Biogas Collection
The first step in the process is the collection of biogas generated from waste or organic sources. This gas is often collected using a system of storage tanks, pipes, and wells. However, raw biogas contains impurities, such as water vapor, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and siloxanes. They can be removed using our vacuum systems, blower solutions, industrial pumps ( motor driven, peristaltic, solenoid) and effective filter technologies.
Primary Treatment
After biogas is collected, it undergoes essential pre-treatment to eliminate impurities. Water vapor is removed through condensation, and H2S is typically eliminated through desulfurization processes. Siloxanes, which can be harmful to compressors, are commonly removed with activated carbon filters.
Ingersoll Rand technologies can be instrumental in biogas treatment, offering valuable support through centrifugal and pd blowers, vacuum solutions, chemical injection and process flow pumps (Milton Roy/LMI/Albin) and air dryers.
Compression
After purification, the biogas is composed mostly of methane. It must be now compressed using a specialized natural gas air compressor to several hundred pounds per square inch (psi). This special type of compressor is designed to withstand the demanding conditions required for natural gas compression.
Cooling and Drying
Following compression, the biogas may pass through a cooling system to lower its temperature. This cooling process aids in condensing any remaining water vapor, which is subsequently removed. Properly drying the gas is crucial to prevent corrosion and ensure the optimal performance of downstream equipment.
Upgrading
The upgrading process aims to purify the biogas, removing impurities to meet pipeline quality or vehicle fuel standards. This is a critical step that involves converting raw biogas, which is typically a mixture of methane (CH4) and impurities such as carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2), water vapor (H2O), and trace contaminants like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and siloxanes, into a high-quality RNG product.
Storage and Distribution
The compressed and dried biogas is stored in high-pressure tanks or transported through pipelines or loading arms for various uses. Our loading and unloading arms are used for the distribution and transport of pressurized or liquified biogas, and used when biogas must be transported via truck, railcar or vessel. The product of the upgrading process is a high-quality RNG that is virtually indistinguishable from fossil natural gas.
The gas must be easily detectable to ensure safe gas consumption. For this reason, RNG is odorized with a special blend of tetrahydrothiophene (THT) or mercaptan variations (such as TBM, DMS, or other types of odorants). Our specialized odorizers for these applications to help you meet regulatory requirements.
Remote Process Monitoring
Remote monitoring throughout the process is essential to keep operations moving smoothly. In hazardous and explosive conditions inherent in the RNG sector, monitoring pressure, temperature and gas quality is challenging. We deliver specialized IIoT devices developed specifically for these demanding applications.
