Centrifuges for Algae Harvesting

07 Feb 2022 | Family

As we search for ways to decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, many companies are exploring the process of algae harvesting for biofuels. One of the key pieces of equipment for this is a centrifuge. While algae harvesting has been going on since the 1940’s, there is a renewed push for viability in this area due to a shift in the way industry views its environmental responsibilities. 

Let’s take a look at what algae harvesting is and why centrifuges are vital to the process. 

What is algae harvesting?

With industries looking for new ways to fuel their operations, biofuel is always a hot topic. One of those biofuels is algae, and while it still costs more on average to create this fuel, it’s an ongoing practice that is always evolving. The main focus for proponents of biofuels such as algae is reducing the cost of production and reaching a wider market. 

There are several different ways that algae harvesting takes place. The most common methods are the use of open ponds or algal turf scrubber (ATF) systems. In both cases, a geomembrane material surface is submerged in shallow water to cultivate algae. The algae absorb light and turn it into biomass, which, when harvested, can produce butanal, ethanol and methane, to name just a few. 

How does a centrifuge help the process?

During harvesting, the algae are removed from the water. However, algae still retain a high water content, and this must be removed before any fuel production processes can occur. The best way to do this is by using a centrifuge. 

A centrifuge spins the algae cells toward the centrifuge bowl wall, while water is separated and removed. In purpose-built algae harvesting centrifuges, this process occurs as a continuous operation, meaning water is continuously removed, and the remaining algae cells are also automatically ejected. 

What types of centrifuges are used?

The types of centrifuge used for algae harvesting really depends on the scale of your operation. For smaller operations, you can use small-scale centrifuges designed specifically for algae harvesting. These units are considered to have a low flow rate because the centrifugal forces are usually only between 1,000 – 2,000 g’s. These centrifuges are often used in labs for a much smaller operation.

Interfil offers a mid-range centrifuge (up to 4000Lph) that can process medium flow rates at reasonably high g-forces (3000 g’s). It is a basket type centrifuge with self-cleaning and continuous operation – lightweight and very affordable. 

Alternatively, for large-scale algae harvesting operations, you’ll want to use an industrial centrifuge. These flow-through centrifuges allow for continuous operation, as mentioned above. The high g-force (from 7,000 – 12,000 g’s) makes for extremely efficient processing. Not only is it fast and continuous, but it can isolate even the smallest algae cells for a higher yield. 

The self-cleaning design automatically ejects the biofuel mass, so you don’t need to stop the machine’s operation. In addition, corrosion-resistant stainless steel makes it durable for all types of water. 

Want to know more?

If you’d like to know more about algae centrifuges, we’d love to hear from you. Interfil is an industry leader in oil centrifuges, filtration and filtration media, and we work with a vast range of industries. We’d love to talk about your algae harvesting operation and discuss your requirements. Our experts can recommend and provide practical, cost-effective solutions that will improve the quality and standards of your operation. Contact Interfil today.

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