Biogas refers to gases that are derived from the composition of organic materials such as manure and plant remains. These gases can be used as fuels and also to produce electricity. The main composition of biogas is methane. Biogas possesses chemical energy, and therefore electricity from biogas comes as a result of converting this chemical energy to mechanical energy and finally into electricity. This is done by the use of transducers such as generators and turbines that convert energy from one form to another. This electricity can be used both domestically and commercially since it can be made in small and large scale.
- Biogas source
- Gas engine
- AC generator
Connect the biogas source to the inlet of the gas engine. The biogas source may be a cylinder that contains pressurized gas or directly from a digester, which is the means of decomposing the organic material. The gas engine is designed to work in a similar manner to that of a car, since it is composed of pistons within which the gas is burnt and used to rotate a shaft, converting the chemical energy in the biogas into mechanical energy through motion.
Connect the gas engine to the AC generator in such a way that the rotating shaft powers the AC generator. The motion transferred to the AC generator produces electricity through magnetism.
Connect the AC generator to cables that transfer electricity to a chargeable battery for storage or directly to a power distribution grid for consumption. Open the tap from the gas source and fire up the gas engine. Take precautionary measures such as having a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an accidental fire, as methane is a very volatile gas.
Step up the electricity with a transformer to reduce the power lost as electricity is being transmitted through the cables. Connect the system to a bulb to test whether electricity is being produced.
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