Converting a Petrol Generator to Bio-Gas or LPG

A purpose built Bio-Gas Generator, should have high Nickel valve seats, and Safety vacuum vapour lock & tap fitted.

There are Gas conversion Kit available to Convert a Petrol Generator to run on biogas or LPG & NG, it is not that difficult, and can be done by a handy-person, all that is needed is a supply of BioGas or LPG & NG is a good option when put through a standard BBQ Regulator.

The method of Compressing BioGas into LPG cylinders, is a separate procedure covered here in more detail.

Only 3 items are needed to convert a Generator to operate on Gas as follows;

1. Obviously, a supply of Gas/Methane that is compressed into a LPG tank is the best.
2. BBQ LPG tank, are purpose built for Vapour Regulator, that switches on with vacuum line, off intake manifold.
3. Low pressure Diaphragm vapour Regulator switch, to the Carburettor intake flange or plumb directly into air-filter.

So, to start an engine, all you do is open the LPG valve, that will prime the hose to the Vapour regulator, then crank the engine over, this will trigger the regulator to release Methane/LPG into the engine intake, and you are away.

The safety feature is in the fact that if there is no vacuum (caused by a running engine) the engine won't release any gas, so there will be no leakage if all the lines have been tested for leakage under pressure.

Obviously, to operate even a small Generator (Gen-set) or Gas cook-top require a lot more bio-gas, than what would be consumed operating a 4X4WD LPG 3 way fridge/freezer that only requires a very small 1cm flame.

If you intend to use your generator to power you home, it should be noted that these days, a 3.5kW (3'500W) is the ideal size Generator/Alternator for the Highest Residential energy demands.

REMEMBER: Ideally a generator should only be needed/used when Solar energy & battery energy has been depleted, usually this happens between Sunset & Sunrise or during extended bad weather.

Even so, with the uptake of cheaper Battery technology like LiFePo4 & NiFe, that cost approx. $550kW, all daytime & other forms of Excess Energy, that would normally be wasted or sent into the grid for a measly rebate, Would be Better off first been sent into Your battery storage, thus saving YOU paying some 300% more for power consumed after-hours ...when grid connected.