Combined Heat and Power

A Biogas Australia supplied genset can be fitted with a CHP unit which allows you to make maximum use of all of the energy generated from the burning of biogas.

All engines require cooling to maintain the engine within its operating temperature range. By removing the radiator and diverting this “cooling” water to a heat exchanger the stored energy in the water can be beneficially used. The same goes for the heat from the exhaust system.

In piggeries where there is a requirement to maintain a heated area for the comfort of newly born pigs in the farrowing shed  as well as in the weaner sheds for newly weaned piglets, the hot water can be used to heat plastic floor tiles. An excellent example of this type of tile is the MIK International AG range of hot water tiles – refer: http://www.mik-online.com/en/waermesysteme.htm

To illustrate the energy output of a CHP Biogas Plant as supplied by Biogas Australia let us use a normal liquid slurry 500 sow birth to bacon piggery.

• Electricity generated = 42 kWh for use in ventilation or sale to grid
• Hot water generated from engine cooling system only  (50% efficiency) = 21 kWh or 175 farrowing crates heated using 2 MIK Thermo W (400 x 600mm) tiles per crate
• Hot water generated from exhaust heat exchanger (100%) efficiency = 42 kWh or additional 350 farrowing crates heated using 2 MIK Thermo W (400 x 600mm) tiles per crate

Keeping piglets warm with recycled heat from generators