Our many years of experience have led to our specialisation in the development, production and marketing of gas-technology components for a wide variety of fermentation gas applications in the bio, sewage and landfill gas area.
Our product portfolio ranges from fermentation gas reactor equipment to all gas purification and gas storage components right through to gas utilisation in flare systems. We are also happy to conduct the planning, conception and delivery of complete gas conduits and systems as well as their maintenance and inspection on behalf of the customer.
Our company EnvironTec, based in Fußach in Vorarlberg/Austria, specialises in the development and production of gas components for a wide range of digester gas applications. Based on our innovative strength and many years of experience, we offer our international customers sophisticated solutions in the following areas:
Worldwide - that means from Asia with Indonesia and China over whole Europe up to America we could already equip numerous customers in the past with the following components from the range of the biogas purification, biogas preparation, biogas storage and biogas utilization:
In the past, we have successfully completed numerous such projects worldwide, which is why our company has many years of in-depth experience in the field of environmental technology with regard to digestion tower equipment. As a result, we are able to provide our international customers with tailor-made services, which are adapted by our well-trained experts exactly to the respective requirements.Â
Thanks to this variability, we are able to provide our international customers with high-quality elements in every respect with regard to the appropriate digestion tower equipment, which, if required, present themselves from their flexible side in order to be able to actually meet the respective requirements.Â
EnvironTec can supply you with the following products from the field of digestion tower equipment:
This enables EnvironTec to ensure that for every possible order that we take on internationally in the most diverse countries, high-quality, professional and equally effective and efficient solutions are delivered with regard to digestion towers. The choice of materials used for the production of our digestion equipment is also based on our priority to meet the highest quality standards.
A sufficiently large and easy to open/close aperture is required for carrying out repair and inspection work as well as for moving bulky equipment into and out of fermentation containers. The EnvironTec RMH roof manhole provides a robust and cost-effective manhole design for this purpose. The roof manhole is available in four different standard diameters – also in custom sizes to customer specifications. Usually, 1.4571 stainless steel is used as material for roof manholes and NBR round cord as gasket.
The EnvironTec Hydraulic Safety Valve provides a safe and reliable protection against both, overpressure and vacuum. It consists of a round tank, which is divided into two sections by a separating wall. One section is connected to the gas tank or the gas pipe, the other one to the open air. An open space, which allows liquid and gas to pass from one section into the other one, is provided at the bottom of the separating wall. A liquid that normally closes the space is filled into the hydraulic valve. The pressures, when the valve is activated are adjusted by the height of the liquid level and by the ratios of the bottom areas of the two sections. On overpressure conditions, the liquid level at the gas side will be depressed until the gas can pass into the other section and can escape into the open air from there. On vacuum conditions, the liquid level at the air side will be depressed until the air can pass under the separating wall into the gas section and thus break any impermissible vacuum. The required liquid level inside the valve is adjusted by an overflow siphon, which drains any excess and a level indication, which gives alarm in case of lack of liquid.
Gas domes/gas hoods serve two purposes: firstly, they accommodate a wide variety of equipment at the head of the fermentation tower such as safety equipment, foam traps, inspection/viewing windows, gas take-off fittings, etc. and, secondly, they provide a sufficiently large aperture for charging and removing material as well as for accessing the interior. The EnvironTec gas dome or gas hood is designed and manufactured to each specific customer requirement and can be supplied in a wide variety of configurations. Diameter and wall height are individually adjustable.
Inspection glasses/observation windows are used for the easy and unobstructed observation of the processes inside fermentation vessels (e.g., formation of floating layers). The EnvironTec inspection glass system can be integrated into a manhole cover or gas dome or be installed in the reactor roof or external wall using a special insert. EnvironTec inspection glasses are available in different sizes. Window wipers, spray mechanisms, inspection glass luminaires (also ex-protected) and protective covers are available as optional accessories.
During the construction phase of fermentation gas containers, but also during operation and for structural work, the safe and easy access to the interior of the vessel must be ensured. Therefore, the lateral access and egress of people but also the supply and removal of materials and tools must be facilitated. The EnvironTec LMH lateral manhole ensures the easy and quick opening / closing of the manhole cover by means of a spindleoperated locking mechanism and, as it is designed to open towards the interior, the fluid pressure provides an additional seal. Its convex interior surface prevents slurry particles or other solid matter from being deposited on it. EnvironTec lateral LMH manholes are available with clear diameters of 600 mm - 1200 mm. The frame width is individually adjustable.
During the operation of fermentation vessels it is possible for foam to form (e.g. during mixing processes inside the reactor, charging of pressurised gas, disadvantageous composition of the sewage slurry, temperature effects, etc.). The modern EnvironTec foam trap facilitates the timely detection of the build-up of foam and the effective prevention of this foam entering the gas take-off system.
