Quasaer Fine Bubble Aeration System
P 3 Ceramic1
P 5 CB Diffuser
P 6 Flexcap Diffuser Inst
Single Drop Difuser
Quasaer Fine Bubble Aeration System
P 3 Ceramic1
P 5 CB Diffuser
P 6 Flexcap Diffuser Inst
Single Drop Difuser

Diffused Aeration – Fine and Coarse Bubble Systems

    Our Diffused Aeration Systems are Simply the Best

    With over a decade of experience, Aquarius’ aeration systems are recognized for consistently meeting or exceeding customer expectations. For your next project, allow us to evaluate your application and recommend the best fine or coarse bubble aeration system solution based on the following:

    • Application Design Support
    • Efficient and Cost Effective System Design
    • Proven Performance System Selection
    • Unequaled Product Quality
    • System Reliability Resulting in Lowest Cost of Ownership
    Category:

    Design Basics/Applications

    Aquarius Design

    Aquarius' experience and installed system performance exhibits our commitment to working closely with our customers to design the best aeration / mixing system for every application. The Design Request Questionnaire provides our engineers with critical information to ensure our recommendations meet your performance criteria and result in a successful installation.


    Request A Design

    Design parameters critical for determining the most efficient system to meet your aeration and mixing objectives include:

    • Type of Diffused Aeration System
    • Basin / Tank Sizing
    • Number of Diffusers and Aeration Grid Configuration
    • Airflow and Pressure Requirements

    Each aeration system design includes design calculations, performance data, specifications, layout drawings and system support.

    An Aquarius QUANTAER® Diffused Aeration System can be designed for installation in concrete (poured in place or pre-cast), steel or fiberglass tanks / basins. Attention to ease of installation, low maintenance and reduced replacement costs are considerations in selecting the right solution to meet or exceed performance expectations.

    Each municipal and industrial application requires a specific design. We understand that delivering dissolved oxygen and mixing energy into a unit process takes more than just adding diffusers. It requires application experience to ensure the most efficient and performance proven design is recommended.

    Aquarius Fine and Coarse Bubble Aeration Systems are utilized in a number of treatment unit processes including:

    • Aerated Equalization
    • Aeration Basins
    • Post Aeration
    • Sludge Holding
    • Aerobic Digester
    • Influent Channel
    • Splitter Box
    • Blending
    • Swing Zone
    • Chemical Dosing
    Typical Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant
    Typical Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant

    Visit Our Project Gallery and view a variety of Customer Solutions we have provided over the last decade.

    Quantaer® Fine Bubble

    QUANTAER® FINE BUBBLE AERATION SYSTEMS

    Fine Bubble Air Delivery System

    We understand the value of experience in the design of fine bubble diffused aeration systems. Although diffuser selection is critical, equally important is the design of the air delivery system. Combining Aquarius' proprietary air distribution system manufacturing process with energy efficient disc diffusers differentiates us from every other diffused aeration system in the industry today.

    We specialize in two types of 9 inch disc diffusers:

    • EPDM Standard and Low Pressure Membrane Disc Diffusers
    • Ceramic Disc Diffusers

    Aquarius strives to be the best in class by setting design standards that exceed those of other suppliers of diffused aeration components / systems.

    Every diffused aeration system requires a reliable air distribution grid. Aquarius' investment in an automated manufacturing process ensures consistent, quality products. Each component has been engineered by Aquarius' engineers. Our diffuser holders are solvent welded and ultrasonically staked to the air distributor piping, resulting in a robust and reliable connection that prevents bond failure. The addition of our proprietary threaded union joint for piping connections with infinite angular rotation reduces joint stress and prevents breakage and leakage commonly found with other diffused aeration systems. We confidently guarantee our aeration system.

