The worldwide growing Anaerobic Digestion (AD) and Biogas sector faces a massive problem while converting organic waste to biogas: Foam. Excess foaming generated in the AD process can reduce gas production by up to 40% and cause huge damages.

An innovative six point HyLink radio transmission level system, supplied by leading level measuring specialists Hycontrol, is providing crucial operational data on the contents of screen house bins at Lafarge’s Hafod quarry in south Wales, producing over 250,000 tons of grit stone per year. Level data from the screen house bins is transmitted simultaneously to the receiver in the crusher control room and to robust portable receiver units in the cabs of the two dumper trucks used to transport screened product around the site.

A comprehensive ATEX certified multi-point TDR radar level measuring and data recording system installed by Hycontrol is providing invaluable stock management information for leading chemical distributors Caldic UK Ltd. The VF series Guided Wave Radar Transmitters are fitted to Caldic’s nineteen 55,000 litre bulk storage vessels, which are at the heart of their operation in Chesterfield.

Foam generated in anaerobic digestion can be a costly headache for AD producers and their insurers. In this article Sam Gould, Foam Technology Specialist at level measurement pioneers Hycontrol, discusses the problems uncontrolled foam can cause and how Hycontrol’s SureSense⁺ system can address them.

Proven measurement technology leads to optimised foam control and reduced process costs Introduction. Exciting new technology developments in foam measurement and control are bringing important benefits to the waste water industry, as well as a wide range of other process industries. The accurate and reliable measurement of foam brings substantial savings to companies through the improved control of anti-foaming agents, improved process control, increased yield, reduced product loss and reduction in equipment failure.

A multi-point high-accuracy TDR radar level measurement system installed by Hycontrol is playing important safety and logistical roles on the tank farm of a waste processing company in northern England.

Powdered lime is utilised extensively in the treatment of wastewater; for example, to reduce odour in raw, primary sludge, as a cost-effective alternative to using digesters. It is also used in other water treatment processes to help balance pH levels and as part of composting methods for sludge removed from the bottom of primary tanks after it has been de-watered and compressed. The lime and remaining water in the sludge together creates a heated chemical reaction, accelerating the process.