Portable Room Heater (Bukhari)
Details: Towseef observed and modified the traditional Bukhari, which is commonly used in every household of Kashmir to fight the chilly winters to increase its efficiency. He used logs made from gypsum and baked clay (powder of bricks) to retain heat for longer period. The modified bukhari requires less than 1 kg/h of wood/coal, which is 3-4 kg/h in the traditional one. After complete combustion of fuel, it can retain heat for about 3-4 hours, while in conventional alternatives heat remains for half an hour only. The technology has been validated by NIT Srinagar and the design is being improved upon to increase the efficiency further.
Innovator: Towseef Ali Malik, Kishtiwar, Jammu & Kashmir
State: Kishtiwar, Jammu & Kashmir
Funding agency: Department of Science and Technology, Govt of India
Implementing institute: National Innovation Foundation India (NIF), info.nif@nifindia.org
Benefits
Consumes significantly less wood or coal - less than 1 kg/h compared to 3-4 kg/h in traditional bukharis. Retains heat for 3-4 hours after combustion, compared to just 30 minutes in conventional heaters. This means you'll need to refuel less often and enjoy warmth for a longer duration. Made from gypsum and baked clay, these logs retain heat more effectively, contributing to extended warmth. The technology has been approved by NIT Srinagar, lending credibility to its efficiency claims. The design is constantly being improved to ensure even higher efficiency in the future.