Floating surface aerators

Types of floating surface aerators

A floating surface aerator is an instrumental device used to increase the oxygen levels within a liquid by creating movement on its surface. Generally, floating surface aerators are classified into three main categories based on their specific features and functional principles.

• Genera type: This is a popular surface aerator that uses the principle of gravity to function effectively. Typically, it comes in a large disc-like structure that floats on the liquid surface. The floating device rotates, which releases a substantial amount of oxygen into the water as it sucks the air from the atmosphere and transmits it into the liquid. A generational surface aerator is simple and efficient, making it ideal for treating large volumes of liquid. It is frequently used in wastewater lagoons, sewage treatment ponds, and large storage tanks.
• A solar surface aerator works the same way as a traditional surface aerator, only that it uses solar energy to function effectively. It comes in a unique design that allows it to collect solar energy directly from sunlight and convert it into electrical energy to power the aerator. The solar panel can be mounted on the surface or integrated into the aerator's design. A solar surface aerator works independently of the grid, making it suitable for remote locations. Additionally, it has lower operational costs and environmental impacts compared to other types of surface aerators that depend on fuels or electricity from the power grid.
• The wind surface aerator is not dependent on power from the electricity grid to create movement on the liquid surface. It uses wind energy to generate motion and transfer oxygen into the liquid. A wind surface aerator converts mechanical energy from the wind into electrical power through a wind turbine. The wind turbine can be integrated into the surface aerator or mounted independently. The floating device spins, and the liquid draws the oxygen from the atmosphere and transmits it into the water.

Specifications and Maintenance of Floating Surface Aerators

Specifications

• Blade Diameter: Typical aerator blade diameters vary depending on the specific usage or purpose. Larger ones have about 36” to 72” blade diameters, while smaller ones have 12” to 24” blade diameters.
• Power Requirement: Floating surface aerators require around 1 to 20 horsepower (HP) for their motor or engine. The power requirement depends on the size of the aerator, its design, and the specific use or purpose for which it is meant to be used.
• Aeration Rate: Floating surface aerators have different aeration rates based on their designs and purposes. For instance, a large surface aerator used in a wastewater treatment facility may have an aeration rate of 8,000 liters per minute as its average aeration capacity. Another smaller aerator may have an aeration rate of 200 liters per minute.

Maintenance

• Regular inspection: Regular inspection of the aerator must be carried out to see for signs of damage, wear or tear. It's important to immediately identify and rectify any issues that may arise with the floating aerator surface aerator's part to prevent more severe complications.
• Cleaning: The floating surface aerator must be cleaned regularly to remove any algae, debris, or buildup that may affect the unit's performance. This can be done by using a pressure washer or any appropriate cleaning method.
• Lubrication: The moving parts of the floating surface aerator, like bearings or motor drives, should be regularly lubricated to prevent excess friction which may cause sticking. Regular lubrication will also prevent damage and wear, and prolong the unit's operating lifespan.
• Motor maintenance: If the floating surface aerator has a motor, whether it's gasoline, diesel, or electric, it may require some regular maintenance tasks, such as filter replacement, oil change, and motor inspection.
• Float maintenance: The floats of a floating aerator surface-type should be inspected regularly for damage or leaks. Any floats with damages or leaks should be repaired promptly to ensure that the aerator remains stable and buoyant.
• Community disposal compliance: If the floating surface aerator is used in a public water body, businesses or individual users must comply with community disposal standards to avoid any risk of transferring harmful organisms to other water bodies.

Scenarios of floating surface aerators

• Wastewater treatment plants:

  Surface floating aerators are ideal in wastewater treatment plants. They improve the quality of the effluent by fostering the breakdown of organic matter. The surface aerators do this by enhancing the decomposition of solid waste through microbial action. They also increase the algae growth in the wastewater when it is treated. Thus, giving it the quality of treated effluent that can be used for other applications.