    The Aquarius Quantaer® aeration grid design includes:

    • High Performance Piping and Fixed Joint Design for Durability in all Environmental Conditions
    • Proprietary Threading and Retaining Mechanism for Increased Joint Reliability
    • Greater Thread Profile, Thicker Retainer Ring and Four-Sided O-ring Compression Vs Comparable Two-Sided Compression
    • Anti-Rotational Joints with Infinite Angular Rotation Reduces Joint Stress Decreasing Chances of Leaking and Failure
    • Diffuser Holder Manufacturing Process Incorporates Factory Solvent and Ultrasonic Welded Connections
    • A Mechanical Bond Stronger than the Pipe
    • No Sealing Gaskets for Field Installation
    • Field Installation of the Holder Not Required
    • Air Purge System
    • Removal of Condensation Build Up in Piping Available for Manual or Continuous Operation
    Fine Bubble Video Screenshot

    Materials of Construction

    • Dropleg: 304L or 316L Stainless Steel
    • Manifold: Stainless Steel or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) to Prevent Ultraviolet (UV) degradation
    • Air Distributors: PVC
    • Supports and Anchors: 304 or 316 Stainless Steel
    • Gaskets: Styrene-butadiene (SBR) Natural Rubber, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) or Neoprene
    P 2 Diffuser Holder
    A Mechanical Bond Stronger than Pipe
    P3 Piping System
    Support System

    Constructed of an advanced EPDM membrane blend with less than 10% extractable oils results in longer life and energy efficiency. The proprietary perforation pattern is designed for increased oxygen transfer efficiencies and energy savings. Improved air distribution allows for few diffusers without sacrificing performance. The integral check valve prevents back flow during intermittent operation.

    EPDM standard disc diffusers are ideal for activated sludge aeration, swing zones in biological nutrient removal applications, and mixing applications.

    Operating Range

    • Configuration: 9-inch Disc
    • Normal Airflow Per Diffuser: 0.5 to 4 SCFM
    • Design Airflow Per Diffuser: 1.25 to 1.5 SCFM
    • Typical Standard Oxygen Transfer Efficiencies Over 2 Percent Per Foot of Submergence
    Diffuser And Diffuser Holder New
    Diffuser and Diffuser Holder

    Constructed of the same advanced EPDM membrane blend as the Standard Membrane Disc Diffuser, the Low Pressure Disc Diffuser provides a unique perforation pattern with lower headloss as the membrane gradually expands when air flow increases. EPDM Low Pressure Membrane Disc Diffusers are capable of operating over a wide range of air flows while maintaining consistent oxygen transfer efficiency. The same effective integral check valve utilized on the Standard Membrane Disc Diffuser prevents back-flow and is a great choice for intermittent operation.

    The EPDM Low Pressure Disc Diffuser is suitable for heavy solids, aerated mixing, and industrial applications requiring high air flow rates and can be utilized in EPDM Standard Membrane Disc Diffuser applications to meet lower headloss requirements.

    Operating Range

    • Configuration: 9-inch Disc
    • Normal Airflow Per Diffuser: 0.5 to 10 SCFM
    • Design Airflow Per Diffuser: 3 SCFM
    • Typical Standard Oxygen Transfer Efficiencies Over 2 Percent Per Foot of Submergence

    With the Quantaer™ Membrane Disc Diffuser (Standard or Low Pressure), Customers Experience:

    • Higher Oxygen Transfer Efficiencies Compared to Other EPDM Membrane Diffusers
    • Longer Effective Membrane Life and Chemical Stability
    • Reduced Energy Costs
    • Lower Maintenance and Less Frequent Replacement
    • Typical Life Expectancy of 7-10 years
    Fine Bubble Membrane
    Diffuser and Diffuser Holder
    EPDM LP Membrane Diffuser
    EPDM LP Membrane Diffuser

    The Aquarius Ceramic Disc Diffuser is constructed of high temperature composite alumina oxide ceramic that is thermally bonded at high temperatures. The ceramic disc is highly resistant to harsh chemicals often found in industrial wastewater. The density of the ceramic disc across the diffuser varies with the contour profile and peripheral channel, ensuring uniform air bubble distribution over the entire diffuser compared to flat ceramic diffusers. The positive seal created by the compression of the O-ring seat prevents short circuiting near the retainer ring and minimizes diffuser fouling. To maintain peak efficiency clean in place monitoring and cleaning systems are available.

    The Ceramic Disc Diffuser is suitable for activated sludge aeration and dependable performance in aggressive industrial wastewater and is recommended for continuous operation over a range of air flows.

    Operating Range

    • Configuration: 9-inch Disc
    • Normal Airflow Per Diffuser: 0.5 to 4 SCFM
    • Design Airflow Per Diffuser: 1.25 to 1.5 SCFM
    • Typical Standard Oxygen Transfer Efficiencies Over 2 Percent Per Foot of Submergence
    P 4 Ceramic
    Diffuser and Diffuser Holder
    Ceramic Diffuser Pic (2)
    Ceramic Diffuser

    With the Quantaer Ceramic Disc Diffuser, Customers Experience:

    • Reduced Operating Costs
    • Low Maintenance Requirements
    • Performance Recovery through In-Site Monitoring and Cleaning
    • Typical Life Expectancy of 20 years

    The Aquarius retrievable aeration grid is a solution for installations where the basin / tank cannot be taken out of service.

    Retrievable aeration grids include:

    • The Same Reliable Aeration Delivery System and Grid Design Utilized in our Fine and Coarse Bubble Diffused Aeration Systems
    • EPDM Fine Bubble or Ceramic Diffuser as Required
    • Lifting Frame and Ballast Designed for Each Application
    • Rigid Four Point Lifting Mechanism and Hook to Engage Crane

    A minimum of two grids per basin are recommended for continuous operation when one grid is out of service. Don't hesitate to consider this solution from Aquarius based on our proven performance, and design integrity.

    Installation (6)
    Retrievable Fine Bubble Aeration Grid

    Coarse Bubble

    COARSE BUBBLE AERATION SYSTEMS

    Making The Right Choice

    Aquarius has the knowledge and experience in design, application and operation of aeration systems to assist you in the evaluation and selection of the right coarse bubble diffused aeration system for your application.

    Whether it is our Wide Band Stainless Steel, Flexcap™, or Single Drop diffuser system, you can rely on us to recommend a system which will meet or exceed performance expectations.

    Customers rely on Aquarius for:

    • Process and Application Support
    • Mechanical Design Expertise
    • Proven Performance
    • Made in the USA Quality
    For your next project choose an Aquarius Coarse Bubble Aeration System…

    The wide band stainless steel diffuser was first developed in the 1960's and has stood the test of time as the most versatile coarse bubble diffuser available. The low headloss wide band diffuser operates over a wide range of air flow rates. Its stainless steel design is suitable for harsh wastewater environments and full length bottom deflector prevents diffuser fouling.

    This diffuser is designed for a wide range of applications including activated sludge, aerated mixing and aerobic digestion.

    Operating Range

    • Configuration: 12-inch and 24-inch Long
    • Normal Airflow Per Diffuser: 5 to 50 SCFM
    • Mixing Design: 20-30 SCFM Per 1,000 Cubic Feet of Volume

    Materials of Construction

    • 304L and 316L, 20 gauge Stainless Steel Diffuser Body
    • Passivated Welded Assemblies Using Full Immersion Method
    • 304 and 316 Stainless Steel Aeration Delivery System
    Coarse Bubble Wide Band
    Wide Band Diffuser System

    The Flexcap™ diffuser solution is designed for high solids applications where fixed orifice coarse bubble or fine bubble diffusers are prone to plugging. The diaphragm check valve diffuser releases air from its underside reducing plugging. The diffuser cap seals tightly to the base of the diffuser preventing any backflow into the diffuser or piping when the air is shut off. Installation is quick and easy by threading the NPT diffuser connection to the factory installed threaded bosses on the crown of the piping system.

    This diffuser is designed for applications including activated sludge, aerated mixing and aerobic digestion.

    Operating Range

    • Normal Airflow Per Diffuser: 3 to 15 SCFM
    • Mixing Design: 20-30 SCFM Per 1,000 Cubic Feet of Volume

    Materials of Construction

    • EPDM Diffuser With Polypropylene Base
    • Aeration Delivery System Available in PVC, 304L or 316L Stainless Steel
    Flexcap™ Diffuser
    Flexcap™ Diffuser
    Flexcap™ Aeration Delivery System
    Flexcap™ Aeration Delivery System

    The single drop diffuser is designed for maintenance without dewatering the tank/basin. No small orifices or piping restrictions are located below the liquid level to prevent plugging. Designed for a wide-range of airflow based on diffuser diameter.

    This diffuser is designed for applications including mechanically thickened aerobic digesters, sludge holding and heavy solids.

