Aerators
Aerators
Aerators are used on wastewater treatment plants to pump air into the wastewater in the aeration section of the tank. The air allows aerobic bacteria to grow and multiply. Too little air will result in too little aerobic bacteria. Conversely, too much air will result in too much aerobic bacteria. In either case, odor at the discharge point will occur. As you can see, a proper balance between the volume, the aeration compartment holds, the amount of solids (B.O.D.) in the wastewater, and the amount of air (LPM) pumped into the wastewater is essential.
What most people understand is that, for example, a 3 bedroom home requires a 500 GPD treatment plant with a 60 LPM aerator. They are not taking into account the B.O.D. They are also not taking into account that a 60 LPM aerator does not necessarily pump 60 litres of air. The amount of air that is actually pumped by an aerator at a given pressure varies between manufacturers. Below, you will find information showing the amount of air output. At specific pressures, you will need a pressure gauge to find out what pressure your treatment plant is operating at. Failure to make this check could result in damage and a short life for you new aerator. If your maintenance provider is not making this check, he is not providing you with quality service. After all, if your aerator fails prematurely, something caused it to fail!
What Causes High Pressure?
- A crimped pipe that runs between the aerator and the treatment tank
- High sludge level in the tank
- Air diffuser stopped up
What Causes Low Pressure?
- The alarm will sound during low air pressure
- Aerator diaphragm blown
- The pipe that runs from the aerator to the treatment tank is pulled loose at a joint or connection
- No water in the tank or not enough water in the tank
- The alarm air float has become unseated