The interior of the foam trap is continually monitored by a photo-optical system. When the foam formed inside the gas chamber rises to the monitored section, this is immediately detected and the cleaning nozzles are automatically activated.
The foam in the foam trap is kept down by a spray veil preventing it from entering into the gas pipeline system. The suppressed foam falls directly back into the reactor chamber. The foam trap is available in different specifications (basic specification, semi and fully automatic as well as incl. signal output to a control system).
During the construction phase of fermentation gas containers, but also during operation and for structural work, the safe and easy acces to the interior of the vessel must be ensured. Therefore, the lateral acces and egress of people but also the supply and removal of materials and tools must be facilitated.
The EnvironTEC LMH II lateral manhole ensures the easy and quick opening/closing od the manhole cover by a handle bar.
Its convex interior surface prevents slurry particles or other solid matter from being deposited on it.
During the operation of fermentation vessels sludge islands floating on the surface of the sewage sludge or floating layers can form.
The EnvironTec spraying unit allows the buildup of floating layers to be attacked with the aim of driving the floating fragments towards the discharge mechanism without having to open the container. Due to the ball joint design, the water jet of the spray nozzle can be freely rotated and tilted. Because the work can be simultaneously monitored through the EnvironTec inspection glass, there is no need to open the reactor’s gas chamber.
In addition, the spraying unit can also be used to attack the formation of foam and scum. All metal parts are made from stainless steel and the ball joint from durable plastic material.
Our double tube heat exchanger are used for heat exchange at biogas- and sewage treatment plants. Using the energy efficient counter-flow principle, the medium is heated and flows back to the process. The WT is always individually designed and carried out for every costumer, this guarantees a cost-effective execution. Our WT is made of stainless steel and available with or without insulation
The novel, award-winning pasteurization plant is designed for being easily integrated into a treatment plant. It is delivered readily mounted by truck. Only the substrate in- and outputs have to be connected to the existing plant, the heating and power connections have to be established – and the plant is ready for being set into operation.
The process: Continual pasteurization respectively disinfection (control of epidemics) primarily of food waste and other material of similar structure for treatment in biogas plants or sewage sludge treatment plants.
Guarantied and documented retention time according to EU directive n° 142/2011 of: 1 hour at a temperature above 70 °C for disinfection / pasteurization
Technical data: Thermal energy consumption max. 220 kW Electric power consumption 4 kW Production capacity 40.000 t/year
The continual energy consumption results in easy scheduling the thermal energy More than 50% cost savings can be achieved compared to conventional systems.
Worldwide, professional and appropriate gas treatment is not only an important task in the field of environmental technology, it is also characterized by numerous challenges that have to be overcome with suitable components. For this purpose, our company provides a wide range of products that have already proven themselves many times over internationally.
Biogas contains high levels of contaminants like H2S, siloxanes, organic compounds and particles, which can create irreversible damage to the engine.
The EnvironTec’s Activated Carbon Filter can costeffectively remove those contaminants, leading to lower operational costs and longer lifespan of engines and plant’s components.
The EnvironTec filter’s unique 3-legged design and the special disposition on the gas inlet pipe inside the filter, results on an even gas distribution inside the chamber, leading to a higher adsorption efficiency, thereby a lower consumption of activated carbon and ultimately to a significant reduction of the operating costs As an option, insulation and carbon first filling can be provided on request. EnvironTec’s Activated Carbon is available for H2S and siloxane removal, reaching higher loading ratios that the average product available in the market, thus extending the load’s service life
Biogas and landfill gas always contains hydrogen sulphide (H2S). Usually, this is in the range of 1,000 to 6,000 ppm but may also reach 2% Vol or more. This H2S frequently needs to be removed from the gas – either for reasons of environmental protection or because of the corrosion hazard. The EnvironTec desulphurisation process offers a cost-effective yet highly efficient solution for this task. At the core is a biological process requiring no chemicals and almost no consumables. When a limited amount of air (app. 10 - 15% in relation to the gas throughput) is added, special bacteria (e.g. Thiobacillus) convert the H2S to elementary sulphur and sulphuric acid.
These bacteria only need:
Oxygen is added in the form of pressurised air. The automatic controller adjusts the amount of air to the current demand in correlation with the amount of gas. Synthetic fertiliser (NPK886), which is available in all countries around the world, is used to supply nutrients and trace elements. The system is built to VDI directive 3478 and the currently applicable ATEX regulations.
Fine filters are used for the fine purification of sewage gas/biogas. This allows the separation of fine particles ≥8 µm as well as condensate vapour resulting in the availability of gas for further use that is free of foreign matter to the greatest possible extent.
