MONITORING OF WASTE OR VENTED GASES

Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61/258,710 entitled "Integrated System for the Extraction, Incineration and Monitoring of Methane Gas Produced in a Mining Operation," filed November 6, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Background

[0002] The embodiments described herein are related generally to the extraction, incineration and monitoring of a waste or vented gas. More specifically the embodiments described herein relate to a mobile, integrated, self-powered system for extraction, incineration and monitoring of methane gas extracted from gob wells in a mining operation.

[0003] For some sub-surface or underground mines from which coal and other hard rock, metal and non-metal minerals such as, for example, trona, are extracted, the specific characteristics of the geological formation of the deposit and surrounding strata may result in the coexistence of methane gas (also referred to as mine methane). During the underground mineral extraction processes, in which a layer of the target coal and minerals is removed, a rubbelized (or fractured) zone forms, filling the void of the post mining area of the worked-out section of the mine. This rubbelized zone is created by the collapse and subsidence of the over-burdened strata surrounding the worked-out section of the mine, and is referred to as gob or goaf (also known as gob areas or goaf areas). These gob areas become temporary underground reservoirs that eventually overflow and act as conduits through which the mine methane gas flows into the working areas of the mine.

[0004] Various regions (e.g., countries and states) have differing requirements related to acceptable or allowable limits of methane concentration in the working areas and/or sealed sections of the mine. Accordingly, underground mines employ ventilation systems to dilute methane to a safe concentration for the mine environment. Additionally, some known mines, particularly those deemed to have high levels of flammable gas therein (i.e., high levels or concentrations of methane gas), employ post-mining degasification measures known as gob wells to remove mine methane gas from the gob to prevent it from flowing into the working areas and exceeding allowable safe concentration limits. [0005] Gob wells are wells or holes drilled or bored from the mine surface in advance of mining operations. The wells typically terminate in the rock strata above the mineral seam and are not usually operational prior to subsidence (i.e., because the gob wells produce little to no methane prior to subsidence). After mining operations pass the well, the strata above the mined area collapses resulting in a gob within which methane gas is collected. An extraction device is connected to the well, which is used to extract the methane released from the gob. Methane from ventilation or gob wells is typically vented from the mine to maintain a safe working environment for the miners.

[0006] In addition to being a serious safety hazard within the mine, methane and other constituents within the vented gas can be potent greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. For example, methane gas has a Global Warming Potential ("GWP") equivalent to 21 times that of carbon dioxide. The GWP is an estimation of how much a gas is expected to contribute to global warming, when compared to the harmful effects of an equivalent measure of carbon dioxide over the same period. More specifically, the GWP is an index representing the combined effect of the differing times greenhouse gases remain in the atmosphere and their relative effectiveness in absorbing outgoing infrared radiation. Consequently, when removing gases (e.g., methane, hydrocarbons and/or volatile organic compounds) from a mine, it is undesirable to release the gases into the atmosphere. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, if 1 unit of methane were combusted or oxidized, it would create combustion products including 2.75 units of carbon dioxide; however because methane has a much higher GWP, a net benefit to the environment equivalent to 18.25 units of carbon dioxide is realized. Accordingly, combusting the methane extracted from a mine can lower the overall GWP of a mining operation. Similarly stated, combusting the extracted methane can result in a reduction of greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions.

[0007] In some regions, such reduction in GHG emissions can be encouraged and/or mandated by regulations. Thus, in some regions, it can be desirable not only to combust the extracted gas to reduce the GHG emissions, but also measure the reduction of GHG emissions to ensure compliance with such regulations. Known systems for gas extraction, however, have primarily been used to extract and vent the gas for operational and safety purposes, and have not included systems for measuring the reduction in GHG emissions to meet such regulatory guide lines.

[0008] Additionally, in some regions, depending on the state of regulation, this reduction in global warming potential (or GHG emissions) can be used generate environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits). These credits can be sold to other entities to offset their own industrial pollution or the GWP of carbon emissions resulting from their own operations. However, there are only a few countries that actively use gob wells to degas mine methane gas, most notably the United States, which to date have not regulated greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, the technology deployed to date in the market place has primarily been used to extract and vent the gas for operational and safety purposes. The emerging market for environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits) and the potential for greenhouse gas regulations has created the potential demand for the combustion of the previously vented mine methane gas from the gob.

[0009] Although methane extraction and combustion systems for use in mining operations are known, such known systems suffer several disadvantages. For example, known methane extraction and combustion systems are typically fixed- location or fixed-position systems. Such known systems are difficult to assemble, disassemble, and re-assemble, resulting in systems that are not easily or readily mobile. The non-mobile nature of such systems is undesirable in many mining environments, such as, for example, mining environments where gob wells have short operational lives (often less than nine months) and where new gob wells must be frequently drilled. Furthermore, the lack of mobility of known methane extraction and combustion systems can compel construction of multiple systems for each of a group of gob wells, which can add considerable cost to the mining operation.

[0010] Additionally, known methane extraction and combustion systems require an external power source to remove the methane, maintain the ignition of the combustion device and/or control the overall operation. For example, some known systems include extraction pumps that extract methane from gob wells and route the methane via a piping system to a centrally located methane incinerator or flare. Such extraction pumps can be powered by, for example, electrical power provided by a grid or a generator co-located with the system (e.g., a generator system powered by a diesel engine). Providing a constant, reliable power source to such systems can be difficult in the case of remotely located systems, because access to a grid may not be available or is expensive to supply and it can be difficult to provide an adequate source of fuel to such systems.

[0011] Furthermore, known methane extraction and combustion systems typically fail to accurately measure the amount of methane extracted and combusted to calculate the reduction in GHG emissions and/or to generate environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits). Regulations related to ensuring that the installation is in compliance with regulatory guidelines and/or the generation and sales of environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits) may require that the amount of methane extracted, combusted, and/or the resultant emissions of the combusted methane be accurately measured, and some instances certified by an accredited third party auditor. Because known systems fail to accurately measure and monitor the specific amount of methane gas that is actually destroyed, they are incapable of providing such certified measurements to the specifications and parameters necessary to ensure regulatory compliance and/or to generate environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits). Thus, a need exists for improved, mobile systems that integrate components for off-grid extraction, combustion, measurement and monitoring of mine methane gas.

Summary

[0012] Systems and methods for the extraction, incineration and monitoring of methane gas extracted from a mine are described herein. In some embodiments, a system includes a transportation platform, a fluid machine coupled to the transportation platform, an incinerator, a vent assembly and a flow interface assembly. The fluid machine is configured to be coupled to a gas well, such as, for example, a gob well, and to produce a gas flow from the gas well. The incinerator is configured to be fluidically coupled to the fluid machine, and is configured to combust at least a portion of the gas flow from the gas well. The vent assembly is configured to be fluidically coupled to the fluid machine. The flow interface assembly is coupled to the transportation platform and is configured to selectively place the fluid machine in fluid communication with any one of the incinerator and the vent assembly.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates combustion of methane and the Global Warming Potential benefit derived from this combustion.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a mining environment including a mobile methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a mining environment including a methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment. [0017] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a system block diagram of a portion of the gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system shown in FIG. 7.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a control system of the gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system shown in FIG. 7.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a monitoring and measurement system of the gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system shown in FIG. 7.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a communications system of the gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system shown in FIG. 7.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a power transmission system of the gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system shown in FIG. 7.

[0025] FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 17 is a side view of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system in a first configuration, according to an embodiment. [0030] FIG. 18 is a side view of the gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system shown in FIG. 17, in a second configuration.

[0031] FIGS. 19 and 20 are perspective views of the gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system shown in FIG. 17, in the second configuration.

Detailed Description

[0032] The embodiments described herein are capable of extracting methane from a mining environment, incinerating (or combusting) the methane, and monitoring the extraction, combustion, and resultant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. In some embodiments, the system can generate a report indicating compliance with regulations limiting greenhouse gas emissions. In other embodiments, the system can generate environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits) based on the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the combustion of methane as compared to the venting of the raw methane extracted from the mining environment. Additionally, one or more embodiments are also mobile and/or portable such that a methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system can be moved or transported to different locations (e.g., different gas wells) in a mining environment. Furthermore, one or more embodiments are capable of operating independently from an external power source (e.g., an electric power grid). Said another way, in some embodiments, the system is configured to power one or more extraction pumps with a portion of the gas extracted from a mining environment (which can include methane). In some embodiments, the disclosed systems, apparatus, and/or methods can produce self-sustaining, integrated, self-contained, and/or mobile devices suitable for use for destruction of flammable gasses being emitted to the atmosphere from underground void spaces such as operating mines, disused sections of worked out mines and sealed sections of mines, abandoned mines where gas is being desorbed from coal seams, sandstone or other porous geological strata.

[0033] In some embodiments, any of the systems described herein can be coupled to a gas well (e.g., a gob well or other extraction well associated with a mining operation, a landfill vent, a gas well associated with gas exploration or the like) by a gas well adapter that includes a frame, an inlet member, an outlet member and a valve. The inlet and outlet members are each coupled to the frame, which can be, for example, a portable skid. The inlet member is configured to be coupled to a gas well. The outlet member is configured to be coupled to a receiver configured to receive a gas flow from the gas well. The receiver can be, for example, any suitable reservoir, fluid machine or the like. The valve is configured to selectively place the inlet member in fluid communication with the outlet member. The outlet member is electrically isolated from the inlet member. In this manner, any electrical charge that may be generated "upstream" of the outlet member (e.g., by a lightening strike, by a spark generated by an upstream portion of the system or the like) will be impeded from being conveyed into the gas well. In some embodiments, the gas well adapter can include an electrical isolation member configured to electrically isolate the inlet member and the outlet member.

[0034] In some embodiments, a system includes a transportation platform, a fluid machine coupled to the transportation platform, an incinerator, a vent assembly and a flow interface assembly. The fluid machine is configured to be coupled to a gas well (e.g., a gob well or other extraction well associated with a mining operation, a landfill vent, a gas well associated with gas exploration or the like), and to produce a gas flow from the gas well. The incinerator is configured to be fluidically coupled to the fluid machine, and is configured to combust at least a portion of the gas flow from the gas well. The vent assembly is also configured to be fluidically coupled to the fluid machine. The flow interface assembly is coupled to the transportation platform and is configured to selectively place the fluid machine in fluid communication with any one of the incinerator and the vent assembly. In some embodiments, the vent assembly is spaced apart from and/or is separate from the incinerator. In this manner, the portion of the gas flow that is conveyed through the vent assembly does not also flow through the incinerator, and is therefore not considered in the determination of the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

[0035] In some embodiments, a system can be configured to be moved between a first (or transportation) configuration and a second (or operational) configuration, thereby allowing the system to be moved from one location to the next. In some embodiments, such systems can include a transportation platform, a fluid machine, an incinerator and a flow interface assembly. The fluid machine is coupled to the transportation platform. The fluid machine, which can be a pump, a blower or the like, is configured to be coupled to a gas well and to produce a gas flow from the gas well. The incinerator is movably coupled to the transportation platform between a first position and a second position. A vertical height of the incinerator and the transportation platform is within (i.e., is compliant with) a standard for on-road transportation when the incinerator is in the first position. The incinerator is configured to be fluidically coupled to the fluid machine when the incinerator is in the second position. The incinerator configured to combust at least a portion of the gas flow when the incinerator is in the second position. The flow interface assembly is coupled to the transportation platform, and is configured to selectively place the fluid machine in fluid communication with any one of the incinerator and a vent assembly.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a mining environment M including a methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system 100, according to an embodiment. Mining environment M includes the ground surface SU, the strata ST, the gob (indicated as GOB), a series of gob wells GW, a mined area MA, and an unmined area UM. The strata ST is located above mined area MA. The gob wells GW are drilled into strata ST, and are configured to convey methane from the gob.

