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Methane is recognized as the main ingredient of natural gas, a non-renewable fossil fuel formed from the remains of tiny sea animals and plants that died 200-400 million years ago.
We at Inbye can help you with Free Flow Methane Drainage and Gas Engine Powered Methane Drainage. We design and manufacture many different types of methane gas plants to the requirements of the clients needs, and manage all aspects of the site preparation, installation, commissioning and decommissioning as well as rehabilitation.
The management of coal bed methane gas can yield valuable energy contributions for the potential use of the mine site, or sale of power into electricity grids. The control of coal bed methane gas in longwall mines is critical to facilitate mining without gas levels exceeding safe limits.
There are two main styles of gas drainage plants that Inbye supplies, the "free flow plant", that essentially vents methane to atmosphere, and the "Gas Engine Plant" which burns the methane in a suitably specified gas engine, and uses the power generated to run gaswell extraction fans as well as ancillary services.
Free Flow Methane Drainage
Where there is no opportunity to harness the methane gas for gas engine or pipeline use, we provide economical and reliable free flow systems that incorporate an approved free flow methane stack.
Our technology facilitates the production of free flow methane stacks that have proven to be the most effective method of reducing methane content in rapidly moving longwall faces.
The design has yielded good life expectancy in highly corrosive environments. All equipment is of robust construction and fully galvanized.
Our complete methane gas package includes all pipe-work, isolation and actuator valves, flame arrestors, pressure relief valves, fire suppression, earthing and lightning arrestor.
Gas Engine Powered Methane Drainage
Methane gas from longwall goofs can be successfully used to run internal combustion engines which can in turn power gas extraction fans and auxiliary lighting.
We have developed systems that are able to handle significant quantities of water. The engines are able to run reliably on relatively low concentrations of methane and provide a service life of 10,000 hours before major maintenance.
The methane drainage plant can be connected by radio telemetry to the mine central control room that monitors and records the gas pressure and methane concentration, providing warnings if these exceed preset safety parameters.
We have a proven track record in manufacturing fixed systems and sled mounted units. The fixed systems are set-up for operation on the surface over a protracted period with a moderate amount of surface infrastructure. The Inbye sled mounted units consist of all essential components of the gas engine, fans and monitoring equipment mounted on a trail-able sled for ease of movement between borehole sites.
Methane Plant Site Management Services
Our Site Management Services ensure that the plant remains running and that gas flow is maintained. We follow stringent mine systems and comply with OH&S requirements always seeking to streamline their services on site.
The site management services, service all aspects of the methane drainage surface head including;
Civil Earthworks and Concreting
Our project management and site management of earthworks includes bunding, roads, concrete pads and footings are all managed by Inbye. We also provide truck-tipping bays, hopper dump systems, building protection barriers etc.
Erection of Barriers and Fencing
Because of the nature of the equipment and presence of explosive gases, we supply and erect fencing c/w lockable gates and "Danger" signs on all gas drainage sites.
Erection of Protective Structures
Gas engines and associated electrical equipment are usually given all weather protection in the form of shelters to prevent water ingress and enable ease of maintenance.
Maintenance Of Secure Compound Areas
Our site services ensure the maintenance of compound areas, including care of fencing and barriers, maintenance of lightening conductors, weed control and storm damage repair.
Installation and Commissioning of Methane Stacks and Gas Engines
We offer hassle free project management of the complete installation, operation and monitoring tasks including the organization of contractors - drillers, concreters, electrical and carnage. We comply with all mine site requirements.
In addition we assemble all documentation and records required for the installation and present a documentation report for each borehole project. Initial borehole characteristics and outputs are recorded and the efficiency of the stack monitored during the commissioning period.
Decommissioning Of Methane Drainage Plant
The important tasks of decommissioning gaswell's include:
- Disconnection of power and isolating the gaswell.
- Removal of the methane stack and surface equipment and transport back to Inbye for a full overhaul and report.
- Concrete sealing of the gaswell.
- Excavating and removal of the top two meters of the sealed gaswell.
- Photographic evidence is taken after the completion of the sealing.
- Fill of earthworks and restoration of surface features.
Installation of Concrete Hoppers over Bore Holes
For filling large diameter boreholes, we establish a surface arrangement in which a steel hopper is erected on the surface allowing multiple concrete trucks to pour simultaneously.
Environmental Rehabilitation
We offer site services for the rehabilitation of borehole sites or the protection of existing environmental features from mine disturbance.
Installation and Removal of Gas Pipeline
Our site services include preparation and installation of gas pipeline including pipelines to link adjoining boreholes.
Routine Scheduled Maintenance of Methane Drainage Equipment
We provide work crews that are inducted for the site to facilitate scheduled maintenance services in order to keep the plant inspected and maintained to mine site requirements.
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