On-Line Fourier Transform Infrared Siloxane Analyser for Monitoring Biomethane Sites

Completed

Fossil Fuels: Oil Gas and Coal(Oil and Gas, Refining, transport and storage of oil and gas)

Applied Research and Development

PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND MATHEMATICS (Chemistry)

Not Cross-cutting

Project Contact
Cadent Gas

Network Innovation Allowance

Ofgem

01 August 2014

01 January 2017

29 months

£319,953

Technical Consultancy

London

Network Innovation Allowance

Project Contact, Cadent Gas

Project Contact, Severn Trent Services
Project Contact, Det Norske Veritas BV (DNV), Norway

The aim of the project is to give us confidence in using a piece on on-line equipment to test the concentration of siloxanes in the derived biogas, to ensure we are compliant with GS(M)R Schedule 3 which it there to ensure we are not introducing material into the gas which interferes with the operation of pipes and gas appliances. Acceptance of the results from the initial field trial of the loaned device, allowing us to continue to stage 2Acceptance of the results from the trial at Severn Trent’s WWTP at Minworth, to give confidence to roll out the device to other similar bio methane sites.

If Total Silicon limits are imposed by the HSE, gas distribution networks will need to demonstrate that the gas they are transporting is compliant. For biogas plant such as WWTP and food waste digesters that produce high levels of silicon compounds, monitoring Total Silicon concentrations on-line rather than taking spot samples and analysing them in a laboratory will be a safer option for gas customers and thus reduce financial risk for the gas transporter. A high level of confidence in the monitoring techniques used to ensure compliance with statutory requirements will encourage the use of biomethane in gas networks thus removing barriers to new sources of gas whilst also facilitating the decarbonisation of the UK gas network. Therefore there is a requirement for a cost effective, reliable analyser of on-line monitoring of total silicon content of bio-methane. MKS Instruments have developed an on-line analyser (AIRGARD Siloxane Monitor) to measure silicon compounds in landfill and digester gases. Using the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), MKS claim to achieve a lower detection limit for total Silicon of 0. 1 mg m^3 compared with other accredited sampling and laboratory methods, depending on the complexity of the sample gas composition and the sample scan time. The project willStage 11) Procure an FTIR analyser on a conditional purchase arrangement. Install the analyser at Minworth WWTP, including a heated sampling line. Take on-line samples once a day (mid week only) for 30 minutes, for 4 weeks. To confirm the accuracy of the results samples will also be taken to an UKAS accredited laboratory once a week. Stage 2Purchase the FTIR analyser. Carry out full laboratory test programme of the FTIR analyser. Carry out field trial at Minworth WWTP for 3 months with two sample lines. To confirm the accuracy of the results samplesNote : Project Documents may be available via the ENA Smarter Networks Portal using the Website link above

17/09/18