Technology used on the International Space Station is now helping Enfinium improve its waste-to-energy operations. It also helps reduce emissions, and increase plant efficiency.
Key Takeaways
- Enfinium enhances waste-to-energy operations using ultrasonic leak detection technology from Distran, previously used by NASA.
- The sensors detect gas leaks, improving emissions control and operational efficiency in Enfinium’s five UK plants.
- This technology identifies leaks by recognising ultrasounds from gas movement, creating an acoustic image for precise detection.
- The system helps reduce downtime and costs while supporting the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Waste-to-Energy plant operator Enfinium has implemented ultrasonic leak detection sensors across all five of its operational sites in the United Kingdom. The technology is intended to minimise downtime and reduce costs. Additionally, it lowers emissions from the processing of unrecyclable waste.
The sensors, developed by the Swiss manufacturer Distran, are also utilised by Nasa on the International Space Station. They pinpoint gas leaks and maintain cabin pressure.
Precise Detection of Gas and Vacuum Leaks
The handheld technology employs ultrasonic location to identify and visualise leaks of any gas, including steam, CO2, and H2. It functions by detecting the ultrasounds produced by air moving through small apertures. An acoustic image is then overlaid onto an optical image in real time, allowing for the precise pinpointing of leaks.
This capability is used to identify potential leaks within the flue gas handling system, supporting emissions control. The technology is also applied to detect vacuum leaks, where air enters systems operating under negative pressure. Such leaks can reduce plant efficiency by forcing equipment like induced draft fans to consume more energy.
Improving Operational Efficiency and Emissions Control
The implementation of this technology supports Enfinium’s efforts to reduce fugitive emissions. It also helps leverage technology to enhance its operations. The company’s five plants process a total of 2.7 million tonnes of waste annually. This generates sufficient energy to power 600,000 homes in the UK.
Adam Nicholson, Asset Management Director at Enfinium, stated that the technology “allows us to quickly and efficiently survey widespread areas to pinpoint precisely where leaks appear in our operations, allowing us to safely and effectively address the issue.” He noted that this contributes to the reliability and efficiency of the facilities.
Diverting waste from landfill to Energy from Waste facilities helps to reduce overall emissions, as landfill generates almost twice the volume of harmful climate-warming emissions”, Enfinium announced.
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