Buitink Technology developed a number of concepts to mix and keep (biogas) slurry in motion without the use of electric/mechanical components used in conventional mixing systems.

The goal was to develop a concept that was easy and low-cost in maintenance and not sensitive to failures or breakdowns.

Buitink Technology base the development on air and inflatables.Using this principle only a simple air system is needed, which can be placed outside the installation/ tank (being easily accessible for maintenance and service).

Buitink Technology developed the following concepts:

Concept A

The movement of the slurry in this concept is created by a metal ring filled with inflatable balls or tubes. By filling the tubes with air the ring system is moved upwards; by deflating the system moves down. This creates the motion of the slurry.

Concept B

In this concept the system consists of an inflatable ring-tube in between a fabric with holes is tensioned. Inflating the ring tube with air creates an upward movement of the system. Deflating the system will make it move downwards creating a motion in the slurry.

The advantage of this system is that the size and geometry of the holes can be chosen depending on the viscosity of the slurry.

Concept C

In this case the movement is created by two shells fixed with hinges. The shells consist of a steel frame with an inflatable element that can be inflated with air.

Concept D

In concept D the movement is created by liftbags, which push up a frame with a fabric with holes. By deflating the liftbags, the system goes down again creating movement in the slurry.

The advantage of this system is that the sizes and geometry of the holes can be chosen depending on the viscosity of the slurry.

Concept E

This concept is based on inflatable tubes installed at the bottom of the tank. By inflating the tubes with air and subsequently deflating, a movement of the slurry is created.