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Biogas Production Fluctuations Associated with Feeding Frequency for a Mixed Digester

Published by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, St. Joseph, Michigan www.asabe.org

Citation:  Sixth International Dairy Housing Conference Proceeding, 16-18 June 2007, (Minneapolis, Minnesota) (Electronic Only)  701P0507e.(doi:10.13031/2013.22810)
Authors:   Scott F Inglis, Curt A Gooch
Keywords:   Dairy manure, anaerobic digestion, Whey, Biogas, Feeding rate, Food waste

A mixed digester accepting food waste and separated liquid manure in New York State was experiencing electrical generation and biogas production fluctuations after feeding. An increase in the frequency of food waste addition to the pre-mix tank and subsequently from the pre-mix tank to the digester was attempted to reduce the fluctuations. Quantification of the feeding changes on electrical generation and biogas production was determined by the average, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation of fifteen minute data for 72 hours before and after the feeding change. The changes in feeding frequencies reduced the coefficient of variation by 14.2% for electrical generation and 43.5% for biogas production, while the standard deviation was reduced by 12.4% for electrical generation and 33.7% for biogas production. Overall average electrical generation and biogas production was increased by 1.7% and 17% respectively. Feeding the digester more frequently with less mass each feeding allowed for more consistent electrical generation and biogas production. Greater consistency in electrical generation and biogas production as a result of consistent feeding may improve bottom line economic performance of mixed anaerobic digesters.

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