnight smouldering, with recent studies suggesting that the standard test does not fully reflect in-service performance, particularly for low-emission woodheaters. The joint Australia/New Zealand Standards committee (CS-062) dealing with woodheaters recognised the need for the Standards to better reflect the in-service performance of woodheaters and to drive further reductions in in-service emissions. To this end, CS-062 established a sub-committee, with representation from governments, the woodheater industry and the scientific community, to develop improved woodheater standards that will address current deficiencies. This paper presents the progress to date of the sub-committee and presents a working model of how governments, industry and the scientific community can work together to achieve environmental goals.
Keywords: woodheaters, emission factors, standards, particles