• Ponds and lakes:

  Aerators are excellent in ponds and lakes that are becoming stagnant due to lack of movement of water. They improve the quality of oxygen in the water column. Higher concentration of oxygen in water not only improves the quality of the aquatic life but also reduces foul odours that come from decomposition of matter at the bottom.

• Industrial effluent treatment:

  Some industries like pulp and paper, pharmaceuticals, textiles among others release their waste into a common effluent treatment system. Here, surface floating aerators come in handy by treating the industrial effluent. They change the chemical properties especially pH of the effluent so it can be used for irrigation or discharge safely into a water body.

• Fish farming:

  Aquaculture or fish farming requires a suitable level of oxygen for fish and other aquatic organisms to thrive and survive. Surface floating aerators assist by increasing oxygen levels in fish farming ponds. This allows business owners to rear a larger number of fish and improve their survival rates.

• Mining operations:

  Some mining operations excavate minerals from under the water table. Therefore, the mining operations may create some water bodies. The water may become stagnant and water quality may deteriorate. Floating surface aerators can be used to improve the quality of water by reducing the levels of contaminants so that it is safe to use. It can also prevent the spread of contamination to other water bodies.

• Water storage reservoirs:

  Surface floating aerators are used in water reservoirs that are open. This is because they are vulnerable to evaporation and contamination. The aerators reduce the rate of these risks besides keeping the water quality suitable for consumption.

How to Choose Floating Surface Aerators

Both floating surface aerators and rear-moving float aerators, which are designed to increase the oxygen content of the water, are available in a variety of sizes. Consequently, there are a number of things to think about when picking a surface aerator for the needs of the specific body of water.

• The Purpose of the Pond or Lake

  Surface aerators can be chosen based on the objective for which the pond or lake is being managed. For critical oxygen needs, such as fish survival or the prevention of sediment oxygen depletion, a high-capacity aerator may be required. A modest-capacity aerator could be enough if there are no serious issues but only a desire to improve the water's quality.

• Aerator Sizes and Capabilities

  Surface aerators come in a variety of sizes and capabilities, all of which are created to meet the demands of different bodies of water. It is essential to look into the specifications of various aerators and choose one that works well for the size and depth of the pond or lake. The aerator should easily cover the entire surface area of the water body.

• Energy Consumption and Efficiency

  Choosing a surface aerator with a high energy efficiency rating may help lower operating costs and environmental impact, as these devices consume varying amounts of electricity depending on their size and power.

• Outdoor Durability

  Since surface aerators’ operation is directly under the influence of outdoor weather, it is crucial to install them with the appropriate weather resistance, ensuring that they will not be damaged by a variety of outdoor climatic factors, such as high temperatures, storms, or ultraviolet rays, and thus maintaining their stable operation.

• Installation and Maintenance Cost

  While the initial cost of an aerator may be of concern, the long-term expenses associated with its maintenance and installation should also be factored in. Surface aerators that are easier to maintain and install can help to reduce ongoing costs over time.

• Noise Levels

  The noise level of the surface aerator should be considered, as it can have an impact on the surrounding environment and communities. Choosing a low-noise aerator can minimize disturbance to residents and wildlife.

Floating surface aerators FAQ

Q1: What are the main characteristics of floating aerators?

A1: High adaptability, high stability, low energy consumption, low noise, convenient management, and maintenance.

Q2: Are surface aerators the same as surface mixers?

A2: No. While both surface aerators and surface mixers are designed to be placed at the surface of a liquid, their purposes are different. Surface mixers aim to homogenize liquids by mixing them, while surface aerators focus on increasing the oxygen levels of the liquid.

Q3: When should a surface aerator be used over a submerged aerator?

A3: Surface aerators provide rapid evaporation benefits and are cost-effective for deep tanks. Conversely, submerged aerators enhance microbial activity at the tank's bottom and reduce surface disruption.

Q4: What is the expected lifespan of a floating aerator?

A4: High-quality floating aerators can last 8 to 10 years with regular maintenance.