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PhD Thesis - Energy Systems Research Unit - University of Strathclyde

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Electricity (kW) = Elec x Feed (6.16)<br />

Hours<br />

Where Elec = Electricity required (kWh/tonne feedstock input)<br />

Feed = Total feedstock input (tonnes per day)<br />

Hours = Number <strong>of</strong> operating hours per day<br />

If the contents <strong>of</strong> the digester are being heated, this heat is required, constantly<br />

throughout the days <strong>of</strong> the feedstock availability period plus a time equal to the<br />

retention time after feedstock input has finished. This heat requirement is<br />

calculated using Equation 6.16, using the heat required instead <strong>of</strong> electricity<br />

required, and 24 as the number <strong>of</strong> operating hours. If feedstock heating is being<br />

used, heat is required only during specified times before the feedstock is input.<br />

This heat requirement is, again, calculated using Equation 6.15, substituting the<br />

heat requirement for the electricity requirement. The use <strong>of</strong> well-insulated tanks<br />

ensures that the performance <strong>of</strong> the digester and its energy requirements are not<br />

significantly affected by ambient temperature [6].<br />

6.2.3 Use <strong>of</strong> Biogas<br />

The biogas produced from this process typically contains 60% methane and 40%<br />

carbon dioxide, though these amounts may vary. Again, various options are<br />

available for the use <strong>of</strong> the biogas produced, though the processes involved are<br />

slightly different to those used after gasification, due to the difference in biogas<br />

composition.<br />

193

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