Sustainable Solutions: Bauer Compressors’ Innovations in Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) and Biogas Compression
As the world shifts toward sustainable energy sources, one resource continues to gain momentum for its efficiency, renewability, and environmental benefits: Renewable Natural Gas (RNG). Derived from organic waste, RNG—also known as biomethane—is a clean-burning alternative to traditional fossil fuels, and it’s increasingly used in transportation, power generation, and heating.
But transforming raw biogas into usable RNG isn’t simple. It requires a complex system of collection, purification, and—critically—compression. That’s where Bauer Compressors shines.
With more than 75 years of engineering experience and a growing footprint in the clean energy sector, Bauer has developed purpose-built systems to help operators capture, clean, compress, and deliver RNG safely and efficiently. From landfills to farms to wastewater treatment facilities, Bauer's advanced compression technology is helping drive the future of green energy.
In this blog, we’ll dive into how RNG works, the role of compression in biogas processing, and how Industrial Air Services, with locations in Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, helps local and regional operators install, maintain, and optimize Bauer RNG systems.
📞 To speak with an RNG compression specialist, call (615) 641-3100 today.
What Is Renewable Natural Gas?
RNG is chemically identical to fossil natural gas but comes from organic sources such as:
Agricultural waste (manure, crop residues)
Landfill gas (decomposing municipal solid waste)
Wastewater treatment plants
Food processing byproducts
These materials naturally produce methane (CH₄) during decomposition. That methane is captured as biogas, then processed to remove:
Moisture
Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
Once purified to pipeline-grade quality (typically >96% methane), the resulting gas is considered RNG and can be:
Injected into the natural gas grid
Compressed into CNG for vehicle fueling
Used for onsite power or heating
Why Compression Is Essential in RNG Production
Before RNG can be stored, transported, or injected into the pipeline, it must be compressed to meet volume and pressure requirements. This process includes:
Post-purification compression for pipeline injection (200–1,200 psi)
Storage compression into high-pressure vessels
Dispensing compression for CNG fueling stations (up to 3,600 psi)
Without robust and reliable compression, RNG cannot be distributed or monetized effectively. Bauer’s systems are built specifically for this stage—handling challenging gas streams with high uptime and efficiency.
Bauer’s Compression Technology for RNG and Biogas
1. Oil-Free Gas Compression
Bauer compressors used in RNG applications are oil-free, preventing contamination of the purified gas and ensuring compliance with gas utility and environmental regulations.
2. High-Pressure Capabilities
Bauer systems can achieve working pressures up to 5,000 psi, making them ideal for:
Pipeline injection
CNG vehicle fueling stations
Storage trailers and gas transport
3. Skid-Mounted, Plug-and-Play Design
Bauer RNG compressors are available in modular skid-mounted units that include:
Multi-stage gas compression
Gas drying and filtration
Control and monitoring systems
Safety valves and gas leak detection
These units are factory-tested, easy to install, and built for harsh outdoor environments.
4. Advanced Safety and Monitoring
Bauer’s control panels feature:
Gas composition monitoring
Overpressure shutdowns
Leak detection alarms
Remote access for diagnostics and data logging
This ensures safe operation in high-risk environments, such as landfills or farms.
5. Custom Configurations for Any Site
From 10 HP units for small farms to 200 HP systems for municipal treatment plants, Bauer can scale its systems to match production volumes and usage goals.
Real-World Example: Landfill RNG Project – Middle Tennessee
A regional landfill partnered with Industrial Air Services and Bauer to convert methane from decomposing waste into a clean, sellable RNG product.
The system included:
Biogas scrubbing and drying
A Bauer oil-free high-pressure compressor
Skid-mounted design for rapid installation
Remote diagnostics for system monitoring
Results:
Captured over 3 million cubic feet of methane per month
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 70%
Sold RNG back to a local utility for vehicle fueling
ROI achieved in just 18 months
📞 Interested in similar results? Call Industrial Air Services at (615) 641-3100 for a consultation.
Why RNG Is a Game-Changer
Reduces emissions by capturing methane—a gas 25x more potent than CO₂
Provides a revenue stream from waste
Supports fleet sustainability goals by fueling CNG trucks and buses
Qualifies for renewable energy credits like RINs and LCFS
Enhances energy independence for farms and municipalities
By using a Bauer compressor system, you can turn what was once a liability—waste gas—into a clean, valuable energy source.
Industrial Air Services: Your Local RNG Compression Partner
As the authorized Bauer distributor in Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga, Industrial Air Services offers full-service support for RNG operators, including:
Site evaluations and feasibility studies
Equipment selection and custom system design
Turnkey installation and commissioning
Routine maintenance and performance checks
Emergency repairs and technical support
We’ve helped clients across Tennessee and the Southeast turn waste into renewable energy—and profits.
📞 For support on your next RNG or biogas project, call (615) 641-3100 today.
Conclusion
Renewable Natural Gas isn’t just a clean energy trend—it’s a practical, profitable solution that’s already making a difference in communities and industries across the country. And when it comes to the critical task of compressing that gas, Bauer Compressors offers unmatched reliability, safety, and efficiency.
This blog is proudly provided by Industrial Air Services, your trusted partner for Bauer RNG and biogas compression systems in Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Whether you’re starting a new RNG project or upgrading an existing one, we’re here to help. Call (615) 641-3100 to get started today.
