Energy-Efficient Screw Compression Solutions for Biogas Applications

By Raymond Chan, CEO of ADEKOM Kompressoren

In biogas power generation and upgrading systems, compressor efficiency and reliability directly affect plant output and operating costs.

ADEKOM’s screw compressor technologies are engineered to deliver stable, energy-efficient performance compared with traditional reciprocating piston designs.

The screw compression process provides continuous gas flow with lower pulsation and reduced mechanical stress on components.

This results in longer bearing and seal life, fewer wear parts, and significantly lower maintenance requirements over the service lifetime. By contrast, reciprocating compressors operate under cyclic loading, generating higher vibration levels, temperature fluctuations, and frequent maintenance intervals.

For applications requiring higher discharge pressure or wide inlet gas variations, ADEKOM employs two-stage screw compression with optimized rotor profiles and intercooling, achieving improved isentropic efficiency and lower specific power consumption.

In many cases, overall energy savings of 15–25% can be realized compared to single-stage or reciprocating systems.

Each system is equipped with a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) and high-efficiency, explosion-proof, inverter-duty motor, enabling precise control of rotational speed according to inlet gas composition, suction pressure, and flow rate.

This ensures the compressor continuously operates within its most efficient range throughout varying biogas conditions.

As an energy recovery option, ADEKOM offers integrated heat recovery systems that utilize waste heat from oil or cooling circuits to produce hot water, contributing to the plant’s total thermal efficiency.

To enhance operational reliability and digital connectivity, ADEKOM’s compressors can incorporate an IoT-based monitoring and control module. Operators can remotely access real-time performance data, analyze energy consumption, and receive predictive maintenance alerts, minimizing unplanned downtime and optimizing long-term efficiency.

Through a combination of advanced thermodynamic design, intelligent control, and robust mechanical engineering, ADEKOM provides comprehensive compression solutions that maximize energy utilization and process reliability in modern biogas installations.

Author Note: Raymond CHAN, CEO of ADEKOM Kompressoren, is a seasoned expert in air and gas compressor systems with over 28 years of pioneering experience across Asia and global markets.

Specializing in innovative renewable gas solutions—including biogas, RNG, natural gas, CO₂, and H₂—he has spearheaded more than 100 projects that upgrade biogas and landfill gas into reliable RNG and power generation assets.

His deep technical expertise in compressor products and turnkey system development has been a driving force behind transformative, sustainable energy solutions worldwide.

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