Alternative fuel — TDF

What is TDF?

TDF (Tire-Derived Fuel) is a fuel made by mechanically processing waste tyres into pieces of controlled size, with the steel wire removed or partially removed. Rubber has a high carbon and hydrogen content, so its energy value is comparable to quality coal — and in many cases higher.

Unlike open burning, TDF is used as a controlled industrial fuel in enclosed, high-temperature processes equipped with regulated flue-gas cleaning systems.

How it is made

TDF production at Negro Crown is fully mechanical — with no thermal or chemical treatment:

• Collection and input control — receipt and recording of waste tyres.
• Primary shredding — tyres are cut into coarse pieces (chips/shreds).
• Steel removal — a magnetic separator extracts the steel wire.
• Classification — material is sorted by size to the customer's specification.

What it is used for

• Cement plants — co-combustion in rotary kilns; the mineral residue and steel can be bound into clinker.
• Power plants and industrial boilers — as a substitute for coal and oil.
• Industrial facilities with high-temperature processes.

Advantages

• High calorific value — comparable to quality coal and higher than lignite.
• Lower energy cost compared with fossil fuels.
• Reduced CO₂ emissions by replacing non-renewable fuels.
• Less tyre waste in landfills and nature.
• Stable local supply and a shorter transport chain.

Technical characteristics

The values above are indicative and industry-typical; final parameters are confirmed by sample analysis and the supply contract.