[0037] The system 100 is a methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system described in more detail herein, which can be moved and/or transported along surface SU to be operably coupled to any of the gob wells GW. As illustrated in FIG. 2, although the system 100 is shown as being located at one gob well GW, the system 100 can be moved from any gob well GW to one or more of the other gob wells GW to extract, incinerate and monitor methane extraction and incineration at one or more of the gob wells GW. Thus, the system 100 can be mobile among gob wells in mining environment 100. For example, in some embodiments, all components of the system 100 can be disposed on a portable structure, such as, for example, a transportation platform and/or a trailer, as described in more detail herein. In other embodiments, a portion of the system 100 can be mounted on a portable structure (e.g., a skid configured to be moved by a fork lift). In other words, system 100 can include one or more structures or portions (e.g., equipment) that are collectively or independently mobile. This arrangement facilitates the movement of system 100 between the gob wells GW, thereby allowing a single system 100 to be used to extract methane from each gob well as the mined area MA advances. For example, in some embodiments, the system 100 can reside at and/or remain operational to extract methane from a gob well GW for a period of anywhere from 3 months to 10 years. In some embodiments the system 100 can remain coupled to a particular gob well for less than 12 months.

[0038] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a mining environment including a methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system, according to an embodiment. The mining environment of FIG. 3 includes a methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system labeled "System," a series of gob wells, a gob region, caved in sections of a mine, a rock strata and a series of coal seams. FIG. 3 also illustrates the surface landscape above the mining area. The methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system can be moved along the surface to be operatively coupled to the various gob wells of the mining environment to extract and incinerate methane, as described herein. [0039] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system 200, according to an embodiment. System 200 includes a gas extraction pump unit 231, a gas incinerator 253 (also referred to as a combustor, burner, and/or flare), measuring and monitoring equipment 291, a communication system 292, a data storage and reporting system 295, and a control system 297. The gas extraction pump 231 is coupled to a gas well on its inlet side and the gas incinerator on its outlet side, and is configured to produce a gas flow from the gas well. The gas extraction pump 231 can be any fluid machine suitable for producing a pressurized fluid and/or fluid flow, such as, for example, a blower, a pump or the like. The gas extraction pump 231 is operatively coupled to and driven by a power source 232. The power source 232 can be any suitable power source for providing power to operate the gas extraction pump 231 , provide power to the measuring and monitoring equipment, the communication system, and/or any other power consuming devices within the system 200. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the power source can be a power source that coverts a portion of the extracted gas (which can include, for example, methane or other flammable constituents) into power. In this manner, system 200 can be operated independently from an external power source, such as, for example, an electrical power grid. In some embodiments, for example, the power source can be an internal combustion engine configured to combust methane to produce power. One example of such an engine is described in U.S. Patent No. 6,578,559, entitled "Methane Gas Control System," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Another example of such an engine is described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0011248, entitled "System and Method for Control of a Gas," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In yet other embodiments, the power source can be a methane-powered turbine engine. In still other embodiments, the power source can be a methane gas fuel cell.

[0040] In use, waste and/or vented gas can be extracted from the gas well by the gas pump 231. A first portion of the extracted gas can be conveyed to the power source 232 as fuel for the power source 232, and a second portion of the extracted gas can be conveyed to the gas incinerator 253 to be incinerated to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the extraction process. Additionally, under certain conditions, a portion of the extracted gas can be vented to atmosphere via a flow path that excludes the gas incinerator 253. In this manner, the portion of the extracted gas that is vented is therefore not considered in any determination of the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. A portion of the extracted gas can be vented to atmosphere, for example, during priming or startup of system 200 until, for example, a sufficient flow of gas is achieved from the gas well to support incineration of the gas and/or operation of the power source. [0041] The measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can continuously monitor and measure parameters of system 200 to generate an output associated with a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the incineration of the extracted gas. In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can generate a report associated with the compliance of the site and/or facility with an applicable regulation (e.g., a regulation limiting GHG emissions). In other embodiments, for example, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can generate environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits), which can be traded on a suitable exchange, based on the quantity of gas extracted and oxidized by the gas incinerator. For example, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can measure the combusted gas temperature, pressure, volumetric flow, and concentration of constituents within the gas (e.g., methane) and/or the like. In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can measure the mass of certain constituents within the gas (e.g., methane) delivered to the gas incinerator and the efficacy and/or efficiency of combustion of such constituents by the gas incinerator. In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can monitor and/or measure other system and/or operational parameters.

[0042] Accordingly, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 is operatively coupled to many of the other elements or components of system 200: the gas extraction pump 231; the gas incinerator 253; gas lines connecting the gas extraction pump 231 to the gas well GW, and/or one or more vents; the control system 297 and the communication system 292. For example, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can be coupled to sensors that measure pressure, temperature, flow-rate, and/or gas concentration at various locations within the gas lines of system 200 to determine the amount of gas (e.g., methane, volatile organic compounds, GHG or the like) processed (e.g., extracted and/or incinerated) by system 200. The measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can be coupled to infrared sensors, tunable diode laser sensors, optical sensors, thermal conductivity sensors, gas density sensors, gas chromatography sensors, and/or other sensors within the gas lines, the gas incinerator 253 and/or any other portion of the system 200 to determine, for example, the concentration of constituents (e.g., methane) in the gas flow. The measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can also be coupled to sensors within and/or adjacent the gas incinerator to determine the combustion characteristics within the gas incinerator 253. Additionally, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can be coupled to the gas extraction pump 231 to determine, for example, the efficiency of gas extraction pump.

[0043] The measuring and monitoring equipment 291, and any of the components and/or systems described herein having similar functionality (e.g., the control assembly 590 described below), can include commercially available components used in the natural gas production, mining and/or emissions measurement industries to monitor gas production. In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can include a programmable logic controller ("PLC") and/or another processor. In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring system can be self-calibrating. In this manner, the measurement of the gas emissions, and therefore, the amount of gas incinerated can be accurately measured by taking into account variables such as, for example, changing ambient conditions, changing constituency of the extracted gas and/or the like.

[0044] The measuring and monitoring equipment 291 is operatively coupled to the communication system 292 such that data or information generated by the measuring and monitoring equipment can be transmitted to the data storage and reporting system 295 and/or any other system configured to receive such information. In some embodiments, the data or information can be stored locally (e.g., at system 200). The communication system 292, and any of the components and/or systems described herein having similar functionality (e.g., the control assembly 590 described below), can include commercially available components to perform the functions described herein. For example, the communication system 292 can include a wireless interface such as microwave, satellite, cellular, industrial/scientific/medical ("ISM") band, licensed band, and/or other radio devices. Alternatively (or complimentarily), the communication system can include a wired interface such as an Ethernet local area network ("LAN") or wide area network ("WAN").

[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the data storage and reporting system 295 can include an interface complimentary to the interface of the communication system 292 such that the data storage and reporting system can receive data or information (e.g., data and information signals) produced by the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 and transmitted via the communication system 292. In some embodiments, intermediate communication systems and/or communications networks can exist between the communication system 292 and the data storage and reporting system 295. For example, the communication system and/or any intermediate communication systems can include a cellular interface to a wireless wide area network ("WW AN") that is operatively coupled to the Internet, and the data storage and reporting system can be operatively coupled to an Ethernet LAN including a gateway to a fiber-optic connection operatively coupled to the Internet. Accordingly, the communication system can be in communication with the data storage and reporting system via the WW AN, Internet, fiber-optic connection, and Ethernet LAN. [0046] Furthermore, the communication system 292 can receive control and/or configuration information (e.g., control and/or configuration signals) from the control system 297, which can be (but is not necessarily) remotely located from the system 200. For example, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can produce and/or convey signals to control gas valves, flame ignition modules, shutdown and/or startup of gas extraction pump, data reporting schedules, and/or other operational parameters or components of system 200, in response to information received from the control system via the communications system. Embodiments including such control configurations and executing such control algorithms are further described herein (see e.g., the system 500 shown and described below). Similarly, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can produce and/or convey signals providing feedback on the operation of the system 200 to the control system 297 via the communications system 292. For example, in some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can receive a control signal (or instruction) via the communication system 292 related to the operation of the gas extraction pump 231 and can terminate the operation of the gas extraction pump 231 in response to that control signal. In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can receive a control signal (or instruction) via the communication system related to closing a valve in system 200. For example, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can close a valve to cease the venting of the extracted gas to the atmosphere or to begin delivery of the extracted gas to the gas incinerator 253.

[0047] The data storage and reporting system 295 can receive, store, make available, and/or report data or information generated by the measuring and monitoring equipment 291. For example, the data storage and reporting system 295 can include a database to store information related to performance (e.g., efficiency, a report associated with regulatory compliance, the amount of environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits) generated) of the system 200. The data storage and reporting system 295 can report such information via, for example, electronic mail, short message service ("SMS") messages, Really Simple Syndication ("RSS") or some other syndication feed, and/or other reporting channels. In some embodiments, the data storage and reporting system can place an automated telephone call using and interactive voice response ("IVR") to provide reports related to system 200.

[0048] The data storage and reporting system 295 can make data or information available via a web server and/or an application programming interface ("API"). For example, data and information related to system 200 and stored at the data storage and reporting system 295 can be accessible via a website providing charts and/or other presentation of that data. Additionally, the data storage and reporting system can provide an API that can provide access to the data and information stored at the data storage and reporting system.

[0049] In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291, and any similar system or components described herein (e.g., the control assembly 590), can provide batch or periodic updates to the data storage and reporting system 295 via the communications system 292. For example, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can provide daily data or information dumps to the data storage and reporting system 295. In some embodiments, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can provide near or substantially real-time updates to the data storage and reporting system 295. For example, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can provide data or information dumps to the data storage and reporting system 295 at substantially the same time as the data or information is generated at the measuring and monitoring equipment 291. In some embodiments, some data and/or information is provided to the data storage and reporting system 295 in batch updates and other data and/or information is provided to the data storage and reporting system 295 in near real-time. For example, data related to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, compliance with regulations associated with gas emissions and/or the number of environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits) generated by system 200 can be provided in daily batch updates, and alarm information (e.g., the flame in the gas incinerator has failed) can be provided in near real-time.

[0050] In some embodiments, data and/or information can be encrypted or otherwise securely stored at the data storage and reporting system 295. For example, data received at the data storage and reporting system 295 can be encrypted at the data storage and reporting system. In some embodiments, the communication system or the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 can encrypt data before those data are sent to the data storage and reporting system. In some embodiments, the communication system can use secure or encrypted channels such as Secure Sockets Layer ("SSL") or Secure Shell ("SSH") tunnels to send and receive data.

