Sydney wastewater aeration involves circulating air through, mixing, and dissolving it in wastewater. It brings air and water into contact to remove dissolved gases such as hydrogen sulphide and carbon dioxide to oxidise dissolved metals, including VOCs and metals.

Aeration allows the aerobic degradation of pollutants in wastewater, an important part of biological wastewater treatment. This process is the first major process in treatment plants and happens in the secondary treatment processes. An evenly distributed supply of oxygen in a treatment system is essential for the effective treatment of wastewater for fostering microbial growth.

When is aeration used?

In industrial and municipal wastewater treatment, aeration is part of the secondary wastewater treatment process. Activated sludge is the most common option when it comes to the secondary treatment of wastewater.

Aeration in activated sludge is typically based on pumping air into a lake or lagoon, which promotes microbial growth in wastewater. The microbes then feed on the organic material and form flocks that easily settle out. After settling bacteria and forming the activated sludge during treatment, flocks are then recirculated back into the wastewater aeration basin to increase the decomposition rate.

The importance of aeration in wastewater treatment

Aeration is one of the most important components in treatment systems. Well-designed systems that distribute oxygen evenly are critical components of the activated sludge treatment system. Enough supply of oxygen is important to achieve economically viable and effective treatment. Wastewater aeration solutions are important because they are highly effective, great for the environment and economically viable. Through a proactive approach and proper maintenance, waste facilities can protect the environment and offer a practical solution for both large cities and small towns.

The benefits of aeration

Aeration uses natural microorganisms from the water to get rid of pollutants. The chemicals used in other treatment systems can be very harmful when used in high volumes. However, the aeration process uses microorganisms found in wastewater.

The right aeration equipment

The industry is full of different kinds of aerators. The most common aerators are surface aerators. These types of aerators float on the surface of the pond, lagoon or basin they are aerating. They could be slow or fast splashers, draft tubes or rotating brush types. You can also find submersible lagoon aerators that could be submersible pumps that have a draft tube.

What is common to both these types of aerators is that they can’t be easily accessible by operators for repair and maintenance. They should be accessed by lifting devices, personnel rowing to them, tether systems, or using expensive infrastructure. This adds to the overall maintenance costs and reduces the willingness to perform maintenance

Choosing the right aeration system

While there are a lot of Sydney wastewater aeration systems, you should choose an aerator that is appropriate for your use. You should choose the right size. Also, you need to know how your aerator is powered. Do you want an oil-powered aerator or an electric aerator? Another important factor to consider is the environmental impact of the aerator. You should be environmentally conscious when choosing an aerator.