Design, Fabrication and Performance Test of a Pilot Scale Bioethanol Plant with Fractional Distillation Unit

Abstract

This study presents the design and development of a pilot scale bioethanol plant. The pilot plant was designed to produce an average of 20 liters/day of ethanol from a 60 litre volume of brut/beer from agricultural waste materials. The design of the bioethanol plant covers the stages of concept formation to the production of specification sheets for components parts and equipment, the design consideration for the plant was also included. The pilot plant consists of the fermentation pot, radiator, water pot, ethanol collection pot, fractional distillation unit, boiler, reboiler, condenser, pumps, electrical components, frame and base of the plant and tyres for mobility. The materials used for the development of the plant are mainly stainless steel, mild steel and copper. A performance test was carried out on the bioethanol plant with fractional distillation unit. Agricultural waste material was used for the testing of the plant. The feedstock was processed and allowed to undergo fermentation during which physicochemical parameters like pH, sugar content, alcoholic content, conductivity and specific gravity was carried out for a period of four days. The fermented beer/brut was then distilled to produce an average of 79% alcohol. The equipment was locally fabricated in the National Centre for Energy and Environment, University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State Nigeria using about 85% local content. The pilot plant has proven the availability of local technology for bioethanol production in Nigeria.