[0051] The data storage and reporting system 295, and any of the components and/or systems described herein having similar functionality, can include various commercially available components including data reporting and warehousing solutions marketed to the mining industry.

[0052] The control system 297 is configured to control the performance and operation of various components of system 200. For example, the control system 297 can control the performance of the gas extraction pump 231, the gas incinerator 253, and/or the measuring and monitoring equipment 291. As discussed above, the control system can communicate with the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 to control various components of system 200. In some embodiments, system 200 can include a control module (not shown) separate from the measuring and monitoring equipment 291 configured to receive control signals via the communication system 292 from the control system 297 to implement control of system 200. In other words, the control system can be operatively coupled to components of system 200 via the communication system 292, the measuring and monitoring equipment 291, and/or a control module.

[0053] More specifically, for example, the control system 297 can control the following parameters of system 200: the start-up and stoppage of the gas extraction pump 231, the speed of gas extraction pump (e.g., increasing or decreasing the speed in response to certain conditions), the amount of extracted gas supplied to the power source 232 (e.g., the air to fuel ratio of the gas supplied to the engine), the start-up and stoppage of the gas incinerator 253, the burn profile of the gas incinerator 253, and/or other operational parameters of other components of system 200. Thus, the control system 297 can coordinate and/or integrate operation of the components of system 200. Furthermore, the control system 297 can provide calibration and adjustment of the measuring and monitoring system 291 and/or other components of system 200. The control system 297 can include various commercially available control systems.

[0054] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system 300, according to an embodiment. System 300 includes a gas well delivery pipe 1, a starter fuel supply 2, an engine (or power source) 3, a primary fuel line 4, a gas suction pipe 5, a fluid machine (or pump) 6, a mechanical coupling 7, a vent 8, a flow interface control 9, and incinerator delivery line 10, a control and monitoring system 11, an incinerator 12, and a gas control 13. Each of these components is discussed in detail below.

[0055] The gas well delivery pipe 1 can be any suitable pipe or borehole that can be placed in fluid communication with a source of gas (e.g., the gob or other extraction well associated with a mining operation, a landfill vent, a gas well associated with gas exploration or the like). In use, the fluid machine 6 removes or extracts gas from the gas well via the gas well delivery pipe 1. As illustrated in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the gas well delivery pipe 1 can include a valve configured to fluidically isolate the gas well and the fluid machine 6. Although the gas well delivery pipe 1 is shown as being fluidically coupled to the fluid machine 6 via the gas suction pipe 5, in other embodiments, the gas well delivery pipe 1 can be directly coupled or connected to the fluid machine 6. In yet other embodiments, as described in more detail herein, the fluid machine 6 can be coupled to the gas well delivery pipe 1 via a gas well adapter (see e.g., the gas well adapter 510) that can include safety valves, a flame arrestor, a water (or condensation) trap element and/or an electrical isolation member. The inclusion of such components within a gas well adapter can depend on the specific characteristics of and/or regulations associated with the environment in which the system 300 is being used.

[0056] The fluid machine 6 extracts gas from the gas well via the gas well delivery pipe 1 and the gas suction pipe 5. As shown in FIG. 5, the fluid machine 6 outputs the extracted gas at an outlet of the fluid machine 6. Thus, the fluid machine 6 produces a flow of gas from the gas well and/or produces a pressurized gas at its outlet.

[0057] The fluid machine 6, and any of the fluid machines described herein (see e.g., fluid machine 531), can be any suitable rotary pump, compressor and/or blower designed to produce a vacuum on the gas suction pipe 5 at the inlet of fluid machine 6, and to deliver gas at an outlet of fluid machine 6. The fluid machine 6 can be one of many types or designs based on the desired gas flow, characteristics of the gas, and may be of any suitable pump design, such as liquid ring pump, centrifugal fan, screw compressor, reciprocating compressor, a roots type positive displacement lobed pump, and/or any other pump or compressor. In some embodiments, the fluid machine 6 can include a blower to produce a vacuum at the head of the fluid machine 6. In some embodiments, the fluid machine 6 can be configured to produce a flow rate of between 300 and 3000 CFM of gas extracted from the gas well. In some embodiments, the fluid machine 6 can be one of various commercially available gas extraction pumps used to extract gas from underground mining cavities and/or landfills.

[0058] The fluid machine is driven by the power source 3. More particularly, the power source 3 is operatively coupled to the fluid machine 6 via a mechanical coupling 7. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the power source 3 and the fluid machine 6 can be collocated or integrated within a single assembly. In some embodiments, the fluid machine 6 and the power source 3 can be an integrated unit, such as, for example, the any of the systems produced by KSD Enterprises, which are described in U.S. Patent No. 6,578,559, entitled "Methane Gas Control System," and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0011248, entitled "System and Method for Control of a Gas," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, the assembly including the power source 3 and the fluid machine 6 can be mounted on a wheeled chassis and/or other mobile structure (e.g., a pallet or skid configured to be manipulated via a fork lift or mobile crane). In yet other embodiments, the control and monitoring system 11 and/or the incinerator 12 can also be integrated within a single assembly that includes the power source 3 and the fluid machine 6. Embodiments showing such arrangements are described below (see e.g., system 500 and system 600, described below). [0059] As described above with respect to the system 200, the power source 3 can be a spark ignition reciprocating gas fuelled engine that is configured to produce power from variable concentration and/or low quality gaseous fuels such extracted methane and other hydrocarbons and air. In some embodiments, the power source 3 can produce power using multiple sources and/or types of fuel. For example, in some embodiments, the power source 3 can operate using propane, methane and/or a mixture of the two. Thus, as shown in FIG. 5, the power source 3 can operate using the starter fuel supply 2 (which can include a first source of fuel) during certain periods of system operation and the extracted methane during other periods of system operation.

[0060] The starter fuel supply 2 can be, for example, a propane tank, any suitable liquefied petroleum gas ("LPG") tank or other such piped or bottled fuel configured to provide an alternative fuel source for the power source 3. In this manner, the starter fuel supply 2 can provide operational fuel to power source 3 during system "start up" (e.g., during the initial extraction of gas from the gas well). Said another way, the starter fuel supply 2 can provide fuel to the power source 3 to allow the power source 3 to drive the fluid machine 6 to draw gas from the gas well prior to the time period during which the extracted gas flow is sufficient to operate the power source 3. After system 300 begins to draw a sufficient quantity or flow of gas from the gas well, a portion of the extracted gas can be conveyed to the power source 3 (via the primary fuel line 4) to provide fuel for the power source 3. Similarly stated, after gas delivered to the power source 3 via primary fuel line 4 has reached a sufficient quality and/or flow to sustain operation of power source 3, the gas via primary fuel line 4 can be conveyed to the power source 3 and starter fuel supply 2 can be switched off.

[0061] In some embodiments, the starter fuel supply 2 can be methane or other gas extracted from the gas well. Thus, after the extracted gas delivered via the primary fuel line 4 is of sufficient quality and/or flow to operate the power source 3, some of the gas extracted from the gas well can be provided to starter fuel supply 2 to recharge or refill a receiver containing the starter fuel 2. Thus, starter fuel supply 2 can be replenished by the gas extracted from the gas well by system 300. In this manner, the power source 3 and/or the system 300 can be repeatedly shut down and restarted without the need to provide fuel for the starter fuel supply 2 from an external source (e.g., a gas pipeline, an external refueling operation or the like).

[0062] The extracted gas can be delivered from the outlet of the fluid machine 6 to the vent 8, to the incinerator 12 and/or to the power source 3. In particular, the primary fuel line 4 is operatively coupled to the power source 3 and the output of fluid machine 6. Thus, at least a portion of the extracted gas (e.g., the flammable methane) can be conveyed from the outlet of fluid machine 6 to power source 3 via the primary fuel line 4. As described above, the power source 3 can use the extracted gas delivered via primary fuel line 4 as operational fuel. In some embodiments, the amount (e.g., the total mass or volumetric flow rate) of extracted gas provided to power source 3 via primary fuel line 4 and/or the byproducts of the combustion products produced by the power source 3 can be measured by, for example, control and monitoring system 11. In this manner, an indication of the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, including a indication of the compliance with applicable regulations (and/or any environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits) resulting therefrom) can be generated based, at least in part on, the amount of methane (or other hydrocarbon) gas combusted within power source 3.

[0063] Additionally, at least a portion of the extracted gas can be delivered to the incinerator 12 and/or the vent 8 via the flow interface control 9. More particularly, the flow interface control 9 can include a valve to selectively control the amount of extracted gas that is delivered to the incinerator 12 and the vent 8. Thus, when the valve of the flow interface control 9 is closed, none of the extracted gas is delivered to the vent 8, and the remainder of the extracted gas (i.e., the portion not conveyed to the power source 3) is delivered to the incinerator delivery line 10. When the valve of the flow interface control 9 is fully opened, none of the extracted gas is delivered to the incinerator delivery 12, and the remainder of the extracted gas (i.e., the portion not conveyed to the power source 3) is delivered to the vent 8. When the valve of the flow interface control 9 is partially opened, a first portion of the remainder of extracted gas is delivered to the incinerator delivery 12, and a second portion of the remainder of the extracted gas is delivered to the vent 8.

[0064] The flow interface control 9 can be controlled via the control and monitoring system 11, and can control, direct and/or divert gas to the vent 8, the primary fuel line 4 and/or the incinerator delivery line 10, as described above. The flow interface control 9 can include, for example, any suitable mechanical, diaphragm, pneumatic, electro-hydraulic, electrical control, and/or relief valves. In some embodiments, the flow interface control 9 can include one or more flame arresters, secondary compressors, flow devices or the like. Although shown as including a single control valve, in other embodiments, the flow interface control 9 can include any number of valves and/or feedback mechanisms.

[0065] Thus, the flow interface control 9 and the control and monitoring system 11 can collectively function to ensure that the appropriate amount of extracted gas is supplied to the power source 3, the incinerator 12 and the vent 8. For example, during periods of system startup, during incinerator 12 shutdown, and/or at certain other times, a portion of the gas extracted from a gas well can be released directly to the atmosphere through vent 8. Said another way, the flow interface control 9 and/or the gas control valve 13 can be actuated or adjusted to ensure than gas does not vent through incinerator 12, but rather vents through the vent 8, which is separate from the incinerator 12. The extracted gas can thus be vented to atmosphere via vent 8 when conditions are not suitable for combustion within the incinerator 12. For example, during startup phases, the fluid machine 6 may produce an insufficient volume and/or gas pressure for operation of incinerator 12. Additionally, during start-up phases, the concentration of combustible methane (or other hydrocarbons) within the extracted gas may be below a predetermined threshold for the desired operation of the incinerator 12. By releasing the extracted gas directly to the atmosphere via the vent 8 rather than via the incinerator 12, the control and monitoring system 11 can account for the portion extracted gas that is not oxidized to ensure accuracy of any determination of the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions produced by the system 300. In some embodiments, this arrangement allows the system 300 to account for such venting and ensure that the accuracy of the information associated with greenhouse gas emissions (and any regulatory compliance related thereto) and/or environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits) generated is within the guidelines set forth by the regulatory agencies associated with the regulations and/or the certifying agencies associated with the environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits). In addition to ensuring the integrity of the calculations associated with the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, venting a portion of the extracted gas via a separate flow path can abate certain safety issues. The safety hazards associated with venting through the incinerator 12 can be particularly acute in a remote application without an operator present at the site of system 300. Furthermore, in some regions venting through incinerator 12 can be prohibited.

[0066] The incinerator 12 receives the extracted gas flow via the incinerator delivery line 10. In some embodiments, incinerator delivery line 10 can include a secondary compressor to boost the gas pressure for delivery to the incinerator 12. For example, if fluid machine 6 does not produce a gas flow at a sufficient pressure for safe operation of incinerator 12, or if pressure losses resulting from flow through the incinerator delivery line 10 and/or other plumbing excessively reduce the gas pressure within incinerator delivery line 10, the incinerator delivery line 10 can include a secondary compressor. In some embodiments, a secondary compressor can be included in incinerator delivery line 10 and can be controlled by control and monitoring system 11. For example, a secondary compressor can be activated if gas pressure within incinerator delivery line 10 falls below a threshold and deactivated after a period of time and/or after the gas pressure exceeds a threshold. Incinerator delivery line 10 can also include isolation components and/or instrumentation to interface between the flow interface control 9 and incinerator 12.

[0067] Similarly, a gas control 13 can be disposed within and/or operatively coupled to the incinerator delivery line 10. The gas control 13 can be controlled via control and monitoring system 11, and can control and direct or divert gas to incinerator 12. Gas control valve 13 can include, for example, mechanical, diaphragm, pneumatic, electro-hydraulic, electrical control, and/or relief valves. In some embodiments, gas control 13 can include flame arresters.

[0068] The incinerator 12 is a device configured to thermally oxidize flammable gasses extracted from the gas well. The incinerator 12 can include any type of enclosed burner or flare configured to combust the incoming gas. The incinerator 12 can include gas pressure control, flame failure detectors, flame arrester, and/or additional instrumentation devices or controls.

[0069] In some embodiments, the incinerator 12 can be a unitary assembly. In other words, the incinerator 12 can include multiple components coupled together to operate as described herein. In some embodiments, as described herein, the incinerator 12 can be mounted or attached to a mobile chassis and/or transportation platform (see e.g., system 600 described below). These and/or other configurations can be used to increase mobility of incinerator 12 in a particular application or mining environment. The incinerator 12 can be (or include) one or more commercially available products.

[0070] The control and monitoring system 11 can be substantially similar to the measuring and monitoring system 291, the control system 297 discussed above in relation to FIG. 2, and/or any of the control systems described herein. Control and monitoring system 11 operates to monitor the operation of the power source 3, the fluid machine 6, the flow interface control 9, the gas control 13, the incinerator 12, and/or other components of system 300. For example, control and monitoring system 11 can shut down the system 300 (e.g., remove ignition from the power source 3, close any number of valves within the system or the like) upon a fault condition, can provide inputs to ensure the desired operation of the flow interface control 9 and the incinerator 12, and/or can measure operation time, gas temperature, gas pressure, volumetric flow, methane concentration and/or other flow characteristics to generate an indication of the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (e.g., to ensure regulatory compliance) and/or to generate environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits), as described herein.

[0071] In some embodiments, system 300 can include more or fewer components than illustrated in FIG. 3. For example, gas control 13 can be removed and the flow interface control 9 can be the sole control of the gas flow to incinerator 12. In some embodiments, system 300 can include additional gas controls. Furthermore, system 300 can include additional sensors, transducers, and/or measurement devices of the types described herein.

[0072] In some embodiments, multiple systems 300 can be configured to operate in tandem and/or can share components. For example, multiple systems 300 can share a single incinerator 12 and/or vent 8. Thus, multiple incinerator delivery lines 10 can interface with a single incinerator 12. Additionally, multiple fluid machines 6 can be operatively coupled to a single gas well delivery pipe 1 and/or a single gas suction pipe 5. Moreover, flow interface controls 9 can be operatively coupled to a single vent 8. Furthermore, multiple fluid machines 6 can be coupled to a single power source 3 or, alternatively, multiple power sources 3 can be coupled to a single fluid machine 6.

[0073] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system 400, according to an embodiment. System 400 is substantially similar to system 300 discussed above; however, system 400 is substantially enclosed within housing 14. Housing 14 can be, for example, a shipping container, a mobile trailer mounted on a wheeled chassis, and/or some other housing or container. Additionally, similar to system 300, system 400 includes a gas well delivery pipe 1, a starter fuel supply 2, a power source (or motor) 3, a primary fuel line 4, a gas suction pipe 5, a fluid machine (or pump) 6, a mechanical coupling 7, a vent 8, a flow interface control 9, an incinerator delivery line 10, an incinerator 12, and a gas control 13. System 400 can also include a control and monitoring system (not shown).

[0074] System 400 is an integrated, self-contained gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system. Thus, system 400 can have an external coupling or pipe that can be coupled to the gas well delivery pipe 1 and otherwise operated within housing 14. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the vent 8 and the incinerator 12 can be open to the outside of housing 14 such that methane and the byproducts of the incinerated methane can be expelled into the atmosphere rather than into housing 14.

[0075] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a gas extraction, incineration and monitoring system 500. The system 500 includes a transportation platform 502, a gas well adapter 510, an extraction assembly 530, an interface assembly 540, an incinerator assembly 550, a vent assembly 570, and a control assembly 590. The system is 500 is configured to extract a waste or vented gas (e.g., methane gas); utilize the extracted gas to produce mechanical, electrical, and/or heat energy; incinerate extracted gas; vent a portion of the extracted gas to the atmosphere under certain conditions; and/or monitor and/or otherwise track the reduction of pollutant constituents. Each of the components of the system 500 are described below.

[0076] The system 500 is similar to and can have similar components to the system 300 and the system 400. Accordingly, components within the system 500 that are similar components described above with respect to systems 300 and 400 can have similar structure and/or perform similar functions as described above. By way of example, the fluid machine 531 of the system 500 can be similar in configuration to the fluid machine 3 of the system 300. Furthermore, any component described in relation to system 300 and/or system 400, can be included in the system 500, and vice-versa.

[0077] The transportation platform 502 is a mobile platform configured to facilitate the ingress and egress of the system 500 into and from a fluid extraction location (e.g., an area adjacent a gas well GW). The transportation platform 502 includes wheels 503 and an earth ground 507, and can be configured to accept modular mounted assemblies, such as those described herein. The transportation platform 502 includes a coupling 519 that can be used to removably couple the gas well adapter 510 and/or any other portion of the system 500 (e.g., the vent assembly (570) to the transportation platform 502 during transportation of the system 500. The coupling 519 can be located in any suitable location along transportation platform 502. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the coupling 519 can be located at an end of the transportation platform 502, to coincide with the position of the gas well adapter 510. In this manner, the gas well adapter 510 can be removably coupled to the transportation platform 502 to facilitate removal of the gas well adapter 510 after transportation of the system 500 to the extraction location.

[0078] In some embodiments, the transportation platform is a flatbed trailer. In some embodiments, the transportation platform 502 is dimensioned similar to a standard trailer to facilitate portability of the transportation platform and the system 500, such as, for example, along roads, rails, and on ships. Similarly stated, in some embodiments, the transportation platform 502 and the components coupled thereto can be configured to comply with a standard (e.g., a state standard for size and/or weight) for on-road transportation. Although shown as including wheels 503, in other embodiments, a transportation platform can include tracks, skids, etc., in lieu of or in addition to wheels 503.

[0079] The earth ground 507 is configured to be disposed between the transportation platform 502 and the ground to reduce the likelihood of the transmission of electricity (e.g., via a lightning strike and/or other static electric charge) from the system 500 to the gas well GW. The earth ground 507, therefore, is a substantially non-conductive member that can be placed, for example, between the mounting supports and/or any outriggers (not shown in FIG. 7) of the transportation platform 502 and the ground.

[0080] The gas well adapter 510 is configured to connect the remainder of the system 500 (e.g., the extraction assembly 530) to the source of gas (e.g., the gas well GW). Although shown as being coupled to a mine gas well GW, the gas well adapter 510 is configured to be coupled to a wide variety of gas sources, including mine sources, landfills, wells associated with geological exploration or the like. Moreover, as described below, the gas well adapter 510 includes a variety of different components and/or features to enhance the safety of the methane extraction operation. Such functionality includes, for example, electrically isolating the gas well GW from the remainder of the system 500, the inclusion of one or more fiame arrestors (e.g., fiame arrestor 515) to limit the propagation of a flame within the plumbing and/or one or more electronically controlled valves (e.g., the first valve 516 and/or the second valve 517) to automatically shut off the gas flow under certain conditions. Although the gas well adapter 510 is described below as including certain components and functionality, in other embodiments a gas well adapter can include only a portion of the components and functionality as described with respect to the gas well adapter 510.

[0081] The gas well adapter 510 includes a frame 511, an inlet member 512, an outlet member 513, a first valve 516, a second valve 517, at least one pressure sensor 504, a temperature sensor 506, a flame arrestor 515, and an electrical isolation member 514. The frame

511 can be any suitable frame. In some embodiments, the frame can be a skid that is configured to be moved by a forklift or other industrial equipment. In some embodiments, the frame can be a four foot by six foot frame to facilitate portability of the gas well adapter 510. Although shown as being removably attached to the transportation platform 502 via the coupling 519, in other embodiments, the frame 511 can include a coupling (not shown in FIG. 7) to facilitate mounting to the transportation platform 502. In other embodiments the frame 511 can be substantially permanently attached to the transportation platform 502. In yet other embodiments the frame can be separate from the transportation platform 502.

[0082] The inlet member 512 is configured to be coupled to any number of different outlet pipe configurations that may be employed with the gas well GW. For example, the inlet member

512 can be coupled to any range of pipe sizes (e.g., 6 inch pipe, 8 inch pipe) and any length of pipe extending above the surface (e.g., ranging from a pipe that is substantially flush with the surface to a pipe that extends four feet or more from the surface). Moreover, the inlet member can be configured to be coupled to any flange connection. For example, in some embodiments, the inlet member 512 can include a traditional pipe flange. In other embodiments, the inlet member 512 can include a quick-connect flange (e.g., a flange that includes captive bolts or the like and/or that otherwise facilitates quick connection to the gas well GW flange.

[0083] In some embodiments, the inlet member 512 can have a flexible portion to allow the flange or connection portion of the inlet member 512 to be positioned in any suitable orientation to be coupled to the gas well GW. For example, in some embodiments, the inlet member 512 includes a flexible portion configured to couple the inlet member 512 to the outlet pipe of the gas well GW forming an angle A (as shown in FIG. 7) with a ground surface of between zero and one hundred-eighty degrees. In other embodiments the inlet member 512 includes a flexible portion configured to couple the inlet member 512 to the outlet pipe forming an angle with a ground surface of between zero and ninety degrees. In this manner, gas well adapter 510 can be positioned in any orientation relative to the surface, which can also be in any suitable orientation. For example the gas well adapter 510 can be positioned above the gas well GW (e.g., the gas well GW can be at the surface SU; down a hill or mountain side; or within a crater/quarry, etc.), substantially level with the gas well GW, or below the gas well GW.

[0084] The outlet member 513 is configured to be coupled to the extraction assembly 530. As described below, the outlet member 513 can be selectively placed in fluid communication with the inlet member 512 and/or the gas well GW. A gas flow from the gas well GW can therefore be conveyed from the gas well GW to the extraction assembly 530 via the outlet member 513. Although the outlet member 513 is shown in FIG. 7 as being coupled to the extraction assembly 530, in other embodiments, the outlet member 513 can be coupled to any suitable receiver, such as, for example, a gas reservoir or tank, an incinerator, a vent stack or the like.

[0085] The first valve 516 and the second valve 517 operate to selectively fluidically isolate the gas well GW from the system 500. The first valve 516 and the second valve 517 can be any suitable valve, such as, for example, a gate valve, a ball valve, a check valve or the like. In some embodiments, the first valve 516 can be a gate valve (e.g., and isolation valve), and the second valve 517 can be a check valve (e.g., a non-return valve). For example, in some embodiments, the first valve 516 and/or the second valve 517 can be a 1550 series gate valve manufactured by Milwaukee Valve Company, a 10 series ball valve manufactured by Milwaukee Valve Company, or a 1570 series check valve manufactured by Milwaukee Valve Company. Although shown as including two valves, in other embodiments, the gas well adapter 510 can include more or fewer valves, and can include any combination of isolation valves and/or non-return valves.

[0086] As described below, the first valve 516 and the second valve 517 are electronically controlled. In particular, the operation of first valve 516 and second valve 517 is described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. In other embodiments, however, the first valve 516 and the second valve 517 can be controlled and/or operated in any suitable manner (e.g., electronically, manually, pneumatically, hydraulically, and/or the like).

[0087] The flame arrestor 515 is disposed between the inlet member 512 and the outlet member 513 and operates to allow flow of gas therethrough while impeding the propagation of flame and/or explosions within the gas well adapter 510. The flame arrestor 515, which can also be referred to as a flame detonator, can be any suitable flame arrestor that will allow the desired range of gas flow therethrough (e.g., between 30 and 3000 CFM) while impeding the propagation of flames. In general, a flame arrestor can be classified based on whether it is disposed in-line or at the end of the line; whether it is configured to impede deflagration, detonation, or both; stable and/or unstable detonation; and short time or endurance burning. In some embodiments, the flame arrestor 515 can be an in-line flame arrestor and can be configured to impede deflagration, stable detonation, and short time burning. For example, in some embodiments, the flame arrestor 515 can be a RMG 933-SE manufactured by Honeywell Process Solutions. In some embodiments, the flame arrestor 515 can be configured for use with stable and/or unstable detonation, deflagration, and for short-time and/or endurance burning.

[0088] The gas well adapter 510 includes a pressure sensor 504 disposed at an inlet of the flame arrestor 515, and configured to measure the pressure of the gas flow entering the flame arrestor 515, and a pressure sensor 504 disposed at an outlet of the flame arrestor 515, and configured to measure the pressure of gas exiting the flame arrestor 515. The pressure sensors 504 can be configured to measure the gas pressure within a predetermined range, as described below. Moreover, the pressure sensors 504 can be operative ly coupled to the control assembly 590. In this manner, the control assembly 590 can monitor the pressure drop across the flame arrestor 515 to determine whether the flame arrestor 515 needs to be cleaned, have maintenance performed, and/or be replaced. The signals from the pressure sensors 504 can also be used by the control assembly 590 to determine whether a flame event has occurred adjacent the flame arrestor 515. Although shown as including two pressure sensors, in other embodiments, the gas well adapter 510 can include any number of pressure sensors. For example, in some embodiments, the gas well adapter 510 can include a pressure sensor upstream of the first valve 516. Such an arrangement can be used, for example to determine whether the pressure within gas well GW is within the desired range for operation of the system 500.

[0089] The gas well adapter 510 includes a temperature sensor 506 disposed adjacent the flame arrestor 515 that is configured to measure the temperature within the flame arrestor 515. The temperature sensor 506 can be operatively coupled to the control assembly 590. In this manner, when the temperature of the flame arrestor rises above a predetermined threshold, control assembly 590 can produce a control signal indicating that a flame, explosion or other unsafe condition is present. In some embodiments, the control signal can be used to produce an indication to an operator to shut down the system 500. In other embodiments, the control signal can transmitted to the first valve 516, the second valve 517 and/or any other component within the system 500 to automatically shut down the system 500. In some embodiments, the gas well adapter 510 can include more or fewer (i.e., no) temperature sensors 506. For example, the gas well adapter 510 can include a temperature sensor before and/or after the flame arrestor 515.

[0090] The electrical isolation member 514 is disposed between the outlet member 513 and the inlet member 512 and prevents and electrical charge (e.g., from a lightning strike or other static charge) from traveling through the system 500 and into the gas well GW. The electrical isolation member 514 includes non-conducting material, and in some embodiments, the electrical isolation member can be a section of pipe. Although the electrical isolation member 514 is described as being distinct from the outlet member 513, in some embodiments the outlet member can include an isolation portion that functions to electrically isolate the inlet member 512 from the outlet member 513.

[0091] As described in more detail below, components of the gas well adapter 510 can be operably coupled to the control assembly 590. In this manner, the control assembly 590 can allow automated control of valves, can produce outputs related to status of flow, status of flame arrestor or the like.

[0092] The extraction assembly 530 of the system 500 includes a fluid machine 531, a power source 532, and is configured to extract gas (e.g., methane gas) from the gas well GW. Said another way, the extraction assembly 530 is configured to be fluidically coupled to the gas well GW and produce a flow of fluid therefrom. Although the extraction assembly 530 is described below as including certain components and functionality, in other embodiments an extraction assembly can include only a portion of the components and functionality as described with respect to the extraction assembly 500. In addition to extracting fluid from a source, extraction assembly 530 is configured to provide power to the system 500 and/or reduce certain pollutant constituents (e.g., by combusting the extracted gas, which can include methane). Although the extraction assembly 530 is shown as being coupled to the transportation platform 502, in other embodiments, the extraction assembly 530 can be disposed apart from the transportation platform 502. For example in some embodiments the extraction assembly 530 can be removably and/or modularly coupled to the transportation platform 502.

[0093] The fluid machine 531 is configured to produce a flow of extracted gas to the system 500, to produce a fluid flow to a power source 532, and to be driven by the power source 532. The fluid machine 531 is coupled to the outlet member 513 of gas well adapter 510. The fluid machine 531 includes an outlet member 537 to fluidically couple the fluid machine 531 to the interface assembly 540. The fluid machine 531 can be any suitable blower or other gas pump. For example, in some embodiments, the fluid machine can be a multi-stage centrifugal blower.

[0094] The fluid machine 531 can be configured to produce any suitable flow rate of and/or pressure within the gas extracted from the gas well GW. In some embodiments, the fluid machine 531 can produce a fluid flow rate of between about 250 cubic feet per minute ("CFM") and about 2500 CFM. In this manner, the turndown ratio of the system 500 can be approximately 10: 1 (2500/250). In other embodiments, the fluid machine 531 can have a greater range (e.g., 50 CFM to 5000 CFM), a lesser range (e.g., 500 CFM to 2000 CFM), and/or a different range (e.g., 750 CFM to 3000 CFM). In some embodiments the fluid machine 531 can produce flow rates greater than 3000 CFM and/or less than 50 CFM. As described in more detail below, the fluid machine 531 can be dynamically balanced with the other fluid flow components (e.g., the flame arrestor 515, the incinerator assembly 550 and the valves 516, 517) such that the system 500 can produce an overall turndown ratio of approximately 10: 1.

[0095] Similar to the system 300 described above, the outlet member 537 of the fluid machine 531 is fluidically coupled to the power source 532. Thus, at least a portion of the gas flow produced by the fluid machine 531 is conveyed to the power source 532. Said another way, the fluid machine 531 can direct a portion of the extracted gas flow (e.g., a combustion gas useable as fuel) to the power source 532, and the power source 532 can use the portion of extracted gas flow as fuel, as described below.

[0096] The power source 532 can be any suitable source of power configured to drive the fluid machine 531 and/or provide power to the other components of the system 500 as described herein. In this manner, the system 500 can operate independent of any external power supply and/or power grid. Said another way, the power source 532 can provide all of the power needs of the system 500. In some embodiments, the power source 532 is configured to convert a portion of the fluid extracted from the gas well GW by the fluid machine 531 into power. For example, in some embodiments, the power source 532 is an engine configured to convert a portion of the extracted gas into power, similar to the power source 3 described above with reference to the system 300. In other embodiments, power source 532 can be any other suitable power source, such as, for example, a turbine, a fuel cell, or a combination of power sources.

[0097] The power source 532 can supply power to the fluid machine 531 via any suitable power transmission mechanism. In some embodiments, the fluid machine 531 can be mechanically coupled to the power source 532. In such embodiments, the fluid machine 531 can be coupled to the power source via a transmission (not shown) and/or other gearing system (e.g., a manual transmission, automatic transmission, a transmission with a single gear, multiple gears, and/or a constantly variable transmission). In this manner, the coupling between the power source 532 and the fluid machine 531 can be changed to increase or decrease the fluid flow produced by the fluid machine 531. In other embodiments, the fluid machine 531 is mechanically coupled to an electric motor (not shown), and the electric motor can be electrically coupled to the power source 532. The electric motor can be any electric motor (e.g. single speed, variable speed, etc) suitable to drive the fluid machine 531.

[0098] As described in more detail below, components of the extraction assembly 530 can be operably coupled to the control assembly 590. More particularly, the fluid machine 531 and the power source 532 can be operably coupled to system controller 597 to allow automated control of power source 532 and/or the fluid machine 531. Additionally, electronic control assembly 590 can produce outputs related to status of flow, the status of components or the like.

[0099] The interface assembly 540 is configured to direct at least a portion of the fluid extracted from the gas well GW to one or more destinations based on a variety of factors, such as, for example, the flow rate of the fluid being extracted, the chemical composition of the fluid be extracted, the power demand of the system 500, the operation status of certain components of the system 500, and/or for safety and/or maintenance purposes. Specifically, the interface assembly 540 is configured to direct at least of portion of the fluid extracted from the gas well GW to the incinerator assembly 550 and/or the vent assembly 570. In this manner when conditions for combustion of the extracted gas within the incinerator 570 are not suitable (e.g., any one of the concentration, the flow rate, transient fluctuations in gas flow or the like is not suitable for combustion), the interface assembly 540 can direct at least a portion of the extracted gas to the vent assembly 570.

[00100] The flow interface assembly 540 includes an inlet member 541, a first outlet member 542, and a second outlet member 543. The flow interface assembly 540 also includes one or more valves (not shown in FIG. 7) to selectively control the amount of extracted gas that is delivered to the incinerator assembly 550 and/or the vent assembly 570.

