BioGas Test

Summary

This video documents a DIY experiment to light biogas, specifically methane, produced from organic waste. The creator encounters several challenges, including insufficient gas pressure, incorrect nozzle size, and cooler temperatures slowing down digestion. Despite initial setbacks, the experiment succeeds in demonstrating the flammability of methane. The creator adjusts the nozzle and gas flow, eventually producing a visible flame. The experiment highlights the importance of proper equipment, patience, and environmental considerations in the pursuit of using biogas as a sustainable energy source.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker is attempting to light biogas from a balloon but is facing challenges doing it alone without a partner to help compress the balloon.
• 😀 The biogas is supposed to flow through tubing when the balloon is compressed, but the speaker is unable to get the flame to burn initially.
• 😀 The speaker checks that all necessary valves (ball valve and needle valve on the Bunsen burner) are open for the process.
• 😀 The speaker suspects that the absence of a flame may be due to only carbon dioxide being pushed through instead of the actual biogas.
• 😀 The speaker mentions that the biogas process takes time, and it’s been only three weeks, whereas one month is recommended for proper fermentation.
• 😀 The colder temperatures at night may have slowed down the biogas digestion, which is usually done outside.
• 😀 Upon retrying, the speaker finds a small flame burning, which shows that methane gas is indeed present, although it's not a steady supply.
• 😀 The speaker realizes that while methane gas is present, it's not enough to cook a meal yet, but the system works to some extent.
• 😀 The speaker tries an experimental approach by attempting to direct the biogas to a larger nozzle, essentially testing the idea of creating a flamethrower effect.
• 😀 The speaker concludes that finding the right nozzle size is crucial to achieving a consistent flame, as the current nozzle is too big for stable combustion.
• 😀 Overall, while the biogas setup works to some degree, the speaker acknowledges that better equipment, particularly for pumping and burning, is needed to achieve a steady and usable flame.

Q & A

What is the main objective of the experiment described in the video?

The main objective of the experiment is to light biogas, specifically methane, generated from a biogas system, and to assess the feasibility of using it for practical applications such as cooking.

Why is the experiment being conducted alone instead of with a partner?

The experiment is being conducted alone because the individual is attempting to compress the biogas balloon on their own, although it is typically recommended to have a partner for assistance in this process.

What is the role of the balloon and compression in the process?

The balloon is used to store the biogas, and the compression of the balloon helps to move the gas through the tubing and to the burner for ignition.

What is the significance of the ball valve and needle valve being open?

The ball valve and needle valve must be open to allow the flow of the gas through the system, which is crucial for the ignition process.

What issue is encountered initially when trying to light the gas?

Initially, the gas is not burning properly. The issue is that the Bunsen burner’s needle valve appears to be too small, causing the gas to be ineffective for ignition, likely just allowing air to be sucked through instead of burning methane.

How long has the biogas been fermenting, and what is the expected time for proper digestion?

The biogas has been fermenting for about three weeks, and the recommended fermentation time is at least a month for optimal digestion and methane production.

How does cold weather affect the biogas production process?

Cold weather, especially cool nights around 50°F, can slow down the digestion process, potentially delaying the production of usable biogas.

What changes are suggested to improve the experiment’s results?

It is suggested to move the biogas to a warmer location to speed up the digestion process and to consider using a more effective method for compressing and pumping the gas to the burner. A better fitting and nozzle size are also needed for better results.

What was the initial misconception about the experiment?

The initial misconception was that the experiment had failed due to the gas not burning properly. However, it turned out the issue was related to the small needle valve on the Bunsen burner, which was not allowing enough gas to flow for visible combustion.

What did the experimenter discover about the gas being produced?

The experimenter discovered that they were indeed producing methane, which was flammable, but they needed a more consistent method of delivering the gas to the flame for it to burn steadily.

What is the significance of the 'flamethrower' effect demonstrated in the video?

The 'flamethrower' effect occurs when the nozzle is too large, creating a large, unstable flame. While it proves that methane is being produced and ignited, the effect is not practical for cooking or steady use. The correct nozzle size is needed for a controlled flame.

What is the next step for improving the setup?

The next step involves finding a more suitable nozzle size and refining the gas pumping method to achieve a steady, controlled flame that can be used effectively for cooking.