    Design Criteria

    • Diameter: 3/4, 1, 1 1/2 and 2-Inch Diameter
    • Mixing Design: 20-30 SCFM Per 1,000 Cubic Feet of Volume

    Materials of Construction

    • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Diffuser Assembly
    • 304, 316 Stainless Steel or Galvanized Steel Aeration Delivery System
    P 9 SD Diff
    Single Drop Diffuser
    Single Drop Diffuser Aeration Delivery System
    Single Drop Diffuser Aeration Delivery System

    Monitoring & Cleaning

    MONITORING & CLEANING FINE BUBBLE AERATION SYSTEMS

    Pressure Monitoring
    A customer's decision to monitor or incorporate a cleaning system into a fine bubble aeration system is a worthwhile investment for maintaining peak performance and extending the life of the system.The following benefits result when one or both are incorporated:
    • Savings on Maintenance Costs
    • Reduced Operating Cost by Maintaining Diffuser Performance
    • Prevention of Premature Fouling and Failure of Diffuser Discs
    Aquarius designs and manufactures aeration system pressure monitoring systems for our fine bubble diffused aeration solutions. The pressure monitoring system provides:
    • Determination of Airflow Rate Per Aeration Grid
    • Monitoring Diffuser Pressure Changes Due to Fouling or Aging
    • Trending of Pressure Changes for Scheduling Preventative Maintenance
    The diffused aeration pressure monitoring system is optional and can be provided on every aeration grid or select aeration grids. Aquarius will work with you to determine if pressure monitoring is recommended for your fine bubble diffused aeration system.
    P 1 Pressure Mon
    Basin Mounted Pressure Monitoring
    P 2 Pressure Mon Panel
    Pressure Monitoring Panel

    Cleaning Our Fine Bubble Aeration System is Simple

    The Aquarius chemical cleaning system is designed to maintain like new performance of fine bubble membrane and ceramic disc diffused aeration systems. The cleaning system operates without the need to interrupt the process or dewater the aeration basins. The system is easy to use, safe and effective.When diffuser cleaning is required due to an increase in operating pressure or a decrease in system efficiency, a chemical cleaning agent is introduced into the process air downstream of an individual aeration grid drop pipe. The process air distributes the cleaning chemical throughout the aeration grid to the diffusers.The cleaning chemical permeates the diffusers where it oxidizes mineral fouling and sloughs biological fouling from the diffuser surface. The Aquarius chemical cleaning system is most effective when used regularly as part of the plant's preventative maintenance procedures.
    P 3 CIP Controls
    Control Panel
    P 4 In Basin Pressure Mon And Cleaning
    Monitoring and Cleaning Installation

    Combining Aeration / Mixing

    COMBINING AERATION WITH MIXERS

    Applications where independent mixers are utilized in combination with diffused aeration systems require knowledge and experience with several types of mixers.Proper application requires a thorough understanding of the fluid dynamics and forces of the various mixer styles to ensure the design and combined performance meet your application needs.Aquarius Aeration Systems have been utilized with the following types of independent mixers:
    • Down Draft Mixer
    • Jet Mixer
    • Parabolic Mixer
    • Horizontal Flow Mixer
    1 Down Draft Mixer
    Down Draft Mixing
    Jet Mixing Close Up
    Jet Mixing
    4 Parabolic Mixer
    Parabolic Mixing
    Horizontal Flow Close Up
    Horizontal Flow Mixing

    System Upgrades

    SAVINGS WITH SYSTEM UPGRADES

    Upgrading mechanical or coarse bubble aeration systems to the QUANTAER® Fine Bubble Aeration Systems yields significant energy savings for our customers. Wastewater treatment plants that have upgraded have experienced 40 to 60 percent energy savings.

    Aeration systems commonly replaced to increase efficiency include:

    • Mechanical Aerators
    • Jet Aerators
    • Disc Aerators
    • Rotor Aerators

    Customers with existing fine bubble diffused aeration systems can upgrade to a Quantaer® Fine Bubble System to achieve:

    • Better Performance with the Most Efficient Diffusers and Grid Design
    • Increased Oxygen Transfer Capacity to Address Higher Loadings with Additional Air Distributors and Diffusers
    • Reduced Maintenance Costs with Robust, Quality Equipment Built to Last
    • On/Off operations by Replacing Ceramic Diffusers with Membrane Diffusers
    Mechanical Aerator Replacement
    Mechanical Aerator Replacement

    Project Gallery

    Resources

    Translate »