Aeration Processes

Aeration is a unit process in which air and water are brought into intimate contact. Turbulence increases the aeration of flowing streams. In industrial processes, water flow is usually directed countercurrent to atmospheric or forced-draft air flow. The contact time and the ratio of air to water must be sufficient for effective removal of the unwanted gas.

Aeration as a water treatment practice is used for the following operations:

• Carbon dioxide reduction (decarbonation)
• Oxidation of iron and manganese found in many well waters (oxidation tower)
• Ammonia and hydrogen sulfide reduction (stripping)
• Aeration is also an effective method of bacteria control

Types of Aeration are:

• Coke tray aerators
• Wood or plastic slat tray aerators
• