MSW Cogen Term Paper Report

Bio-energy, MEng 6222
Term Paper on CHP Plant that utilizes biodegradable MSW of Mekelle City Page 1
MEKELLE UNIVERSTY

ETIOPIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY MEKELLE

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

M.Sc Program in Energy Technology

Bio-Energy, MEng 6222

Term Paper Assignment on:
A Cogeneration Plant that utilizes biodegradable waste of Mekelle City

Submitted to: Ftwi Yohaness (Ass. Prof.)
Mr. Mussie Tesfay (Lecturer)
Submitted by: Akatew Haile
Habtewold Ababu
Tariku Firdisa

.' .

Table of Contents Page
Abstract
1. Waste -to-energy Technologies ....1
1.1. Incineration ...1
1.2. Land Fill Gas ...3
1.3. Anaerobic Digestion.....4
1.4. Gasification..4
2. Case Study: Mekelle Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) ....5
2.1 Solid Waste Generation and characteristics ..5
2.2 Energy Content of MSW .7
2.3 MSW Collection ..8
2.4 Handling and Disposal of MSW ....8
3. Land Fill Gas utilization ..9
3.1 Why Land Fill Gas for Mekelle MSW? 9
3.2 LFG Generation..10
3.3 LFG Collection, Pumping and transmission ....13
3.4 LFG Conversion Technologies ..15
3.5 Cogeneration Plant (CHP) utilizing LFG ..18
3.6 Energy Production 19
4. Benefit of the Project .23
5. Conclusion and recommendation .....24
6. References ...25


Abstract
Land fill gas utilization is one method that is implemented currently in conversion of wastetoenergy.
This term paper discusses with Land Fill Gas (LFG) utilization of Mekelle municipal solid waste for
combined and heat power generation. It also addresses the waste generation rate and types, waste
collection, MSW handling and processing, disposal and energy value (if any) of the municipal solid
waste. Sanitary land Fill of the city which is functional since 2008 (2000 E.C) and planned to serve for
thirty years is regarded to serve as both MSW disposal place and source of LFG. LFG utilization in
fueling the CHP plant that is going to be designed is selected in connection with Sanitary Land Fill
project and the other benefit it gives when compared with other Waste to energy technologies. Land
Fill gas (LFG) generation and conversion technologies are discussed. With the LFG as a fuel,
combined heat and power plant is going to be designed. The power produced and the achievable
efficiency is going to be determined. Benefit of the project is explained based on its performance.


1. Waste-to-energy Technologies
Technology
Waste-to-energy technology involves converting various elements of municipal solid waste such as
paper, plastics, and woods to generate energy by either thermo-chemical or biochemical processes.
The thermo-chemical techniques consist of combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis that produce high
heat in fast reaction times. The biochemical processes consist of anaerobic digestion, hydrolysis, and
fermentation using enzymes that produce low heat in slow reaction times. Figure 1 illustrates the
potential output energy technologies and the products that result from these processes. [1]
After determining the composition of the waste, the appropriate waste-to-energy
System can be selected based on the available resources. The most common waste-to-energy
technologies are briefly discussed below.

1.1 Incineration
Incineration, also referred to as mass combustion, is a specialized process that involves the burning
of organic materials in any state to form gaseous and residue. The basic elements of an incinerator
include a feed system, combustion chamber, exhaust gas system and a residue disposal system;
whereas modern incinerators use continuous feed systems and moving grates within a primary
combustion chamber lined with heat resistant materials. The waste must be mixed, dried, and then
heated, all for specific amounts of time and at controlled temperatures.

The advantage of incineration is to combust solid waste, reducing its volume and producing non-
offensive gases and non-combustive ash residues. Volume can be reduced by 80-95% and weight by
70-80% and thus incineration significantly reduces the land required for disposal of municipal wastes.
But incineration has high capital and operating costs. A major consideration is operating problems
which can occur as a result of variability of the waste over time. [2]


Figure 1: Waste-to-energy technologies and their respective out puts

1.2 Land Fill Gas (LFG) from Sanitary Land fill
Generation of methane from a sanitary landfill is similar to anaerobic digestion, but without
operational control of the process. The waste is simply left as is with no efforts made to increase gas
production; gas is simply captured as it is generated. Typical landfill gas has an energy equivalent to
about half that of natural gas. The methane concentration of the gas is 40 60%. The decomposition
process within a landfill consists of an aerobic stage, anaerobic non-methanogenic stage, anaerobic
methane production build-up stage and finally an anaerobic steady state stage.


When methane collected off of the landfill is used for energy, the amount released to the atmosphere
is reduced. Landfills are the largest anthropogenic source of methane, accounting for 40% of these
emissions. Gas collection also reduces odors, vegetation damage, and fires, and can be a source of
revenue. [2]

Landfill gas utilization typically requires less maintenance and operation costs compared to anaerobic
digestion. Gas extraction is environmentally beneficial, and considerable economic potential exists for
methane recovery. Landfill gas utilization can be quite simple and economical if a sufficient land and
factory or large building is located near the landfill where the gas can be piped directly into a boiler.

1.3 Anaerobic Digestion
Anaerobic digestion is the decay of organic matter without oxygen producing primarily carbon dioxide
and methane, but also small amounts of hydrogen sulphide, ammonia, and other compounds. The
putrescible and combustible (paper) fraction of the waste is removed and placed in a contained
digester to decay. Three main steps are involved in anaerobic digestion. The first involves the
preparation of the organic fraction of the waste including sorting, separating and size reduction. The
second step involves adding moisture and nutrients, blending, adjusting the pH to about 6.7 and
heating the slurry to about 55-60C. The contents are well mixed for 5-10 days. The third step
involves capture, separation and storage of the gas components.

The purpose of anaerobic digesters is to utilize the gas produced by decomposing waste as a source
of fuel. Waste can be aerobically composted after anaerobic digestion to obtain the benefits of both
biogas as well as compost for soil improvement.
Anaerobic digestion will be more feasible if it is combined with sewage or agricultural waste digestion.
Anaerobic digestion is commonly used for treatment of sewage and manure because this material is
uniform and easily degradable. The addition of such materials to MSW would enhance the digestion
process [2].

1.4 Gasification
Gasification is the reaction of organic matter with steam, producing carbon monoxide and hydrogen.
Gasification is a modification of pyrolysis in that a limited quantity of oxygen is introduced, and the
resulting oxidation produces enough heat to make the process self-sustaining. Gasification occurs at

very high temperatures (greater than 700C) and involves the partial combustion of a carbonaceous
fuel, which produces combustible fuel gas rich in carbon monoxide, hydrogen and some saturated
hydrocarbons (mostly methane). The combustible fuel the process produces can be combusted in an
internal combustion engine.

The products of gasification are very useful for making products including methanol, ammonia, and
diesel. The process is quite energy efficient 60% to 90%. Waste volume is reduced by about 90% and
only 8-12% ash is produced compared to 15-20% for incineration. Application of gasification to
municipal waste is still a relatively new development [2].

2. Case Study: Mekelle Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)
The Mekelle city administration municipality bureau has compiled a study report entitled Final
Feasibility and Preliminary Design report for Mekelle City Integrated Solid Waste Management for
the proper management of the municipality solid wastes by a consulting organization called Promise
Consulting Architects and Engineers.
The objective of the report is to describe the overall assessment, findings and recommendations
made in the study and design of solid waste management system of Mekelle by the consulting
company. The report assessed the existing sold waste management and tried to give responses
accordingly to alleviate threats that are facing the environment and inhabitants of Mekelle city.
This report was prepared based on the initiative of the Mekelle City Administration for improved SWM
system. The system addresses each components of ISWM, i.e., reduction, storage, transportation,
recovery and disposal in a cost effective, environmental friendly and sustainable manner. The service
is expected to develop a solid waste master plan that gives a solution to problems related to Solid
Waste services. Previously, waste disposal of the city was in an uncontrolled and non-engineered
way of open dumping and burning at a distance of 5Km from the centre to the old airport road.
2.1 Solid Waste Generation and characteristics
Prior to the report, it was impossible to get a comprehensive study made concerning Mekelle city that
enables to know the rates of generation and characteristics of solid waste from different urban
activities and sources. Even the sources and solid waste category are not clearly identified in the
existing municipal solid waste (MSW) management service.

The consultant has underlined that basic technical information do not exist in relation to existing SW
rate of generation, composition and source, which is required to undertake comprehensive study on
Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) and good planning and design of solid waste
management infrastructure for improved SW service.
Table 1: City-wise Types of composition of Solid Wastes from Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) (Source:
Mekelle Municipal)
Type Solid Waste from MSW
Yearly volume (m
3
)
2005 2010 2015
Organic recyclable(including paper + others) 46347.37 75201.63 90761.14
Organic recyclable(excluding paper) 37368.43 61155.88 73788.50
Organic recyclable(excluding paper +others) 26126.11 42721.20 51547.28
Plastic(all) 10002.49 16570.63 19985.63
Special wastes(excluding Yard wastes) 288.84 458.16 553.38
Hazardous waste rejects 2484.15 4022.18 4838.16
Hazardous plus special rejects(excluding yard waste) 3017.56 4836.26 5814.40
Non-hazardous rejects 10299.71 15770.73 18869.29
Recyclables other than organics & plastic 18335.05 30674.03 36983.93
TOTAL 154269.71 251410.70 303141.71
Note: Rejects are to be transported to Land fill sites;

The consultant had tried to classify the waste categories projecting their yearly capacity (volume)
from the survey made. But the report does not include technical information concerning the MSW. For
instance, it is impossible to get specific types of waste and their energy density. Nevertheless,
according to oral information obtained from the Municipal, the MSW generation rate of Mekelle city is

estimated to be 0.268kg/capita/day [8]. Currently (2011) the population of the city, as projected by the
consultant, is 302,538. [3]
Based on this population size the daily bulk of MSW will be 81.08 tons and on annual basis it
becomes 29594.267 tons/year. Table 1 above summarizes the general MSW types with their
projected volume.
2.2 Energy content of MSW
Even though the report does not include the energy content, from literatures, the energy content of
the most common MSW is as shown in table below. The energy content of the waste constituents can
vary from one Land fill to another.
Table 2. Average composition and heating value of common MSW.

(Source: Nicholas P. Cheremisinoff,Ph.D, Hand Book of Solid Waste Management and Waste
Minimization Technologies)


2.3 Collection of the MSW
The collection of MSWs is done by two main responsible groups. They are the private service groups
(companies) and the city administration municipality administration bureau. Private services
(companies) collect the MSW using primary collection methods while the municipal makes collection
and disposal of the solid wastes to the landfill site. With the existing facilities the present collection
efficiency of the City Administration is estimated to be 52% of the solid waste.
The collection of MSW is carried out in to two category stages: Primary collection and Secondary
collection.
Primary collection: The purpose of Primary collection operation is to transfer and store solid waste
materials from the generating bodies to the communal storage and then to the secondary collection
facilities. The following observations have been drawn on the activities of each mode of primary
collection:
Municipal Tractor-trailer
Door to door collection by Privately Service providing companies
Street sweepers with Hand Carts &Wheel Barrows
Secondary collection and Transportation: The secondary collection is used to collect the bulk
quantity of the municipal solid waste from the primary communal storage to the landfill using skip
loader. Presently, the city municipality is the only institution that provides communal storages and
performs secondary collection of garbage to disposal sites.
2.4 Handling and Disposal Of MSW
At the sanitary land Fill site material recovery (recycling) from the waste will be considered. Also
separation of biodegradable waste from hazardous and special waste types will be done. Then the
biodegradable ones will be processed, if any. At last, the biodegradable ones and the hazardous and
special ones are dumped within their own Landfills areas.
As the landfill of the city has no permanent equipments, the MSWs covering and compaction
processes are not regularly executed in the sites. The preliminary design work of promise consult has
considered an average waste-to-cover ratio of 7.5:1.


3. Land Fill Gas utilization
3.1 Why LFG for Mekelle MSW?
The MSW of Mekelle city has been dumped in two open dumps, around Messobo and Qiuha, in an
uncontrolled manner. But for the farmers and the city community opposed this way of waste disposal,
the Municipal has planned to construct a new Sanitary Land Fill that will serve for thirty years of time.
According to information from the Municipal, this land fill located around Adi-kolomay, has an area of
21 hectare and has begun service three years ago.
The Land Fill studied and designed by Promise Consulting and Architects will have two parts, one for
biodegradable wastes and the other for hazardous wastes. The biodegradable waste (e.g. Papers
and food waste) will decompose over the lifecycle of the landfill as a result of microbial action. This
decomposition yields leachate and gas, consisting primarily methane and carbon dioxide. This land
fill, instead of being source of anthropogenic emitting gases it can be a source of LFG which can be
used for heating and renewable power generation. Energy generation, using LFG, requires less
operating and maintenance costs. Land fill gas is generated as the waste is decomposed and
continues after the closure of the land fill. So LFG has proven to be a reliable fuel source. Utilization
of the LFG avoids problems like odor, possible risk of explosion and fires, pollution and creates
revenue as LFG utilization falls under renewable energy schemes.
In fact Anaerobic Digestion is also another option in converting the MSW to energy. But when
compared to LFG utilization it requires higher operation and maintenance costs. Again for Ad to be
feasible the waste has to mix with sewage or agricultural waste to accelerate digestion. For no
information is available regarding these two wastes, LFG utilization has been chosen.
Although the Municipal has not planned any energy recovery system at the land Fill, this technology
seems the right option in connection with the proposed disposal, Sanitary Land Fill. In this project
(term paper), it is assumed that there is thermal energy demanding processes nearby the land fill.
3.2 LFG Generation
Generation of LFG is a complicated biological process, with essential microbial activity. LFG is
generated as a result of the biodegradation of organic carbon in waste. Approximately 1.87 m
3
of LFG

is produced per kg of degraded organic carbon (with a content of 50 percent CH4). Organic material
in the waste is decomposed in four main phases figure below [4].

Figure 2. LFG Generation after Waste Disposal
The LFG is generated by anaerobic (without oxygen) decomposition of the degradable organic waste.
The four main phases are listed below.
Phase I Aerobic: A few days to a few weeks
Phase II Anaerobic, non-methanogenic: One month to 1 year
Phase III - Anaerobic, methanogenic, unsteady: A few months to 2 years
Phase IV - Anaerobic, methanogenic, steady: 10 to 50 years
After the anaerobic phase, the waste will finally stabilize after 30 to 50 years.
The composition of the main components in LFG is shown in Table below.

Table 3. Composition of the Main Gases and Trace Components in LFG [4]

LFG production varies considerably from one land fill to another, depending on the situation in the
individual country and landfill. The production rate depends on [4]:
Temperature in the landfill: increased temperature accelerates microbiological activity up to that
optimum temperature level.
Moisture content of the waste: Moisture can accelerate bacterial activity or smother it completely if the
waste is completely saturated.
Waste composition: Middle- The composition of the waste affects the decomposition rate: the faster
the organic material decomposes, the higher the rate of LFG production
Waste age: LFG production reaches its maximum capacity after 38 years and normally decreases
after 1530 years, when it is no longer profitable to extract the gas for energy purposes.
Waste structure: Because degrading microorganisms are active in the water film around the waste
particles, smaller particles of organic materials produce more LFG.
Landfill cover: Landfills must be covered to keep out atmospheric air, which will disturb the anaerobic
conditions. The cover material should allow penetration of rainwater to maintain adequate humidity in
the waste.

Gas Generation Models: There are several models to estimate LFG production and extraction.
These models include the simple zero order model, the first order model, and the most recent, the
multi-phase model.
Based on the available data, we have chosen the first order model in which, LFG generation in a
given amount of waste is assumed to decay exponentially over time using the following equation:
Q
CH4i
= k * L
o
* m
i
* e
-kt

Where, Q
CH4i
= annual methane (CH
4
) generation in the year i of the calculation (m3/year), and k =
methane generation constant (the k value is related the half-life of waste degradation t
2
according to
the formula t
2
= l(n)/k), L
o
= methane generation potential/kg, and m
i
= waste mass disposed of in
year i.
A first order type model called LANDGEM (PLEXSCAPE 2011) which is an on line model is used in
our case [10]. The following data were entered for this software.
- k = 0.05 (medium degradable)
- population growth rate = 4.4%
- start year = 2000 (E.C), end year = 2030 (E.C)
- waste generation per capita = 0.286 kg/cap. day
- L
o
= 160 m3 CH
4
/tonne
- NMOC = 595 ppmv as hexane
- Methane percentage = 50%
The model resulted in the total LFG, average and maximum methane generated per year in both
charts (below) and tabular form.


Figure 3: Generated LFG as a function of time
Upgrading of LFG which includes tasks as removing moisture content, carbon dioxide removal,
removal of halogenated compounds and hydrogen sulphides requires to be done for LFG to be
utilized in power generation. This task upgrades LFG to high grade fuel improving its quality. With this
assumption the model yielded the following:
Sum: 93,495,928.88 m3 Avg: 3,116,530.96 m3/y Max: 6,900,215.40 m3/y methane
For design purposes considering the maximum value, methane of 18,904.7 m3/day will be obtained.
This figure indicates the amount of methane that is generated from the total Land fill. For all of this
amount cannot be collected, let us assume a collection efficiency of 75% so that the collected amount
will be 14178.5 m3/day or 9296.84 kg/day. This means 387.4 kg/hr and 3393.3475 tons/year of
methane would be collected.
3.3 LFG Collection, Pumping and Transmission
The extraction system in an LFG recovery plan can consist of vertical perforated pipes, horizontal
perforated pipes, ditches, or, in some cases, a membrane covering the landfill under which the
produced gas is collected. The most common method of active gas collection is to extract gas
through vertical perforated pipes, possibly because this is the simplest method where a landfill is
already established. The well is typically drilled with an auger with a diameter of 50100 centimeters.

After drilling, a perforated polyethylene pipe with a diameter of 1015 cm is placed in the middle of
the hole, and gravel is filled in around the pipe. Vertical extraction wells are typically placed 4080
meters apart, depending on the landfill depth [4].

Figure 4: Typical LFG Extraction Well [9]
LFG is extracted by a gas pump or compressor, which provides sufficient vacuum to pull gas from the
landfill. A normal vacuum measures 20100 millibars at the wellhead. The decision whether to use a
pump or a compressor depends on site-specific requirements, particularly the pressure required for
gas transport and the inlet pressure for the gas combustion device [4].
The most widely used gas pump is a radial blower, which is relatively simple and economical. Hence,
in this case vertical pipes for better quality methane and radial blower pump are assumed.
The individual wells can be connected to the pump and utilization system in several ways. The most
common design is to connect the wells to a main collection pipe, which is placed in the optimal way in
the landfill. Figure below illustrates this method.


Figure 5: Extraction System with Each Well Connected to a Main Collection Pipe [5]
3.4 LFG Conversion Technologies
LFG is a wet gas with different concentrations of a number of trace gases and high moisture content,
which may cause problems like corrosion of the equipment. Depending upon the application, the raw
LFG may require some level of gas processing prior to being utilized in order to reduce these
problems. LFG can be classified into three categories, based on the level of pretreatment/processing
prior to utilization. These are: Low-grade LFG fuel, medium-grade fuel and high-grade fuel [5].
Low- and medium-grade fuel produced from LFG has a heating value of approximately 16.8 MJ/m3 is
roughly one-half the heating value of natural gas. LFG that has been further processed and treated to
produce high-grade fuel has a higher heating value (37.3 MJ/m3) than low and medium grade fuel,
and can be substituted directly for natural gas in pipeline applications [5].

Medium-grade fuel has a broader range of fuel applications than low-grade fuel because of the
reduction in corrosive constituents. Although high grade fuel requires higher processing cost than the
medium-grade, it yields in a higher calorific value almost two times to the medium one. So we have
assumed the LFG will be processed to higher-grade fuel within this project. The cost of processing
can be offset by the reduced maintenance costs resulted from removal of moisture and other gases.

The two most common technologies for utilizing LFG for power generation purposes are
Reciprocating gas Engines and Gas Turbines.
Reciprocating Gas Engines
Reciprocating engines that use medium grade LFG as a fuel are available in various sizes with
electrical outputs ranging from less than 0.5 MW to more than 3.0 MW per unit. They have a
comparatively low capital cost per kW and a higher efficiency than most gas turbines. The
disadvantages of this technology include higher maintenance costs than for gas turbines and a
requirement for skilled maintenance personnel. Exhaust gases may contain some products of
incomplete combustion and there is a high lubricating-oil consumption, which includes need for
provision of disposal of the waste oil.
Gas Turbines
Gas turbines are available as modular and packaged systems. Gas turbines may have some
application for sites with higher, more stable LFG production rates. Gas turbines are generally larger
than reciprocating engines with electrical outputs ranging from 1 MW to 8 MW for each unit. Gas
turbines also offer the flexibility of modular expansion to suit changes in LFG production however; the
incremental stages are larger than for reciprocating engines. Gas turbines usually have a higher
capital cost associated with initial set up with somewhat lower energy conversion efficiencies
compared to reciprocating engines. However, they generally offer superior exhaust emission
characteristics, reduced operating and maintenance costs and greater operational flexibility (in the
ability to maintain reasonable efficiency despite fluctuations in LFG flow and characteristics) than
reciprocating engines. In addition, gas turbines also offer the flexibility to proceed directly to the
combined cycle. These positive features of gas turbines have been found to offset the lower capital
cost and higher energy conversion efficiency of reciprocating engines [5].
The main characteristics of gas turbine are;
Best suited for base-load applications; can also handle peaking and load following applications
as well
Combustion turbines are much more compact and lighter than similar capacity reciprocating
engines
NOx emissions from combustion turbines are lower than those from IC engines

The hot products of combustion expand through specially designed blades mounted on a
shaft, producing a high-speed rotary motion that is generally used for driving an electric
generator that produces electric power
Exhaust gases leaving a turbine are at a high temperature (900
o
F to 1,100
o
F). This high quality
heat is excellent for producing high-grade steam

3.5 Cogeneration Plant utilizing LFG
The most common energy application for LFG is on-site generation of electricity using raw or partially
processed LFG as a fuel. Typically, the LFG is used in a reciprocating internal combustion gas engine
or gas turbine driving an electrical power generator. Micro turbines similarly use the LFG as a boiler
fuel for a steam turbine generating facility as well.

Several factors must be evaluated when considering generating electricity with LFG, whether the
technology involves microturbines, reciprocating engines, gas turbines, combined cycle, or steam
turbines. Electrical conversion efficiency, which is an indication of what portion of the energy value of
the LFG can be converted into electrical power, varies with each technology. Other important factors
that must be considered when deciding on whether or not to utilize the LFG for electrical generation
include availability, installation cost, operation and maintenance costs, and emissions, all of which are
site specific.

Table below presents the typical flow ranges required to make the implementation of the following
electrical power generation technologies viable. It also shows the typical power ranges associated
with the various LFG technologies and flow rates [4]. (1 cfm = 9.75 tons LFG/year)


Table 4: flow range, plant size and electrical efficiency of LFG technologies
Technology Typical flow range Preferred plant Size
Electrical Conversion
Efficiency
Microturbines
<100 cfm <100 kW 25 30%
Reciprocating Engines >150 to 5,000 cfm 0.5 to 12 MW 32-40%
Gas turbines >4,000 to 20,000 cfm 3 to 18 MW 26-32%
Steam turbines >6,000 to >25,000 cfm 10 to 50 MW 24-29%
Combined Cycle
Systems
5,000 to >25,000 cfm
>10 MW 38-45%

Gas Turbine Cogeneration System
Gas turbine systems operate on the thermodynamic cycle known as the Brayton cycle. In a Brayton
cycle, atmospheric air is compressed, heated, and then expanded, with the excess of power
produced by the turbine or expander over that consumed by the compressor used for power
generation.
Gas turbine cogeneration systems can produce all or a part of the energy requirement of the site, and
the energy released at high temperature in the exhaust stack can be recovered for various heating
and cooling applications. Because of the above positive features of gas turbine, we have selected a
Centaur 40 gas Turbine which is a product of Solar Turbines Company with 3.515 MW
e
capacity and
applicable for CHP plant [11].
3.6 Energy Production
In gas Turbines the compressed air from compressor reacts with the fuel in combustion chamber. The
turbines rotational motion is as a result of some part of thermal energy of the hot flue gases. Here the
fuel is methane produced from processed LFG to a high-grade fuel. According to the following
equation, two moles of air is required for complete (stoichiometric) combustion of methane.
CH
4
+ 2(O
2
+ 3.76N
2
) CO
2
+ 2H
2
O + 7.52N
2

Methane flow rate is 0.1076 kg/s, using the molar mass of air (28.97 kg/kmol), the air required to burn
the fuel of 0.1076 kg would be 0.3896 kg. But in gas turbines excess air up to 300% can be applied.

Hence, if we consider an excess air of 200%, the balanced combustion equation of the fuel with the
air would become;
CH
4
+ 3O
2
+ 11.28N
2
CO
2
+ 2H
2
O + 11.28N
2
+ O
2

From this equation the air-fuel ratio (A/F) becomes;
A/F = 3 * 28.97 kg of air/16 kg of CH
4
= 5.432
So, the mass of air required for 200% excess air combustion of fuel will be;
m
a
= 5.432 * 0.1076 = 0.5845 kg
Mass of flue gas that would result from o.1076 kg combustion of CH4 would be,
m
g
= m
CO2
+ m
O2
+ m
N2
+ m
H2O

= 0.2959 + 0.2152 + 1.062 +0.2421 = 1.815 kg (on wet basis)
= 1.5731 kg (on dry basis)
The cycle diagram of the CHP plant employing Gas Turbine is as shown in figure below. Let us
assume ambient conditions for air entering compressor. i.e. Temperature T
1
= 27
o
C = 300 K, specific
heat capacity c
p
= 1.005 kJ/kg.K, Pressure P1 = 1 bar, and k = 1.4. The temperature of air after
compression is found from isentropic compression of an ideal gas,
T
2
= T
1
*(r)
(k-1)/k

Where r = 15.6, is compression ratio assumed for Centaur 40 Gas Turbine.
T
2
= 300*(15.6)
0.286
= 657.68 K


Figure 7: cycle diagram of Gas turbine Cogeneration (open cycle)
Ignoring pressure drop in the combustor, for adiabatic processes P2 = P3 and P4 = P1.

The compressor work required for this compression is,
W
c
= m
a
*c
pa
*(T
2
T
1
) = 0.5845 kg/s*1.005 kJ/kg.K*(657.68 - 657.68)K = 0.21115 MW
The lower heating value (LHV) of the fuel is used in cogeneration applications. With assumption of
high-grade fuel of LFG, LHV of methane is 37.5 MJ/kg. For the flue gas expanding in the turbine let
us assume non-ideal gas conditions: specific heat capacity of the flue gas c
pg
= 1150 J/kg.K and k=
1.33. The temperature of exhaust gas for the selected turbine is 710k. Using these values the
temperature of flue gas at entrance of the gas turbine will be;
T
3
= T
4
*(r)
0.248
= 710*(15.6)
0.248
= 1403.77K

Efficiency of the combustion chamber will be,
cc
= m
g
*c
pg
*(T
3
T
4
)/(m
f
*LHV)
= 0.5845kg/s * 1.150 KJ/kg.K (1403.77 710)K /(0.1076 kg/s * 37500 KJ/kg)
= 0.2338
The gross electrical output of the gas turbine is
W
T
= m
g
*c
pg
*(T
3
T
4
)
= 1.815kg/s*1.15KJ/kg.K*(1403.77 710)K
= 1.4481 MW
The net electrical output of the turbine is
W
Tnet
= W
T
W
c
= 1.4481 - 0.21115 = 1.2369 MW
The overall gas turbine efficiency now becomes,
T
= W
Tnet
/(mf*LHV) = 1.2369*10
6
/(0.1076*37.5*10
6
) = 0.3066 = 30.66%
Gas turbines with heat-recovery steam generators (HRSGs) are commonly used in chemical
process industries (CPI) plant. They can be operated in either the cogeneration mode or the
combined-cycle mode. In the cogeneration mode, steam produced from the HRSG is mainly used for
process applications, whereas in the combined-cycle mode, power is generated via a steam turbine
generator. The HRSG generates steam utilizing the energy in the exhaust from the gas turbine.

As a result in this project it is supposed that there are processing industries like Textile Industry or
other chemical Industries which use the heated water for processing purposes.

The Pinch and approach method of determining the parameters of HRSG is based on the difference
between the gas temperature leaving the evaporator and temperature of saturated steam and the

difference between saturated steam and temperature of entering water respectively. These methods
suggest, for un-fired HRSG, a temperature difference range of 15
o
F 30
o
F i.e. 59
o
C 86
o
C [6].
But the demand of hot water of industries for washing, cleaning and heating services is about 80
o
C.
So let us fix the temperature of heated water at 80
o
C and assume the cold water of 0.5 kg/s enters at
27
o
C. Now the parameters at HRSG become;
Water: m
w
= 0.5 kg/s, T
1
= 27
o
C = 300K, h
1
= h
f@T1
= 113.25kJ/kg
T
2
= 80
o
C = 353 K, let quality (x) = 0.2 for more warm water is required.
h
2
= (h
f
+ x*h
fg)@T2
= 796.67kJ/kg
Exhaust gas: T
in
= 710K, m
g
= 1.815kg/s
The energy required to heat up water to the required temperature is
Q = m
w
*(h
2
h
1
)
= 0.5(kg/s)*(796.67 - 113.25) kJ/kg = 341.71kW
With assumption of 1% loss of heat, temperature of flue gas at exit of HRSG is found from the energy
balance of HRSG;
m
g
*c
pg
(T
in
T
out
)*(h
l
) = m
w
*(h
2
h
1
)
Where hl = 0.99 for 1% loss of heat.
(T
in
T
out
) = 341.71kW/(1.815(kg/s)*1.15(kJ/kg.K)*0.99 = 331.22K
T
out
= 710 - 331.22 = 378.78K = 105.78
o
C
Efficiency of the HRSG now becomes
HRSG
= m
w
*(h
2
h
1
)/( m
g
*c
pg
(T
in
T
out
))
= 341.71kW/(1.815(kg/s)*1.15(kJ/kg.K)* 331.22K)
= 0.4943 = 49.43%
The overall cogeneration plant efficiency is the sum of the two efficiencies.
overall
= 0.3066 + 0.4943 = 0.8009 = 80.09%

For smaller gas Turbines, the cogeneration parameters are electrical conversion 24 % -31%, thermal
conversion 50% and overall conversion efficiency is 74-81 [7].
4. Benefit of the Project
This project benefits all the stake holders involved in the waste collection, transmission and disposal
system. It also gives substantial advantage to the Municipal and nearby hot water demanding
processing industries.

