Biomethane Reverse Flow Compression Solutions

Decentralized biomethane production can result in more renewable gas entering a local distribution network than can be consumed or accommodated within that network. Biomethane reverse flow enables this excess gas to be compressed from a lower-pressure network level and transferred into a higher-pressure network.

This increases the capacity and flexibility of existing gas infrastructure, reduces limitations on local biomethane production and allows renewable gas to be transported to other consumers or storage facilities.

Reliable compression is central to the reverse-flow process. The compressor solution must accommodate changing network pressures and flow rates while supporting continuous operation, efficient part-load performance and minimized methane emissions.

With more than 80 years of experience in reciprocating high pressure compressor technology, LMF develops tailor-made compressor solutions for biomethane reverse flow applications. Every solution is individually engineered according to the suction and discharge pressures, required flow range, gas composition, operating profile and applicable network specifications.

For the initial injection of upgraded biomethane into a gas network, explore our Biomethane Grid Injection Solutions.

Recommended Compression Solutions by LMF

Mobile Compressors

Recommended for temporary biomethane reverse flow during maintenance, commissioning, network modifications or the construction of a permanent compressor station. Mobile compressor units provide flexible compression capacity wherever temporary reverse-flow operation is required.

  • Capacity:
    up to 22 Nm³/min
  • Pressure:
    up to 120 bar
  • Power consumption:
    up to 350 kW

ISO 13631 Compressors

Recommended for permanent biomethane reverse-flow stations requiring continuous operation, stable gas transfer and reliable performance under changing network conditions. Pressure-tight crankcase designs are available for elevated suction pressures, helping to reduce potential methane emissions and product losses.

  • Capacity:
    up to 3 000 Nm³/h
  • Pressure:
    up to 75 bar
    Pressure-tight up to 25 barg
  • Power consumption:
    up to 600 kW

Selected References 

Pre-Select a Biomethane Compressor with CompXpert

Enter your initial process parameters to estimate key process values, pre-select a suitable LMF compressor model and generate an inquiry for our experts.

Contact Our Experts

Looking for a compressor solution for your biomethane reverse flow project?
Our experts support you from the initial project phase through engineering, manufacturing and commissioning to develop a tailor-made compressor solution that precisely meets your project requirements.

FAQs

Biomethane reverse flow is the transfer of gas from a lower-pressure distribution network into a higher-pressure network. It is typically required when local biomethane production exceeds the consumption or transport capacity of the distribution network.

The biomethane must be compressed above the pressure of the receiving network. The compressor provides the required pressure increase and enables controlled gas transfer between the different network levels.

Grid injection refers to feeding upgraded biomethane into a gas network. Reverse flow is a subsequent network process that transfers gas from a lower-pressure network level to a higher-pressure network when additional transport capacity is required.

LMF engineers the compressor solution according to the expected range of suction pressures, discharge pressures and flow rates. The compressor and control system are configured to support reliable operation across the specified operating range.

Potential methane emissions can be reduced through suitable sealing concepts, pressure-tight crankcase designs, controlled vent and leakage-gas systems, and project-specific package engineering. The appropriate configuration depends on the network pressures and operating requirements.