BIOCH4NGE®

Among the various upgrading technologies for biomethane available on the market, AB offers the BIOCH4NGE® solution for compressed biomethane, which uses a membrane system, the most widespread and most commonly used in the world. The membranes are made up of special polymeric materials characterized by a selective permeability useful for the separation between CH₄ and CO₂.

*example image Layout and elements to be defined based on the available spaces and the configuration chosen

BIOCH4NGE® is available in standardized sizes covering a wide range of incoming biogas flow rates, from 50 to 5,000 Nm³/h, and can be integrated with modules dedicated to biomethane liquefaction and CO₂ valorization. Custom configurations can also be developed to meet specific plant requirements.

The process consists of several phases.

In the first phase, a chilled water heat exchanger, supplied by a chiller, lowers the biogas temperature from the digester, while a condensation separator removes excess water. Downstream of dehumidification, a blower compresses the gas at a suitable pressure for subsequent treatments.

Biogas then passes into the activated carbon tanks for the abatement of volatile organic compounds and hydrogen sulfide.

Once filtered, the biogas is compressed and enters the heart of the BIOCH4NGE® upgrading plant, where methane is separated from carbon dioxide using a multi-stage membrane system. The biomethane that conforms to the required standard is sent to the compression process, if needed, before being injected into the grid.

BIOCH4NGE® is completed by a series of preparatory options for feeding into the network and other accessories to support the operation of the system.

AB offers a range of regenerative thermal oxidisers (RTOs), to eliminate even the smallest percentages of residual methane in the off-gas.
Biomethane is produced at a pressure in a range from 7 to 15 bar to minimise consumption, but also to facilitate injection into distribution networks where necessary.

• Optimal integration within the BIOCH4NGE® system and reliable end-to-end design
  The compressor is engineered to seamlessly integrate with all system modules, from pretreatment to the membrane upgrading module. The layout is designed to maximize operational reliability, protecting equipment and reducing risks and downtime.

• Plug-and-play solution, adaptable to all compressor sizes
  Each AB compressor is modular and ready to use, with prefabricated and standardized connections that simplify installation. The same technology can meet the needs of the entire BIOCH4NGE® range, enabling standardized operations and maintenance across different plants.

• High energy efficiency
  Designed to optimize consumption and performance, the AB compressor lowers plant operating costs while maintaining high gas flow rates and working pressures.

• Improved enclosure and ventilation management
  The design of the outer structure and ventilation system protects the compressor and other system modules, ensuring stable operation even under the most critical conditions.

• Service, commissioning, and spare parts fully managed by AB
  AB oversees all phases internally: from factory testing to field commissioning, as well as routine and extraordinary maintenance. Spare parts are directly accessible without relying on external suppliers, and remote monitoring enables fast and efficient interventions.

By maintaining full control over the development of this strategic component, AB strengthens its integrated and customized approach, supporting the performance of biomethane plants.