29 JAN 2009
GEA Niro Soavi presents a new technology related to biogas generation and environmental benefits
The combination of homogenizers from GEA Niro Soavi and decanter centrifuges from GEA Westfalia Separator opens up a new economic dimension in sewage sludge treatment to produce renewable energies. Biogas technology takes account of the idea of environmentally sound recycling management and local waste recycling: instead of merely disposing of organic waste, the waste is used for generating energy. Biogas installations therefore also make a contribution towards the consistent and efficient use of resources.
Many waste water treatment plants are not optimally utilizing the digester gas potential. The basic reason for this is that the microorganisms in the digester form coarse particles which causes unfavorable reaction surfaces for further biodegradability.
With this GEA biogasplus efficient process line, the reaction surface is enlarged which in turn results in increased gas production and a reduced sludge volume avoiding the disintegration of cells and particles.
The pumping block design of the homogenizer features the GEA Niro Soavi unique free flow and patented configuration named OpenXFLOTM, which is able to pump the sludge containing solids, particles, clusters and fibers to the homogenizing valve for product micronisation without clogging, build-up and consequential downtime of the equipment.
The digesting sludge is forced under low pressure through a specifically designed homogenizing valve. This breaks up the sludge particles and forms a homogenous dispersion. Disintegration of the microorganisms is avoided by using low pressure.
The homogenizer and the biogasplus system are engineered for safe and reliable operation under 24/7 conditions, in fully automated unattended mode, with reduced preventive maintenance program.
The results of this combined process is clearly reflected on:
• 25 percent more biogas production
• 25 percent reduction of waste solids for disposal.
• Reduction of sludge digesting time and shortening of holding time into the digestor
• Reduction of polymers for dewatering
• nNo increase of COD load in the process.
• Positive energy balance in the digesting process through the use of the homogenizer;
at low pressure, more energy is generated than consumed.
GEA Westfalia Separator biogasplus solution is therefore valuable in terms of preserving natural resources. The homogenized digested sludge is dewatered with the proven decanter technology from GEA Westfalia Separator Systems for optimal and efficient dewatering. The high dry substance content in the dewatered sludge reduces the solids weight and therefore makes a significant contribution to the minimization of disposal costs.