The global demand for renewable natural gas (RNG), also known as biomethane, is on the rise. RNG is a sustainable energy source alternative to fossil fuels, produced from organic waste. It plays a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of the natural gas grid and transportation. The expansion of this industry thrives on government incentives and regulations designed to curb greenhouse gas emissions. This upward industry trend is expected to continue in the coming years.
RNG production involves capturing and processing methane emissions produced by organic matter from various sources, including landfills, wastewater treatment plants, and feedstock operations. Through processes like anaerobic digestion, the captured methane is upgraded to meet quality standards and transformed into RNG. This process mitigates the environmental impact of methane and creates a renewable energy source.
This sustainable fuel can be used on-site as part of a self-sufficient energy system or transported through natural gas pipelines for use in other locations. Its applications include heating, generating electricity and serving as a fuel source for vehicles, among other uses.
A Partner for a Greener Future
In its commitment to a carbon neutral future, Ingersoll Rand offers a wide range of solutions supporting various stages of the RNG process. This includes natural gas compressors, blowers, and vacuum solutions for extraction, as well as pumps, loading arms and odorization systems with integrated specialized IIoT systems for remote monitoring.
Ingersoll Rand is strategically positioned with a global network spanning engineering, procurement, distribution, service and support channels to ensure the seamless operation of your RNG process. We have decades of combined experience in delivering tailored solutions for unique processes and performance requirements.
With Ingersoll Rand as your partner for RNG solutions, you get:
- An extensive brand and product portfolio, including compressors, blowers, pumps (vacuum, mechanical, peristaltic, and solenoid), vacuum pumps, loading arms and odorization and transport solutions
- Specialized IIoT technologies for remote monitoring and hazardous environments
- Access to RNG and Biogas process and industry experts
- Performance, results and value from trusted, proven partners
Learn more about how our solutions support the expanding RNG industry throughout the biomethane production process.
Governments around the world are introducing incentives and policies aimed at lowering greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, the demand for an alternative to conventional natural gas is increasing at an accelerating rate. The United States, France, Germany, Denmark, the UK, and Sweden are the main countries pushing the growth.
Further expansion of the RNG industry will depend on continued government support and new technologies. Not only policies but also efforts from businesses, especially in the industrial sector, can support this growth.
Step by Step Guide to Generating High-Quality RNG
Biogas Collection
The first step in the process is the collection of biogas generated from waste or organic sources. This gas is often collected using a system of storage tanks, pipes, and wells. However, raw biogas contains impurities, such as water vapor, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and siloxanes. They can be removed using our vacuum systems, blower solutions, industrial pumps (motor driven, peristaltic, solenoid) and effective filter technologies.
Primary Treatment
After biogas is collected, it undergoes essential pre-treatment to eliminate impurities. Water vapor is removed through condensation, and H2S is typically eliminated through desulfurization processes. Siloxanes, which can be harmful to compressors, are commonly removed with activated carbon filters.
Ingersoll Rand technologies can be instrumental in biogas treatment, offering valuable support through centrifugal and pd blowers, vacuum solutions, chemical injection and process flow pumps (Milton Roy/LMI/Albin) and air dryers.
Compression
After purification, the biogas is composed mostly of methane. It must be now compressed using a specialized natural gas air compressor to several hundred pounds per square inch (psi). This special type of compressor is designed to withstand the demanding conditions required for natural gas compression.
Cooling and Drying
Following compression, the biogas may pass through a cooling system to lower its temperature. This cooling process aids in condensing any remaining water vapor, which is subsequently removed. Properly drying the gas is crucial to prevent corrosion and ensure the optimal performance of downstream equipment.
Upgrading
The upgrading process aims to purify the biogas, removing impurities to meet pipeline quality or vehicle fuel standards. This is a critical step that involves converting raw biogas, which is typically a mixture of methane (CH4) and impurities such as carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2), water vapor (H2O), and trace contaminants like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and siloxanes, into a high-quality RNG product.
Storage and Distribution
The compressed and dried biogas is stored in high-pressure tanks or transported through pipelines or loading arms for various uses. Our loading and unloading arms are used for the distribution and transport of pressurized or liquified biogas, and used when biogas must be transported via truck, railcar or vessel. The product of the upgrading process is a high-quality RNG that is virtually indistinguishable from fossil natural gas.
The gas must be easily detectable to ensure safe gas consumption. For this reason, RNG is odorized with a special blend of tetrahydrothiophene (THT) or mercaptan variations (such as TBM, DMS, or other types of odorants). Our specialized odorizers for these applications to help you meet regulatory requirements.
Remote Process Monitoring
Remote monitoring throughout the process is essential to keep operations moving smoothly. In hazardous and explosive conditions inherent in the RNG sector, monitoring pressure, temperature and gas quality is challenging. We deliver specialized IIoT devices developed specifically for these demanding applications.
RNG Solutions by Application: