Abstract: Lifting device (10) for vertically lifting liquids, where the lifting device (10) comprises: a lifting line arrangement (18) for guiding a liquid from an open lower reservoir (16) to an upper reservoir (14); a lowering line arrangement (20) for guiding the liquid from the upper reservoir (14) to the lower reservoir (16); a pressure converter (12) with an actuating member (36), the pressure converter (12) being configured to convert a liquid pressure in the lowering line arrangement (20) into a liquid pressure in the lifting line arrangement (18) by means of a substantially linear movement of the actuating member (36); and a pump member (38) for pumping the liquid in the lifting line arrangement (18) towards the upper reservoir (14) and/or for pumping the liquid in the lowering line arrangement (20) towards the pressure converter (12).

Abstract: Rotary valve device for sequentially connecting an first line to a plurality of second lines, the rotary valve device comprising: a stationary structure comprising a first port for connection to the first line and at least two second ports for connection to a respective second line and a distribution rotor rotatably arranged within the stationary structure, the distribution rotor comprising at least one rotor opening, wherein the rotary valve device is configured such that the rotor opening sequentially establishes a fluid communication between the first port and the second ports as the distribution rotor rotates.

Abstract: Organic wastes, such as animal manure, are fed into an elongated digester tank at one end thereof in slurry form. The slurry slowly moves to the other end of the tank for subsequent disposal. During the residence time in the tank decomposition of the waste occurs yielding methane gas and carbon dioxide. A cover over the digester collects the gas generated. A heat exchange arrangement causes transverse stirring of the slurry as it passes through the tank enhancing the decomposition process. Scum suppressors on the surface of the slurry prevent interference with the formation and release of the methane gas. The settling of solids is controlled by the use of gas jets disposed along the bottom of the tank.