Generator Sub-Load Control for Variable Biogas Power Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power generation systems using landfill gas face challenges due to variability in biogas pressure and composition, leading to unreliable energy output and inefficiencies, resulting in stranded or underutilized natural gas resources, with millions of dekatherms of biogas being flared or vented annually.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a generator set, power distributor, and controller that dynamically manages sub-loads connected to a biogas-fueled power generator, allowing for real-time adjustment of power distribution based on anticipated energy output and grid demands, optimizing energy usage and reducing waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If biogas is used as fuel for power generation, then renewable energy production is increased, but reliability of power output deteriorates due to variability in biogas pressure and composition
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational state of the generator based on real-time biogas availability and power demand conditions. The controller monitors biogas flow rate and pressure, and automatically modulates the generator output to match available energy supply, transforming the static operation into a dynamic adaptive system that resolves the contradiction between maximizing renewable energy production and maintaining reliable power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as generator load, fuel flow rate, and power output based on varying biogas characteristics. By continuously adjusting these parameters in response to biogas pressure and composition changes, the system maintains optimal performance while accommodating the variability of the renewable fuel source, thus improving both productivity and reliability simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If biogas pressure and composition are highly variable, then adaptability to different conditions is improved, but consistency of power generation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors biogas flow rate, pressure, and generator performance. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts operational parameters to compensate for variations in biogas quality, thereby maintaining consistent power generation output despite changes in fuel characteristics, and resolving the contradiction between adaptability and consistency.
3Power
If generator output is increased to meet power demand, then power supply capability is improved, but efficiency deteriorates when biogas availability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically matches generator output to the actual availability of biogas fuel. Rather than operating at fixed high capacity, the generator power output is continuously adjusted to reflect real-time fuel supply conditions, ensuring that power supply capability is maximized only when fuel is available, thus avoiding energy inefficiency while maintaining the ability to meet demand when possible.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the reliability and efficiency of biogas-powered systems, minimizing methane flaring and improving sustainability by dynamically balancing power loads with available energy, ensuring stable grid operation and efficient use of renewable energy sources.
Implementation Method 1
biogas-fueled or natural gas-powered generator set
Implementation Method 2
biogas-powered thermomechanical systems
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, the disclosed technology involves a system having a generator set comprising a first engine and an output terminal coupled to a power distributor, a load comprising two or more sub-loads, wherein each of the sub-loads are coupled to the power distributor via one or more respective electrical contactors, and a controller communicably coupled to the electrical contactors and the generator set comprising a processor, and a memory, the memory having computer-readable instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor cause operations. The operations may include determining a number of sub-loads available, receiving data representing power generation of the generator set, determining which of the available sub-loads to connect in order to balance the generator set to the load, and controlling the respective electrical contactors of the determined sub-loads so as to provide electricity to the determined sub-loads.