This project creates job opportunities for collection through disposal of the waste. Waste collection
creates job for poor women road sweepers and collectors as is being done by tractor trailer now.
Waste processing before dumping and material recovery also needs labors. Men should be hired for
construction and then operation of the project.

The main advantage is the pollutant gas that is used to emit to the environment becomes a reliable
fuel for power generation. Problems such as odor and risk of fire and explosion from the land fill will
be inhibited. Energy generated by this technology also falls under renewable energy category.

The power generated by this plant can be used by neighboring society or can be added to the grid. If
this project place if far from grid line it is better to be used locally for cost of transmission will be high
compared to the power produced. The project owner will get more revenue from this project for the
project requires small operating and maintenance costs.

The thermal energy of exhaust gas, that used be rejected to the environment, is extracted by water
that is to be used for industrial processing purposes. The money used to expend on purchase of fuel
for evaporating water can be used for other expenses. As the energy of the exhaust gas decreases,
their polluting potential decreases.

In general, waste and then a pollutant mater is used for energy generation. It is smart technology and
environmental friendly. The city, the society, the municipal and processing industries benefit a lot.


5. Conclusion and Recommendation
Conclusion
This initial design of CHP system from the LFG using the Mekelle City Adi Kolomay landfill site gives
a clue as wastes that generate from the community has economical and environmental values if they
are managed in a controlled and studied manner. The economical use of the design is the generation
of electricity and heat power. The electricity generated from this landfill enables to cover a significant
amount of energy demand of the city. And the heat that exhausts from the power producing turbine is
used for process heat activities (with the use of HRSG) needed by the nearby industries or other
bodies that needs it for their various activities.

It keeps the environment by creating a clean and odorless sanitation conditions. As a result, it
improves the health condition of those farmers who do their activities in the nearby areas.

Besides the energy recovery system LFG utilization keeps the surrounding clean, inhibits problems
like emission of methane, possible risk of fire and explosion, odor from the land Fill, creates job
opportunities. Moreover it brings, if the technology is applied, technology transfer to the country.

Recommendation
Even if the study made by Promise consult is to make a standard landfill site, due to financial
shortage that faces the City Administration Municipality Bureau, there is no enough material to make
standard compaction operation. It would be better for the municipality bureau to make financial raising
agreements with NGOs and other governmental bodies that work on environmental issues.
Waste types have to be determined in a detail way that can give better technical information
regarding to their name and energy content. It would be informative if they are not put in group.
There should be integration between the municipality bureau and the issue concerned
departments of Mekelle University. This could help to work on experimental analysis of the
energy content of the landfill site and on the real use of its energy using CHP.
Cost analysis of this project is not done for lack detailed information on equipments needed
and their prices in LFG utilization for power production. So it is difficult to say this project if
profitable without cost analysis as it uses highly processed LFG and the power obtained is
small.
The hot water demand of nearby industries should be identified rather than assumption

6. References
1. Energy technology Bulletin: WTE Technologies
2. Catherine Tatarniuk, the feasibility of waste-to-energy in saskatchewan based on waste
composition and quantity
3. Promise Consult: Consulting architects and Engineers, Final Feasibility and Preliminary Design
report for Mekelle City Integrated Solid Waste Management
4. Horacio Terraza and Hans Willumsen, Guidance Note on Landfill Gas Capture and Utilization
5. Land Fill Gas Utilization technologies, (unknown author, web material)
6. V. Ganapathy, ABCO Industries, Heat recovery Steam generators: Understanding the Basics.
7. UNEP, Thermal Energy Equipment: Cogeneration, www.energyefficiencyasia.org
8. Mr. Mengisteab, Expert at Mekelle Municipal City, Waste Disposal and Management Section
9. SCS Engineers, Design of Land Fill Gas Systems, Part 1.
10. LANDGEM Gas Generation model, www.plexscape.com/services
11. Caterpillar Company, Solar Turbines, Gas turbine Generator systems

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