If the reactor is drained and the aeration system is exposed for a short period of time (less than 4 weeks), the system shall be protected from foreign objects including but not limited to paint or weld splatter, falling objects, etc. If SDM saddle mounted diffusers are being installed during large temperature swings (20°-40°) The Wedges should be loosely installed prior to Start-Up.

A gray fabric tarp should be suspended above the aeration system approximately 6” (150 mm) if the ambient air temperature is above 100°F (40°C). When the ambient conditions drop below 40˚F (4˚C) plastic aeration components may become brittle, protect the system from falling objects and other impacts by covering the system with 4 feet of clean water. If temperatures drop below 32˚F, the water must be deep enough to prevent ice from contacting the aeration system. If water must be added to the aeration basin when ice is present, ensure that no aeration components are encased in ice, before proceeding. Do not attempt to break aeration components free of any ice in the aeration basin. If the aeration system is idle for an extended period of time (greater than 4 weeks), the system should be submerged in approximately 4 feet of clean water provided the ambient air temperature is greater than 32°F (0°C). If the ambient air temperature is below 32°F (0°C), the water level may need to be increased so that the ice layer does not contact the aeration system.

When reactivating a system where ice exists, operate the system at a minimum airflow to avoid movement of ice and maintain this airflow condition until the ice is no longer present. The water level should never be lowered if ice is present. The weight of the ice may damage the system.

Warning: Do not use any form of plastic to cover the aeration components. Plastic can create a hotter environment and/or fuse to the surface of the equipment.

It’s easy to improve aeration diffuser performance and efficiency while reducing your plant’s carbon footprint.

Diffusers are made to last a long time. Without regular cleaning; fouling may result in a loss of effectiveness of the aeration system. Symptoms of which may include permit violations, increased back pressure on your blowers with corresponding increase in energy consumption, and/or Dissolved Oxygen (DO) levels go down.

Make Diffuser Cleaning part of your yearly maintenance!

SiteWorks has the tools and the expertise to evaluate and clean your aeration system in a timely and cost effective manner. No need to dewater your tanks, or stop treatment—no downtime. Depending on the number of diffusers, proper diffuser cleaning can reduce energy cost by over 25%.

When standard cleaning methods do not produce desired results, inorganic scaling may be present and may require an alternate cleaning technique. Inorganic scaling is a granular mineral-like precipitate that can form on the membrane surface.

The foulant adhered to a membrane can be tested with a solution of muriatic acid (20° Baume Hydrochloric Acid, 31.45% by weight HCl) for reactivity. This may indicate the nature of the foulant and its propensity for chemical cleaning. Ensure that the air supply has been turned off from the diffusers being serviced. Afterwards, place a small amount of acid on the surface of the membrane where fouling is most prevalent. If the foulant is reactive to acid, this is indicative of inorganic fouling, such as calcium deposits, and acid cleaning is recommended. Otherwise, the foulant is typically organic and acid cleaning may not prove effective.

If it is determined that the foulant does respond to acid, the membrane may be cleaned with acid in addition to manual cleaning. This technique involves applying Muriatic Acid directly to the membrane surface after the manual cleaning procedure followed by rinsing with a low-pressure hose. In the case of ceramic diffusers, the acid is typically applied both on the surface and pumped through the diffuser using air.

Note: EDI can provide an acid injection system, upon request, for cleaning aeration systems without process interruptions. Contact EDI for more information.

Warning: Read all applicable SDS (Safety Data Sheets) carefully and follow all instructions given therein. Always have new users familiarize themselves with the SDS before handling chemicals. Wear personal protective equipment (including, but not limited to, rubber gloves, safety goggles, and other protective clothing) as required.

The diffuser membranes should be protected from chemicals that may be harmful to the material. If using a cleaning aid or other substance on or around the membranes, please contact EDI for chemical compatibility.