Protecting Landfill RNG Metering Skid with Fiberglass Enclosure Case Study
The Project
Municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills are the third-largest source of human-related methane emissions in the United States. Instead of letting the methane escape into the air, landfill gas (LFG) can be captured, converted, and used as renewable natural gas (RNG). Landfill gas is collected using a series of wells and pipes embedded in the landfill. It is then directed to a processing facility, where impurities are removed, and the methane is purified to meet the standards required for pipeline-quality RNG.
Shelter Works recently produced a fiberglass shelter to protect a metering skid that measures and regulates the flow of the purified gas, ensuring that it meets quality and quantity specifications before it is injected into the natural gas pipeline. This precise measurement and regulation are essential for maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the RNG supply chain.
The custom blue 6 x 8 x 8 fiberglass shelter is not just any shelter. It's a product designed with the unique needs of this RNG application in mind.
Key Features of Our Custom Fiberglass Shelter
- Knock-out Panels: One standout feature is the four knock-out panels, a custom accommodation that allows the shelter to be placed over existing pipes. This not only simplifies installation but also seamlessly integrates the shelter into the existing landfill infrastructure, minimizing disruption and downtime.
- Bulkheads: The shelter also includes two fiberglass-only sections of wall located in specified areas. Bulkheads allow end users to make necessary infield penetrations without exposing the walls' coring materials. Both knock-out panels and bulkheads provide design flexibility while maintaining the shelter's 25-year warranty.
- Electrical Upgrade: Safety is a top priority, given the shelter's location and potential exposure to landfill gases. The enclosure is equipped with a C1D1-certified hazardous location electrical package, ensuring the safety of the componentry should it be exposed to flammable gases or vapors during operation.
- Ventilation: The shelter uses natural ventilation to dissipate heat and prevent the accumulation of hazardous gases. An aluminum vent placed low on one wall, and a roof-mounted wind-driven turbine encourage airflow throughout the shelter, maintaining a stable environment for the RNG metering skid.
Why Fiberglass Excels in Landfill Environments
Fiberglass is not just a preference but a strategic choice. Its superior durability, corrosion resistance, and low maintenance requirements ensure long-lasting field equipment protection. Unlike metal, fiberglass does not rust or corrode when exposed to harsh landfill gases, liquids, and chemicals. This resilience not only reduces the risk of operational downtime and unnecessary maintenance costs but also instills confidence in the longevity of your investment.
Shelter Works' fiberglass enclosures offer a robust and adaptable solution for protecting RNG metering skids at landfills. Fiberglass provides unmatched durability and resistance to environmental hazards while allowing for custom features that ensure ease of installation, design flexibility, and compliance with safety standards. With Shelter Works fiberglass enclosures, you can confidently safeguard your RNG equipment and assure reliable and efficient operation.