Gas monitoring in biogas plants – safety for people, the environment and operations
Biogas plants produce valuable energy from organic waste – but the gases produced in the process, such as methane, hydrogen sulphide and ammonia, pose significant hazards. Reliable gas detection systems are essential to ensure that plants are operated safely and in compliance with the law. GfG offers high-performance gas monitoring solutions for biogas plants – both fixed and portable – to ensure maximum safety for people, the environment and equipment.
Safety solutions for the entire biogas process chain
In biogas plants, the fermentation of organic substances produces various flammable and toxic gases, in particular methane, hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), ammonia (NH₃) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). These gases pose potential hazards to people, the environment and plant operations – particularly in confined or poorly ventilated areas. Reliable and continuous gas monitoring is essential for the early detection of leaks and to prevent operational disruptions as well as the risk of explosions or poisoning.
Benefits for operators:
- Early detection of hazardous gas concentrations
- Protection of personnel, equipment and the environment
- Compliance with statutory requirements (e.g. in accordance with TRAS 120, DVGW regulations)
- Reduction in downtime and maintenance costs
- Can be integrated into existing safety systems and control systems
Gas detection technology for professional operators
GfG offers bespoke gas detection systems for all relevant measurement points in biogas plants – from the digester through the gas storage system to the combined heat and power plant. Modular controllers such as the GfG GMA22 enable the centralised monitoring of up to four transmitters and use internal relays to control safety measures such as alarms and valves. The system is complemented by suitable transmitters such as the GfG C22 ex for monitoring flammable gases in Ex Zone 2 or the GfG IR29 for methane monitoring with a long-life infrared sensor. We offer a wide range of transmitters with sensors for flammable and toxic gases as well as oxygen. For personal protection, our range includes portable gas detectors. The GfG G999S portable gas detector combines up to three measurement ranges for methane with the ability to perform clear-air testing, leak detection and gas analysis up to 100 per cent by volume methane.
Potential hazards in biogas plants:
» flammable gases (e.g. methane)
» toxic gases (e.g. H₂S, NH₃)
» explosive atmospheres
» confined and poorly ventilated spaces
» oxygen displacement
» risk of corrosion from corrosive gases
GfG’s gas detection technology – reliable, safe and cost-effective.
Whether for small agricultural biogas plants or large industrial biogas power stations: with GfG’s scalable solutions, operators are on the safe side – ensuring the smooth and legally compliant operation of their plant.
Are you planning a new biogas plant or would you like to bring your existing plant up to the latest safety standards?
Our team will be happy to advise you individually on suitable gas detection systems – from a single transmitter right through to a fully integrated solution. Please use the contact form to get in touch with us directly.
