Anaerobic digester purge

[chemEIT]

We have anaerobic digesters which require frequent maintenence activities. Has anyone heard of purging the digester tanks?? Our concern is to reduce the oxygen content in the digester below the explosive limit. One of our senior engineer has the view that in a digester system the explosive range cannot be attained as easily, since the methane being produced will react with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, so the oxygen may be consumed before enough biogas is present to form an explosive mixture!!!! any input regarding this will be greatly appreciated

 

[dirkbouma]

Agree with your senior engineer. Normal microbial consortia in digesters will use up the oxygen, converting it to CO2. Gas production pressurizes your system, so you shouldn't need to purge.