Case Studies » MT Energie
The Challenge
An independent survey of a new anaerobic digestion biogas plant located at Swancote Farm, Bridgnorth was undertaken November 2011 at the request of MT Energie management. Facilities at Swancote Farm site in Shropshire allow for generation of heat and energy from agricultural crops and waste using established anaerobic digestion (AD) process.
Anaerobic digestion (AD) process utilises natural bacteria to breakdown biodegradable materials in the absence of oxygen and forming methane-rich biogas which is captured as a source of fuel for power and heat. Operations at the site will therefore routinely generate material in significant quantities that may require DSEAR controls.
The Solution Provided
Thousands of tonnes per year of feedstock into the Swancote Farm AD project will produce large quantities of biogas which is generally made up of around two-thirds Methane and one-third Carbon Dioxide – with trace amounts of Ammonia or Hydrogen Suplhide. The exact Biogas composition varies with the type of feedstock but in any case the Methane concentration can be increased prior to combustion and use as a source of energy.
In DSEAR terms digestate by-product from the AD process is not hazardous but Methane is extremely hazardous and flammable or explosive atmospheres may occur without proper gas controls.
A detailed survey was undertaken of the site operations and operational procedures from which hazardous zoning was identified to management. The detailed report provided covered all aspects of control identified in the survey and a number of recommendations for improvements to the extensive safety controls employed on the site.
What MT Energie said:
MT Energie work in the Bio-gas technology industry and were pleased to find a highly competent DSEAR consultancy. MT-Energie UK were provided with a highly professional service in undertaking a DSEAR assessment for one of our projects in Swancote. The DSEAR report has provided valuable input to us for use in future projects of this nature as well as the one reviewed.
