Fundamentals of Combustion (Module 1)
Build the knowledge and confidence to operate thermal waste treatment technologies
Thermal waste treatment facilities play a vital role in managing non-recyclable and residual waste by converting materials such as refuse-derived fuel (RDF) into valuable heat and power. However, operating these facilities safely and efficiently requires a strong understanding of combustion processes and system performance.
This two-part course developed by E-Tech Learning Ltd provides a practical foundation in thermal treatment technologies, helping you understand how combustion works in real-world applications and how to optimise plant performance. You’ll gain the knowledge needed to improve efficiency, maintain environmental compliance, and support reliable, consistent operations.
Course Details
Format: eLearning
Duration: 75 minutes
Entry requirements: None. However, you will need to be employed in a suitable position or be familiar with the working environment.
CIWM member price: £70.04 (plus VAT)
Non-member price: £82.40 (plus VAT)
About this course
Understanding combustion processes
Develop a clear understanding of controlled and uncontrolled combustion, and how to manage the combustion triangle effectively.
Fuel properties and energy performance
Learn how fuel characteristics, calorific values, and air-to-fuel ratios influence combustion efficiency and plant performance.
Combustion science fundamentals
Gain an introduction to key chemistry concepts, including stoichiometry, and how they apply to thermal treatment processes.
Optimising efficiency and compliance
Understand the importance of boiler efficiency for environmental compliance, operational performance, and cost control.
Identifying performance issues
Build the skills to recognise when burners or boilers are not operating effectively and take appropriate action.
This course is suitable for anyone involved in operating, managing, or supporting thermal waste treatment facilities.
It is particularly relevant for:
- Plant operators
- Supervisors and operational leads
- Engineers working with thermal treatment systems
- Technically Competent Managers (TCMs)
- Consultants advising on thermal processes and compliance
- Local authority professionals involved in waste infrastructure
- Regulators overseeing facility performance and compliance
- Students and new entrants developing knowledge of thermal treatment technologies
Whether you are directly involved in plant operations or supporting performance and compliance, this course will provide the knowledge and confidence to understand and apply combustion principles effectively.
Course Structure
This is an interactive, eLearning course.
This course covers:
- Combustion fundamentals: Controlled vs uncontrolled combustion and managing the combustion triangle
- Fuels and energy: Fuel characteristics, calorific values, and their impact on performance
- Combustion science: Key principles including air-to-fuel ratios, stoichiometry, and essential chemistry
- Efficiency and compliance: The role of boiler performance in environmental compliance and cost control
- Performance monitoring: Identifying when burners or boilers are not operating effectively
Book your course
Active CIWM members are eligible for a discount on this course. Your discount will be applied automatically at checkout when you are logged in and book using your CIWM member details.
eLearning available 1.25 CPD
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