[00101] The inlet member 541 is configured to direct fluid from the extraction assembly 530 to the interface assembly 540. The inlet member 541 includes a series of sensors disposed therein, including at least one pressure sensor 504, a temperature sensor 506, and a fluid concentration sensor 508. The fluid concentration sensor 508 can measure and/or otherwise monitor the concentration of one or more constituents, chemicals, or compositions within the gas flow. In some embodiments, the fluid concentration sensor 508 can measure and/or monitor the concentration of certain constituents (e.g., methane) in the gas being extracted from the gas well GW. As described herein, the signals each of these sensors, including the fluid concentration sensor 508, can be used by the control assembly 590 to adjust the operation of the system 500. For example, the control assembly 590 can shut down the system 500 (e.g., remove ignition from the power source 532, close any number of valves within the system or the like) based, at least in part, on the signals each of these sensors. More particularly, the control assembly 590 can shut down the system if the concentration of methane within the gas flow drops below a particular level (e.g., 25 percent).

[00102] Signals from the pressure sensors 504 can also be used to calculate the flow rate of fluid between the extraction assembly 530 and the interface assembly 540. In some embodiments, the inlet member 541 can include an orifice, one pressure sensor 504 disposed upstream of the orifice and one pressure sensor 504 disposed downstream of the orifice. The orifice can be sized such that the pressure drop across the orifice can be used to determine flow rate through the orifice. In some embodiments, flow rate and concentration info can be corrected for changing atmospheric conditions (e.g., pressure and temperature). In some embodiments, flow data (e.g., concentration, flow rate, etc.) and atmospheric data can be monitored and stored by the systems within the control assembly 590 and can be combined with other system information to generate an output associated with the amount of methane, and/or other pollutant constituent, that is combusted by the incinerator assembly 550. This information can by used by the control assembly 590 to produce an indication of the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the extraction process, as described herein. In some embodiments, the control assembly 590 can produce a real-time calculation of the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

[00103] The interface assembly 540 includes any suitable mechanism, valve(s), and/or valve arrangement for directing flow to the first outlet 542 and the second outlet 543. The first outlet 542 directs fluid to the incinerator assembly 550, and the second outlet 543 directs fluid to the vent assembly 570. The control assembly 590 can monitor the interface assembly to determine the amount of a gas constituent, such as methane, that is being directed to the incinerator assembly 550 and to the vent assembly 570, and can therefore calculate the amount of methane combusted as a function of time, as well as the amount of methane vented to the atmosphere.

[00104] The interface assembly 540 can be operatively coupled to the control assembly 590. More particularly, the interface assembly 540 can be operably coupled to the system controller 597 to allow automated control of flow to the incinerator assembly 550 and/or the vent assembly 570, to produce outputs related to status of flow, status of components or the like, as described herein.

[00105] Although the interface assembly 540 is described below as including certain components and functionality, in other embodiments an interface assembly can include only a portion of the components and functionality as described with respect to the flow interface assembly 540.

[00106] The incinerator assembly 550 is configured to combust at least a portion of the fluid extracted from the gas well GW. The incinerator assembly 550 can be coupled to the transportation platform 502, as shown in FIG. 7. In other embodiments, however, the incinerator assembly 550 can be disposed apart from the transportation platform 502, can be removably (or modularly) coupled to the transportation platform 502, or the like. The incinerator assembly 550 includes an incinerator intake valve 551, two pressure sensors 504, a temperature sensor 506, a flame arrestor 515, an inlet member 552, and an incinerator 553. The incinerator valve 551 can be similar in configuration to the first valve 516 and/or the second valve 517 described above with reference to the gas well adapter 510. The incinerator valve 551 is configured to fiuidically isolate the incinerator 553 and the outlet member 542 of the interface assembly 540 in response to an event or condition.

[00107] The incinerator 553 is coupled to the first outlet 542 of the interface assembly 540 via the inlet member 552. The inlet member 552 can include any suitable pipe, the two pressure sensors 504, the temperature sensor 506, and the flame arrestor 515. The two pressure sensors 504, the temperature sensor 506, and the flame arrestor 515 operate similarly to the corresponding components described above within the gas well adapter 510. The incinerator 553 can be any suitable incinerator configured to combust the gas extracted from gas well GW. In some embodiments, the incinerator can be sized to combust fluids at flow rates of less than 3000 CFM. In some embodiments, the incinerator 553 can be configured to combust fluids having a methane gas concentration of between 15 percent and 100 percent. In some other embodiments the incinerator 553 can be configured to combust fluids at flow rates of between about 250 CFM and about 2500 CFM.

[00108] The incinerator 553 includes sensors configured to monitor the performance of the incinerator 553 and the characteristics of the combustion within the incinerator 553. Specifically, in some embodiments, the incinerator 553 can include at least one thermocouple configured and/or positioned to monitor combustion performance. In some embodiments, incinerator 553 can include emissions measurement sensors to measure exhaust emissions (e.g., constituent concentration) to verify efficiency of combustion and/or to verify the amount of methane (or other constituents within the extracted gas ) destroyed.

[00109] Portions of the incinerator assembly 550, including the sensors monitoring the incinerator 553 described above, can be operably coupled to the control assembly 590. More particularly, portions of the incinerator assembly 550 can be operably coupled to system controller 597 to allow automated control of the incinerator 553, to produce outputs related to status of flow, status of components or the like, as described herein.

[00110] The vent assembly 570 is configured to allow fluid extracted from the gas well GW to vent to the atmosphere with being combusted and/or routed through the incinerator assembly 550. Specifically, the vent assembly 570 is configured to allow extracted gas to vent to atmosphere without being combusted when conditions for combustion within the incinerator assembly 550 are not suitable. The vent assembly 570, which is spaced apart from the incinerator 550 and/or the transportation platform 502, includes a vent 571, a vent valve 572, a pressure governor 574, two pressure sensors 504, a temperature sensor 506, a flame arrestor 515, and an inlet member 576. The vent valve 572 can be similar in configuration to the first valve 516 and/or the second valve 517. The vent valve 572 is configured to stop the flow of extracted gas to the vent 571 in response to an event or condition.

[00111] The vent 571 is coupled to the second outlet 543 of the interface assembly 540 via the inlet member 576. The inlet member 576 can include any suitable pipe, the two pressure sensors 504, the temperature sensor 506, and the flame arrestor 515. The two pressure sensors 504, the temperature sensor 506, and the flame arrestor 515 operate similarly to the corresponding components described above within the gas well adapter 510.

[00112] Portions of the vent assembly 570, including the sensors monitoring the vent 571 described above, can be operably coupled to the control assembly 590. More particularly, portions of the vent assembly 570 can be operably coupled to system controller 597 to allow automated control of the vent assembly 570, to produce outputs related to status of flow, status of components or the like, as described herein.

[00113] FIG. 8 is a system block diagram of the control assembly 590. The control assembly 590 can be configured to interconnect the assemblies within system 500; monitor at least a portion of each of the assemblies; control various components of each of the assemblies; calculate various data based on monitored data, received data, and/or a combination of monitored and/or received data; receive local and/or remote commands; and communicate data. The control assembly 590 can be coupled to the transportation platform 502. In other embodiments, however, the control assembly 590 can be disposed apart from the transportation platform 502, can be removably / modularly coupled to the transportation platform 502, or the like. Although the control assembly 590 is described below as including certain components and functionality, in other embodiments, a control assembly can include only a portion of the components and functionality as described with respect to the control assembly 590.

[00114] The control assembly 590 is operably coupled to each of the gas well adapter 510, the extraction assembly 530, the interface assembly 540, the incinerator assembly 550, and the vent assembly 570. The control assembly includes multiple systems interconnected to perform the functions described herein, including a measuring and monitoring system 591, a communication system 592 in communication with a communications tower (not shown in FIG. 7), a data storage and reporting system 595, and a system controller 597. Each of the systems of the control assembly 590 can send signals to and receive signals from different assemblies of the system 500 depending on the function of the control system. FIGS. 9-11 depict block diagrams showing signal paths of the various control systems of the control assembly 590. Specifically, FIG. 9 depicts control signal paths, FIG. 10 depicts monitoring and measuring signal paths, and FIG. 11 depicts communication signal paths.

[00115] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the control signals A that can be received and/or produced by the system controller 597. The system controller 597 can produce and transmit control signals to various valves described above (e.g., the first valve 516, the second valve 517, the incinerator valve 551, and/or the vent valve 572, etc). The system controller 597 can also receive input from any of the sensors shown and described herein (described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 10). Moreover, the system controller 597 can also receive input from a user via the communication system 592 (manual override, etc.) and/or from a remote station via the communications tower 593. In this manner, a user can start, stop, and/or otherwise operate the system 500 either locally and/or remotely. The system controller 597 includes one or more processors configured to execute various control algorithms to ensure the desired operation of the 500 (including safety shutdowns, adjustments to ensure integrity of the regulatory compliance report, environmental attribute credit (e.g., carbon offset credit) calculation or the like). Details of various control algorithms are discussed below.

[00116] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the measuring and monitoring signals B that can be received and/or produced by the control assembly 590, specifically, by the monitoring and measurement system 591. The monitoring and measurement system 591 receives signals from any of the sensors described above (pressure, temperature, concentration, etc); resulting from the calculations of individual monitoring component (e.g., methane concentration, flow rate calculation, greenhouse gas reduction, and/or efficiency, etc.); and/or from any component of any of the assemblies of the system 500 (e.g., feedback regarding a valve position or the like). The monitoring and measurement system 591 can forward and/or adjust (e.g., perform calculations on) the data, received to the system controller 597 and/or the communications system 592. The system controller 597 can use the monitoring and measurement data to produce control signals to send to the components of the system 500, as described herein. The communications system 592 can transmit measuring and monitoring data to a remote location for analysis and or storage.

[00117] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the communications signals C that can be received and/or transmitted by the communications system 592. The communications system can send and/or receive signals representing data to and/or from the system controller 597, monitoring and measurement system 591, data storage and reporting system 595 and/or the remote station, as described herein. In this manner, the communication system 592 can facilitate the transmission of data between the various systems within the control assembly 590, between the remote station and the system 500, and amongst the assemblies of the system 500 and the control assembly 590.

[00118] As described above, the power source 531 can supply all of the power to the system 500. Thus, the system 500 can be decoupled and/or can operate independently from any external power source (electric power grid, portable generator set, or the like). FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the power transmission from the power source 532 to other components within the system 500. As shown in FIG. 12, the power source 532 supplies power to the gas well adapter 510, the interface assembly 540, the incinerator assembly 550, and the control systems of the control assembly 590. In some embodiments, power source 532 can supply power to an electric motor or other device to drive the fluid machine 531. In some embodiments, the power source 532 can supply power to components not directly coupled to or disposed on the transportation platform 502, such as, for example, the vent assembly 570. Said another way, the power source 532 can supply all of the power necessary to operate the system 500. In this manner, the system 500 can operate, without the need for external fuel and/or electricity. While not shown in FIGS. 7, 8, or 12, the system 500 can include any necessary converters (AC/DC, voltage dividers, etc.), transformers, or any other electrical system components to condition the power produced by the power source 532 to operate the components of system 500 described herein.

[00119] Each component of the system 500 can be selected to correspond and/or be compatible with each of the other components within the system 500. In particular, the fluid handling components of the system 500 (e.g., the piping, the valves, the flame arrestors and the like, described above) can be configured such that the operational characteristics of each component corresponds to and/or is compatible with the operational characteristics of the other components. Such operational characteristics include, for example, the range of flow rates and/or fluid pressure that each component is configured to receive and/or produce. In this manner, the components can be "matched" or "dynamically balanced" to provide the desired overall system performance while maintaining the size, weight and portability characteristics described herein. For example, the flame arrestors described herein are sized to operate in the range of flow rates specified herein without producing a high frictional loss that could undesirably impact the performance of the fluid handling components downstream. Similarly, the fluid machine 531 is configured to produce a substantially steady flow within the ranges specified above without entering into regions of stall or unsteady performance. As another example, in embodiments in which the fluid machine 531 is configured to operate effectively from between 250 CFM and 2500 CFM, the flame arrestors 515 are configured to operate effectively from between 250 CFM and 2500 CFM without produce a high frictional loss.

[00120] FIG. 13 - FIG. 16 are flow charts depicting methods of operating the system 500 or any of the other systems described herein (e.g., the system 300 or the system 600). For any method described herein, any step performed can be manually performed by a local or remote user, automatically performed by a local or remote control system, and/or by a combination of local and/or remote manual and/or automated steps. In this manner, in any method of operating system 500, when the control assembly, system controller, or other automated or automation component performs an action, a method may alternatively include alerting a user to perform the action. Similarly, when the control assembly, system controller, or other automated or automation component does not perform an action, a method may alternatively include alerting a user to not perform the action. Additionally, any method can repeat steps during the operation of the system 500 to monitor the system 500, and/or to ensure the continued operation of system 500.

[00121] FIG. 13 is a flow chart depicting a method 5000 operating the system 500, specifically, a method of starting (i.e., allowing extracted gas flow through) the gas well adapter 510. Method 5000 includes checking the gas well pressure, at 5002, and determining whether the gas well pressure is acceptable, at 5004. If the gas well pressure is not acceptable (e.g., above or below a predetermined range), control assembly 590 does not open the gas well valve, the first valve 516 and/or the second valve 517, at 5006. If the gas well pressure is acceptable (e.g., within a predetermined range), the gas well adapter start is initiated, at 5008.

[00122] The method 5000 also includes de-energizing the gas well valve, the first valve 516 and/or the second valve 517 in response to certain measured conditions. In this manner, for example, the outlet member 513 of the gas well adapter 510 can be fluidically isolated from the inlet member 512 of the gas well adapter 510 when conditions are not suitable for system operation. The method includes determining whether the temperature of the flame arrestor of the gas well adapter 510 is high, at 5010; whether the float switch is high, at 5012; and whether the system controller 597 maintains a "run" control signal, at 5014. If the temperature of the flamer arrestor is high, the float switch is high (e.g., a switch indicating a level of condensation or other moisture accumulation within the system), and/or the system controller 597 stops the "run" control signal, an actuator configured to open and close a gas well adapter valve (e.g., the first valve 516 or the second valve 517) can close the gas well adapter valve if it is open, or maintain the gas well adapter valve in its closed position, at 5016. If the temperature of the flamer arrestor is low, the float switch is low, and/or the system controller 597 maintains the "run" control signal, an actuator configured to open and close a gas well adapter valve can open the gas well adapter valve if it is closed, at 5018. In some embodiments, such as for example, if the first valve 516 is an isolation valve, and the second valve 516 is a non-return valve, the actuator with open and/or close the first valve 516 in steps 5016 and 5018. [00123] The method 5000 includes determining whether the gas well adapter valve proving switch is open, at 5020. If a valve proving switch is open or closed, the control assembly 590 can receive a signal confirming that a valve is open or closed respectively. If the gas well adapter proving switch is not open, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 5022, as will be described herein. The method 5000 also includes determining whether the gas well GW is under a vacuum, at 5024. If the gas well GW is under vacuum, a gas well adapter non-return valve can be actuated to prevent flow from the system 500 back into the gas well GW, at 5026. If the gas well GW is not under vacuum, fluid from gas well GW can flows into the gas well adapter 510, at 5028. The method 500 includes determining whether the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the gas well adapter 510 is high, at 5030. If the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the gas well adapter 510 is high, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 5022. If the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the gas well adapter 510 is not high, fluid from the gas well GW is permitted to flow through the gas well adapter 510 and into the fluid machine (e.g., fluid machine 531), at 5032.

[00124] The method 5000 can include an emergency stop sequence, at 5034. If an emergency stop is initiated, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 5022. If the control assembly trips the system 500, an actuator can close the gas well adapter valve, at 5036, and can determine that the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, at 5038. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are not closed, the method 5000 includes sending an alarm, at 5040. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, the method 5000 includes shutting the system 500 down, at 5042.

[00125] FIG. 14 is a flow chart depicting a method 6000 operating the system 500, and more specifically, a method of running the gas well adapter 510 after the "start-up" period. The method 6000 includes determining whether the system controller 597 maintains a "run" control signal, at 6002; whether the vent valve 572 proving switch is closed, at 6004; whether the temperature of the flamer arrestor 515 of the gas well adapter 510 is high, at 6006; whether the gas well adapter pipeline pressure is high, at 6008; whether the gas well adapter pipeline pressure is low, at 6010; whether the pressure switch is on, at 6012; and/or whether the water level is high, at 6014. The water level can be associated with a level of condensation and/or water accumulation within the system. When the system controller 597 does not maintain a "run" control signal and/or sends a "stop" signal, the vent valve 572 proving switch is open, the temperature of the flamer arrestor 515 of the gas well adapter 510 is high, the gas well adapter pipeline pressure is high, the gas well adapter pipeline pressure is low, the pressure switch is off, and/or the water level is high, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 6016, as described herein. When the system controller 597 maintains a "run" control signal, the vent valve 572 proving switch is closed, the temperature of the flamer arrestor 515 of the gas well adapter 510 is not high, the gas well adapter pipeline pressure is not high, the gas well adapter pipeline pressure is not low, the pressure switch is on, and the water level is not high, the method 6000 includes determining the pressure loss across a system filter, at 6018. The filter can be at any location within the system 500, such as, for example, at the inlet to the power source 532 and/or at the inlet to the fluid machine 531.

[00126] The method 6000 includes determining if the pressure loss across the system filter is high (e.g., the pressure differential between a pressure sensor upstream of the filter and a pressure sensor downstream of the filter is high), at 6020. If the pressure differential is high, the system 500 can perform a manual or automatic emergency stop, at 6022, and the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 6016. If the pressure differential is not high, the method 6000 includes checking the pressure loss across the flame arrestor 515 of the gas well adapter 510, at 5024. If the pressure loss is high, the system 500 can perform a manual or automatic emergency stop, at 6022; and if the pressure loss is not high, the system can continue to run.

[00127] The method 6000 can include an emergency stop sequence, at 6028. If an emergency stop is initiated, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 6016. If the control assembly trips the system 500, an actuator can close the gas well adapter valve, at 6030, and can determine that the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, at 6032. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are not closed, the method 6000 includes sending an alarm, at 6034. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, the method 6000 includes shutting the system 500 down, at 6036.

[00128] FIG. 15 is a flow chart depicting a method 7000 operating the system 500, specifically, a method of "starting" the interface assembly 540, including starting the incinerator assembly 550 and/or diverting the extracted gas flow to the venting assembly 570. The method 7000 includes starting the power source 532 and the fluid machine 531 with propane, at 7002. In some embodiments, for example, the system 500 can include a starter fuel supply similar to the starter fuel supply 2 shown and described above with reference to system 300. When the power source 532 is not started on propane, the methane override timer is initiated, at 7004. The methane override timer produces indication of a time period during which the system is not within certain operating conditions. When the indicated time period exceeds a predetermined value, the system can be shut down, in any manner described herein. [00129] When the power source is started on propane, fluid flowing into the system (e.g., via the gas well adapter 510), at 7006. The method 7000 then includes determining whether the methane concentration of the extracted gas from the gas well GW is less than twenty-five percent, at 7008. If the methane concentration of the fluid is less than twenty-five percent, the method 7000 includes determining whether the methane override timer is running, at 7010. If the methane override timer is not running, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 7012, as described herein. In this manner, when the methane concentration is below a rich flammability limit (i.e., is a combustible mixture) for more than a predetermined amount of time, the control assembly will prevent the operation of the system.

[00130] If the methane override timer is running and/or if the methane concentration of the fluid is greater than or equal to twenty-five percent, the method 7000 includes determining whether the vent valve proving switches are closed, at 7014; whether the flame -on vent sensor is showing the presence of a flame; whether the gas pressure within the system is high, at 7018; whether the gas pressure within the system is low, at 7020; and/or whether the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the vent assembly 570 is high, at 7022. If the vent valve proving switches are closed, the flame-on vent sensor indicates the presence of a flame, the system pressure is either too high or to low, and/or the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the vent assembly 570 is high, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 7012.

[00131] If, however, the vent valve proving switches are open, the flame-on vent sensor is not showing the presence of a flame, there is not high system pressure, there is not low pressure, and the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the vent assembly 570 is not high, the method 7000 includes the lifting the pressure governor 574 lifting to allow fluid to flow into the vent assembly 570, at 7024, which allows the extracted gas to vent to the atmosphere, at 7026. The method 7000 can include initiating the vent period incinerator purge timer, at 7028. The control assembly can monitor the vent period incinerator purge timer to determine if the incinerator starts operating within a predetermined period of time after venting starts. If the incinerator does not start within the predetermined time the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 7012. The method 7000 includes determining whether the vent period incinerator purge timer is running, at 7030. If the timer is no longer running, venting continues, at 6032, and the vent assembly 570 is indicated as "running," at 7034. If the timer is running, the interface assembly 540 directs fluid to the incinerator assembly, at 7036.

[00132] The method 7000 then includes starting the incinerator 553, at 7038, and determining whether the incinerator successfully started. If the incinerator 553 did not successfully start, the method 7000 returns to step 7032. If the incinerator successfully starts, the method 7000 includes monitoring the pressure within the incinerator 553. The method 7000 includes determining whether the pressure within the incinerator 553 has dropped, at 7040. A drop in incinerator 533 pressure can indicate that the incinerator 553 is not operating at maximum capacity and/or efficiency, and can require the venting process to stop to maximize the efficiency and/or capacity of the incineration operation. The method 7000 includes closing the vent pressure governor 574, at 7042, to stop the venting operation, at 7044. The method 7000 includes continuing the incineration and/or restarting the incinerator 553 (e.g., in the event that the pressure drop in step 7040 stopped the incinerator 553), at 7046. The method 7000 includes the incinerator assembly running, at 7048.

[00133] The method 7000 can include an emergency stop sequence, at 7050. If an emergency stop is initiated, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 7012. If the control assembly trips the system 500, an actuator can close the gas well adapter valve, at 7052, and can determine that the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, at 7054. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are not closed, the method 5000 includes sending an alarm, at 7056. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, the method 5000 includes shutting the system 500 down, at 7058.