EnvironTec fine filters are fitted with filter candles made from Pantel (special fire clay). As the gas flows through the filter candles from the outside to the inside foreign matter is separated out on the outer wall. The filter material used is chemically resistant/neutral, has a high filtration performance coupled with a low pressure loss and is easy to clean with pressure washers.
Any condensate build-up can be drained via an optional siphon or condensate separator. If required, the fine filters can also be fitted with differential pressure gauging (U-tube or individual pressure gauges). EnvironTec fine filters are entirely made from 1.4404 stainless steel
Biogas from fermentation vessels or biogas reactors is saturated with water and partially loaded with dirt particles. In addition, foam may enter the pipeline system.
The EnvironTec GF gravel filter ensures the simple coarse cleansing of the biogas. The gas flows through a gravel filter layer during which process dirt, foam and condensate droplets are separated out. In the case of normal debris levels, the gravel can be cleaned by water injection via the cleaning nozzles or by flushing without the need to open the filter.
EnvironTec offers gravel filters for different flow volumes and pressures. The gravel filter can optionally be fitted with a gravel removal flange as well as differential pressure gauging. EnvironTec gravel filters are entirely made from 1.4404 stainless steel.
Biogas, sewage gas and landfill gas always contain water vapour in an unsaturated state. During combustion, the water vapour results in considerable corrosion damages to the gas engines and turbines. Malfunctions caused by these damages lead to significant downtimes and high repair costs. The use of a gas dehumidification system can considerably extend the engines’ service life and notably reduce the maintenance costs. The condensation of the water vapour in the gas is caused by temperature reduction which in turn results in a dehumidification. The con-densate is separated out in a trap installed after the chiller and removed via a siphon. The de-humidification simultaneously results in an increased efficiency.
The EnvironTec gas de-humidification process presents a cost-effective solution in this context. The gas dehumidification modules are available in performance ranges offering gas flow rates from 100 to 6000 Nm³/h. Special designs are also available on request. Additional application examples are configurations in combination with a post-heating stage ahead of active carbon filters and feeding into a gas pipeline to prevent subsequent condensation. For additional energy savings the gas dehumidification can be enhanced with an extension module comprising an air cooler and a tubular heat exchanger.ATEX regulations.
Sewage gas / biogas is gas that is saturated with water vapour. In fermentation gas plants and their pipeline systems there typically is a build-up of condensed water caused by temperature effects. Condensate can lead to blockages at low points and deposits, corrosion, etc. in pipe sections.
The EnvironTec condensate separator for low-point water drainage effectively and safely collects and removes condensed water from the pipeline system. Condensate pots are usually installed directly in the pipeline but can also be flanged below low-lying points of the pipeline. The water condensed out accumulates on the container walls or the separation wall and is collected at the bottom of the container.
Removal is manual via a ball valve or automatic via a siphon or an automatic condensate separator. An optional fill level indicator or sight glass are also available. The system is available in different sizes and specifications (basic specification, semi and fully automatic). EnvironTec condensate separator pots are entirely made from 1.4404 stainless steel.
The biogas is brought into intense contact with a circulating alkali liquid over an exchanger in a single stage counter current process (gas scrubber}. The H2S in the gas is absorbed by the alkali liquid through various chemical reactions. Ultimately the H,S in the gas is almost totally converted into NaHS and sodium bicarbonate using sodium hydroxide.
The process is controlled by a sophisticated H2S-detection and sampling system for very efficient operations and low chemical consumption. Selective desulphurisation is possible due to the differences in the physical and chemical properties of H2S and CO2.
The course of this chemical process is further determined by chemical concentrations, pH values and the temperature and pressure of the system. Caustic consumption savings up to 60% can be achieved in comparison with conventional caustic scrubber-technologies!
As an international player in the field of environmental technology with worldwide export activities, for example to Turkey, Sweden or South America, our company has various gas storage variants in its range, for example biogas storage facilities, in order to be able to supply a tailor-made solution for every order.
The outer membrane forms the actual protective construction and is always exposed to a positive pressure required for structural integrity. The processes inside the storage container can always be monitored through an inspection glass built into the outer membrane. The actual useable storage space is formed by the inner membrane. This membrane moves up or down depending on the fill level. In a gas storage container with a foundation plate the bottom membrane seals the storage space from the concrete foundation.
The membranes are attached to the foundation by the anchor ring. Each storage container is individually loadcalculated (internal pressure, wind and snow loads). Consequently, membranes with a high tear resistance are selected. The PVC-coated membranes are flame-resistant pursuant to DIN 4102 B1, fungicide treated and fitted with extended UV protection. The inner and bottom membranes are specially coated for protection against the substances contained in the biogas (CH4, CO2, H2S, etc.).
