The role of valves in a biogas plant
In a biogas plant, biogas valves are used to control the flow of biogas and they’re essential for its safe and efficient operation.
Not all biogas valves are the same and there are multiple types to choose from, and the type that’s best for a specific application will depend on a number of factors; the size of the biogas plant, the pressure and temperature of the biogas, not to mention plant safety. However, some of the most common types include:
At 3B Controls, we offer the following UK manufactured valves that are suited to Biogas applications:
B100 Series Biogas valves
We provide both open and closed vent B100 valves, featuring Standard Pressure settings of + 2 mbarg to 100 mbarg and Standard Vacuum settings of – 2 mbarg to – 100 mbarg.
Constructed from stainless steel , aluminium and carbon steel, with a stainless steel trim as standard. The diaphragm is constructed from PTFE.
The B100 valves designed to be lightweight to facilitate easy handling.
B200 vacuum relief valves
Also constructed to be lightweight and easy to handle, these weight-loaded PW valves are supplied with full form flanges to match your bespoke needs.
B300 pressure relief valves
The B300 ranges in size from 50mm up to 300mm and is constructed from aluminium, carbon steel and stainless steel. It features proximity switches to indicate pallet lift.
Gauge hatches and manways
We also provide to the biogas industry the B500 gauge hatch, in screw down, lockable or free lift options, and the B400 pressure & combined vacuum relieving manway, featuring weight loaded pressure / spring loaded vacuum.
Where in a plant are biogas valves used?
Biogas valves are used across lots of different locations in a biogas plant, with some of the most common places being:
- Digester: This is one of the most fundamental areas of a biogas plant and is where the organic matter is broken down to produce the biogas. In the digester, biogas valves are used to control the flow of biogas in and out.
- Separator: Where the biogas is separated from the liquid slurry, the valves work to regulate the flow of biogas and liquid slurry in and out of the separator.
- Scrubber: A scrubber is used to clean the biogas and remove any impurities. Predictably, the biogas valves are used to control the flow of biogas in and out of the scrubber.
- Meter: The meter measures the flow of biogas and the valves control the flow to the meter.
- Compressor: This works to increase the pressure of the biogas and valves play a vital part in safely regulating the flow to it.
- Generator: This is at the final stage and converts the biogas into electricity.
Safety and efficiency are paramount in a biogas plant and choosing the right kind of biogas valves is a huge part of this consideration.
- Choose valves that are resistant to corrosion and wear to help ensure safer and longer-lasting operation.
- Consider the pressures and temperatures your biogas plant will operate at.
- It helps if the valves that are easy to operate and maintain. 3B controls offer support to keep things running smoothly and we are always on hand to answer any questions.
- Most importantly. choose valves that are certified for use in biogas applications.
If you would like to know more about our UK manufactured Biogas valves, please get in touch for an informal chat.