[00134] FIG. 16 is a flow chart depicting a method 8000 operating the system 500, specifically, a method of running the interface assembly 540, including running the incinerator assembly 550 and the venting assembly 570. The method 8000 includes determining whether the system controller 587 is maintaining a "run" signal associated with the system 500, at 8002. If the system controller 587 is no longer maintaining a "run" signal, and/or is sending a "stop" signal, the control assembly 590 can trip the system 500, at 8004, as described herein. If the system controller 587 is maintaining a "run" signal for the system 500, the method 8000 includes determining whether the incinerator has tripped, at 8006. If the incinerator 553 has tripped, the pressure relief valve of the incinerator 553 lifts, at 8008, and allows fluid within the incinerator to vent to the atmosphere, at 8010. After the incinerator 553 has been reset, the system 500 can continue to run with incineration, at 8016. If the incinerator did not trip at 8006, the method 8000 includes the system 500 running with incineration, at 8014.

[00135] The method 8000 includes determining whether the valve of the gas well adapter 510 is closed, at 8016; whether the methane concentration is greater than twenty- five percent, at 8018; whether the gas pressure is high, at 8020; whether the gas pressure is low, at 8022; whether the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the vent assembly 570 is high, at 8024; and/or whether the temperature of the incinerator is high, at 8026. When the valve of the gas well adapter 510 is open, the methane concentration is less than twenty-five percent, the gas pressure is high, the gas pressure is low, the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the vent assembly 570 is high, and/or whether the temperature of the incinerator is high, the control assembly 590 can trip the system 500, at 8004. When the valve of the gas well adapter 510 is closed, the methane concentration is greater than or equal to twenty-five percent, the gas pressure is not high, the gas pressure is not low, the temperature of the flame arrestor 515 of the vent assembly 570 is not high, and whether the temperature of the incinerator is not high, the system 500 can continue to run, at 8028.

[00136] If an emergency stop is initiated, the control assembly 590 trips the system 500, at 8030. If the control assembly trips the system 500, an actuator can close the gas well adapter valve, at 8032, and can determine that the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, at 80342. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are not closed, the method 5000 includes sending an alarm, at 8036. When the gas well adapter valve proving switches are closed, the method 5000 includes shutting the system 500 down, at 8038.

[00137] As described herein, in some embodiments, the control system 590 can generate an output associated with a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the combustion of the extracted gas. Moreover, in some embodiments, the control system 590 can generate environmental attribute credits (e.g., carbon offset credits), which can be traded on a suitable exchange, based on the quantity of methane extracted and oxidized by the gas incinerator. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions can be calculated based on the quantity of gas sent to the incinerator assembly 550, the concentration of certain constituents within the gas sent to the incinerator assembly 550 (e.g., the methane concentration), the operating temperature of the incinerator assembly 550, combustion effectiveness (efficiency) of the incinerator assembly 550, the runtime of power source 532 and/or the performance specifications of the power source 532 (i.e., to calculate the amount of methane combusted by the power source). In particular, the power source 532 reduces greenhouse gas emissions through the internal combustion process. The associated GHG emission reductions are calculated based on performance specifications of the engine (e.g., BTU/HP-Hr, HP, runtime).

[00138] The extracted gas is continuously analyzed to determine the quantity of greenhouse gas (e.g., methane) that is processed by the system. The system 500 controls the flow of gas to either the incinerator assembly 550 or ventilation assembly 570, as described above. Gas that is sent to the incinerator assembly 550 is combusted and converted into a gas with a lower global warming potential, as described above (e.g., CH4 + 02 converted into C02 + H20). The combustion effectiveness (efficiency) of the incinerator is determined based on the incinerator design and operating temperature of the incinerator. Gas that is sent to the ventilation assembly 570 is not combusted or destroyed and therefore does not count towards GHG emission reductions.

[00139] FIGS. 17-20 show an integrated, self-contained methane extraction, incineration and monitoring system 600. FIG. 17 depicts the system 600 in the first configuration, and FIGS. 18- 20 depict the system 600 in the second configuration. The system 600 is similar to and can have similar components to the system 500. Accordingly, similar components can perform similar functions. By way of example, fluid machine 631 of the system 600 can be similar in configuration to the fluid machine 531 of the system 500. Furthermore, any component described in relation to system 500, can be included in the system 600 and vice-versa. By way of example, the system 600 can have a vent assembly 670 (not shown in FIGS. 17-20). Similarly, any component described in relation to system 600, can be included in the system 500. By way of example, the system 500 can include a support 605 (not shown in FIG. 7).

[00140] The system 600 includes a transportation platform 602 (having at least one wheel 603 and a support 605), a fluid machine 631, a power source 632, an incinerator 653, a control assembly 690, and an antenna tower 694. The system is 600 is configured to extract methane gas; utilize methane gas to produce mechanical, electrical, and/or heat energy; incinerate methane gas; vent methane gas to the atmosphere; reduce pollutant constituents; and/or monitor and/or otherwise track the reduction of pollutant constituents, as described herein.

[00141] The system 600 can be moved between a first (or transportation) configuration (FIG. 17) and a second (or operational) configuration (FIGS. 18-20). More particularly, as shown, the incinerator 653 is movably coupled to the transportation platform 602. When the incinerator 653 is in a first position (corresponding to the first configuration of the system 600), a centerline CL of an exhaust stack of the incinerator 653 is substantially parallel with a surface of the transportation platform 602. In other embodiments, however, the centerline CL of the exhaust stack can form any suitable angle with the surface of the transportation platform 602 (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 45 degrees, or the like.) Moreover, when the incinerator 653 is in the first position, a vertical height of the incinerator 653 and the transportation platform 602 is within a standard for on-road transportation, rail transportation and/or marine transportation. Such standards can include, for example, a state standard for size and/or weight of trailers for on-road transportation. In some embodiments, for example, the when the incinerator 653 is in the first position, the vertical height of the incinerator 653 and the transportation platform 602 can be less than 13 feet; 13 feet, six inches; 14 feet; 15 feet; or 16 feet.

[00142] Similarly, the antenna tower 694 is movably coupled to the transportation platform 602. When the antenna tower 694 is in a first position (corresponding to the first configuration of the system 600), a centerline (not identified in FIGS. 17-20) of an antenna tower 694 is configured to be substantially parallel with a surface of the transportation platform 602. Moreover, when the antenna tower 694 is in the first position, a vertical height of the antenna tower 694 and the transportation platform 602 is within a standard for on-road transportation, rail transportation and/or marine transportation.

[00143] When the incinerator 653 is in a second position (corresponding to the second configuration of the system 600), the centerline CL of the exhaust stack of the incinerator 653 is substantially non-parallel with a surface of the transportation platform 602. More particularly, the centerline CL of the exhaust stack of the incinerator 653 is substantially normal to a surface of the transportation platform 602. Moreover, when the incinerator 653 is in the second position, a vertical height of the incinerator 653 and the transportation platform 602 can exceed a standard for on-road transportation.

[00144] When the antenna tower 694 is in a second position (corresponding to the second configuration of the system 600), the centerline of the antenna tower 694 is substantially non- parallel with a surface of the transportation platform 602. More particularly, the centerline of the antenna tower 694 is substantially normal to a surface of the transportation platform 602. Moreover, when the antenna tower 694 is in the second position, a vertical height of the antenna tower 694 can exceed a standard for on-road transportation.

[00145] The incinerator 653 includes an actuator 656 to move the incinerator from its first position to its second position while the incinerator 653 remains coupled to the transportation platform 602. Although shown as being a hydraulic actuator, in other embodiments, the actuator 653 can be any suitable actuator (e.g., electric, pneumatic, etc). The incinerator 653 also includes a support 655 to support the incinerator in the second configuration. The antenna tower 694 can be moved from its first position to its second position manually, and or with an actuator (not shown).

[00146] As shown in FIGS. 17-20, when the system 600 is in the second configuration, the incinerator 653 can be operably coupled to the fluid machine 631 via an interface assembly (see e.g., FIG. 20) and a first outlet member 642. The vent assembly (not shown) can be operably coupled to the fluid machine 631 via the interface assembly (see e.g., FIG. 20) and a second outlet member 643.

[00147] While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, not limitation, and various changes in form and details may be made. Any portion of the systems, apparatus and/or methods described herein may be combined in any combination, except mutually exclusive combinations. The embodiments described herein can include various combinations and/or sub-combinations of the functions, components and/or features of the different embodiments described.

[00148] For example, although the gas extraction systems have been shown and described above as being used primarily in mining applications, in some embodiments, any of the systems shown and described above can be used to extract, combust and/or produce an indication of greenhouse gas emissions reduction from any source of gas. Such sources can include sources of gas associated with both active extraction (typically associated with a mining environment) and passive venting (typically associated with a gas and/or geological exploration operation). More particularly, such sources can include gob wells or other extraction wells associated with a mining operation, landfill vents, gas wells associated with gas or geological exploration or the like.

[00149] Similarly, although the description above specifically refers to the mining operation as being a coal mine, in other embodiments, the systems described herein can be used in conjunction with any mine. For example, in some embodiments, any of the system shown and described above can be used in conjunction with hard rock, metal and non-metal mines, such as, for example, trona mines.

[00150] Although the systems are described above as being used primarily to combust hydrocarbons, and more particularly methane gas, any of the systems described herein can be used to combust and/or measure the combustion of any suitable gas constituents in the extracted gas to effectuate a reduction in emissions. Such gas constituents can include, for example, any hydrocarbon and/or any volatile organic compound.

[00151] Although the control system as shown and described above for system 200 is shown as being located remotely from the gas pump and/or the incinerator, in other embodiments, a system can include a control system that is located on-site (i.e., adjacent or in close proximity to the gas pump and/or the incinerator). For example, in some embodiments, a system can include a control system that is housed within the same trailer as the remaining components of the system. [00152] For example, apparatus, systems, and methods discussed in relation to one gas extraction, incineration, and monitoring system can be applicable to any of the gas extraction, incineration, and monitoring systems shown and described herein. Furthermore, each feature disclosed in this specification may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[00153] Although the systems are described herein as being applicable for the combustion of methane gas, the systems described herein can be used in conjunction with any suitable gas flow. Such gas flows can include gas flows including any type of flammable gas, any type of greenhouse gas, a mixture of flammable gas and air, or a mixture of flammable gas and inert elements (or inerts) such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide.

[00154] Although fluid concentration sensor 508 is shown as being disposed within the inlet member 541 of the interface assembly 540, in some embodiments, the gas concentration sensor and associated instrumentation can be included within the measuring and monitoring system 591 of the control assembly 590. In such embodiments, the inlet member 541 can include a supply line and/or instrumentation tap through which a sample portion of the gas flow can be conveyed to the measuring and monitoring system.

[00155] In some embodiments, an incinerator, such as incinerator 653 can include a fan or fluid machine therein configured to increase the combustion performance of the incinerator. In this manner, the overall height of the incinerator (i.e., the height taken along the centerline CL) can be made small enough for the incinerator to fit onto the transportation platform when in the first position. In some embodiments, for example, an incinerator can include a turbulence generator (e.g., fans, protrusions within the flow path or the like) to improve the combustion efficiency therein.

[00156] Although the system 600 is shown and described as including an incinerator 653 that is movably coupled to the transportation platform 602, in other embodiments, the incinerator 653 can be removably coupled to the transportation platform 602.