Research & Development
Anaerobic Bio-digestion
CAE entered the renewable energy sector in 2008 and continues to work on the development of bio-gas generation plants. We develop local technology, products, systems & complete power plants, and our renewable energy projects span a broad scope of development roles – from concept through design & manufacture to plant construction & operation. Using hands-on experience, on-site monitoring and laboratory testing in the evaluation of performance parameters, We adjust and improve operating procedures and plant/equipment design. This includes CAE-developed V12 bio-gas engines specifically designed for these applications and set up with real-time remote control for enhanced preventative maintenance, minimising down-time.
Engine Testing
Between 1993 and 1999, CAE was a centre of excellence in engine and fuel technology at Stellenbosch University. In 1999, it was decided that commercially sustainable entities should be privatised and CAE (then known as Stellenbosch Automotive Engineering) operated as a private company going forward. For 15 years, CAE’s core business and projects were related to engine and fuel technology. In this time, CAE provided engine development work and support services to clients such as Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA), Ford and Mercedes Benz.
Since 2012, CAE has applied its engine and fuel technology knowledge to the renewable energy generation industry. We primarily focuse on the design, manufacture and testing of biogas and CNG fuelled engines, which are used in CHP generator solutions. CAE has also been involved in the development and testing of diesel duel fuel technologies.
Locally Developed Products
CAE's 200-333 kWe CHP generation units ensure reliable renewable energy production, and coolant & exhaust heat recovery (260-566 kWth). We also design and build integrated machine rooms for bio-gas processing, mixing & heating.
We have a holistic approach to renewable energy and waste management, focusing not only on bio-digestion and energy generation using CHP units but on the preceding and subsequent agricultural systems. This approach presents a greater value proposition while resulting in an environmentally friendly solution.
We have developed and manufactured an inclined solid separator, which the reduces the need for large structures upon which the solid separator is installed. Digestate is a valuable resource, which when effectively processed, results in a liquid fertiliser rich in nutrients and microbial activity that can be used as a sustainable fertiliser for crop production and soil regeneration. Extracted solids from the digestate, which are high in fibre, serve as low-cost livestock bedding or can be used for composting.
CAE's inhouse-developed bio-gas flare ensures responsible destruction of excess bio-gas produced in the anaerobic bio-digestion process., while multi-stage combustion minimises NOx, HC and CO emissions. Our bio-gas flare has been evaluated to 2MW thermal destruction conditions.