Anaerobic Digester Calculator
Size an anaerobic digester based on feedstock volume, retention time, and operating temperature.
Inputs
Results
Digester Volume
125 m³
≈ 4 tanker trucks
Biogas Output
3.67 m³/day
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the daily feedstock volume in m³/day (total organic material entering the digester each day).
- Set the hydraulic retention time in days — 20–30 days is typical for mesophilic operation.
- Choose the operating temperature: ~37°C for mesophilic, ~55°C for thermophilic.
- Review Digester Volume (m³) to size your tank, Biogas Output (m³/day), and Electric Capacity (kW).
- Use the bar chart to compare digester volume, daily biogas, and electricity output side by side.
How the result changes with Feedstock (m³/day)
| Feedstock (m³/day) | Digester Volume | Biogas Output |
|---|---|---|
| 500 | 12,500 m³ | 366.67 m³/day |
| 1,750 | 43,750 m³ | 1,283.33 m³/day |
| 3,250 | 81,250 m³ | 2,383.33 m³/day |
| 4,500 | 112,500 m³ | 3,300 m³/day |
What each input means
- Feedstock (m³/day)
- Daily volume of feedstock entering the digester in cubic meters
- Retention Time (days)
- Hydraulic retention time — how long material stays in the digester (20-30 days typical for mesophilic)
- Operating Temperature (°C)
- Digester temperature: ~37°C for mesophilic, ~55°C for thermophilic operation
How this is calculated
Worked example, using the default values
- Identify Input ParametersFeedstock (m³/day) = 5, Retention Time (days) = 25, Operating Temperature (°C) = 37 = 3 input(s) provided
- Calculate Digester VolumeDigester Volume125 = 125
- Calculate Biogas OutputBiogas Output3.67 = 3.67
- Calculate Electric CapacityElectric Capacity0.32 = 0.32
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