The support-air fan ensures that the pressure inside the gas storage container required for absorbing external forces such as snow and wind loads and for the pre-pressurisation of the gas system is maintained. A special air hose connects the fan with the storage container. The non-return valve prevents air escaping in case of a fan failure. As a safety measure a pressure control valve is installed in the air system. This valve controls the operating pressure and automatically closes on reaching a required minimum positive pressure (structural stability, fan failure) in the outer membrane. This mechanism maintains the stability of the storage container during gas production. Fill level gauging facilitates the optimum utilisation of the storage volume and the control of subsequent devices (e.g.: flare, motor, burner, etc.).
EnvironTec offers 2 pressureless gas storage systems that are basically differentiated by the type of casing design. The TG model consists of a galvanised steel profile structure with trapezoidal sheet metal cladding. The TGZ model consists of a prefabricated metal silo made from galvanised corrugated steel sheet metal segments with laterally attached stiffening profiles and a conical roof.
The storage membrane is made from highquality, leakage-tested, UV-resistant special plastic material; fungicide treated, flame resistant to DIN 4102 B2. The membrane is completely self-contained and freestanding inside the container (no steel components in direct contact with the gas).
It is attached by/fitted with a stainless steel connection flange (material no. 1.4571) at the tip of the conical housing and at the bottom of the gas sack. A protective floor matt is laid on top of the concrete foundation for the protection of the storage membrane. The gas containers are equipped with hydraulic pressure/vacuum protection, a mechanical pressure relief valve as well as optical fill level indication and vacuum monitoring.
EnvironTec provides you with single or replacement units from leading international manufacturers for a capacity of 50 to 5000m³/h or pressures from a few millibars to 0.5 bar generation.
EnvironTec not only provides individual units, but also delivers complete plug-and-play manufactured container compression systems, which are used in biogas/biomethane and/or landfill applications.
The operation of biogas or sewage treatment plants may necessitate the safe combustion of excess gas (e.g. start-up phase, repairs or severe consumer damages). The EnvironTec gas flare FAI series provides the operator with an automatically controlled, safe and low-emission gas flare. The cost- effective design of the FAI primarily ensures a long service life, low maintenance cost and constant availability.
Flare operation is fully automated. On receipt of the start / stop signal from the plant control or manual with a button, the automatic burner control automatically opens the relevant valves and simultaneously initiates the ignition sequence. The flame is continually monitored by a UV sensor and a safety min. pressure switch.
Manual version with manual valve and push button for ignition on request. The FAI is fitted with a standard switch cabinet (IP66) with automatic burner control pursuant to EN 746-2 and PLC Siemens Logo!8 control. Gas combustion is via a single burner system injector. If desired, the FAI flare can be equipped with additional accessories such as pressure control, electrically heated fittings or switch cabinet in stainless steel. The FAI is an efficient and cost-effective solution for locations, where open combustion is allowed. EnvironTec FAI biogas flares are entirely made from stainless steel and fitted with high-quality components/fittings
The operation of biogas or sewage treatment plants may necessitate the safe combustion of excess gas (e.g. start-up phase, repairs or severe consumer damages). The EnvironTec gas flare FAII series provides the operator with an automatically controlled, safe and low-emission gas flare. The robust and functional design of the FAII primarily ensures a long service life, low maintenance and constant availability.
Flare operation is fully automated. On receipt of the start / stop signal from the plant control or after a pressure reaches a set value, the automatic burner control automatically opens the relevant fittings and simultaneously initiates the ignition sequence. The flame is continually monitored by a UV sensor. The FAII is fitted with a plastic switch cabinet (IP66) with automatic burner control pursuant to EN 746-2.
Gas combustion is via injector burners, enabling a pre-mix air-biogas to take place with that achieving a safe, more stable, less noisy and concealed combustion. If desired, the FAII flare can be equipped with additional accessories such as pressure control, pilot burner system, electrically heated fittings or temperature monitoring among others. EnvironTec FAII biogas flares are entirely made from stainless steel and fitted with high-quality components/fittings.
The series HT is designed as a flare (according to TA air) with automatic exhaust temperature control at 1000 °C and a dwell of at least 0,3 sec. Area of deployments: Thermal disposal of combustible surplus gases (landfill gas plants) or special gases.
HT flares are supplied with heat-resistant ceramic lagging (up to 1220 °C) and automatically controlled air flap. The flare burner starts when the start signal and the gas pressure due for flare.
Automatic ignition and control during operation. All control functions in weatherproof control cabinet. Ignition system: Pilot burner for propane, natural gas and special gases. All wetted components are welded of V4A steel, rayed and passivated.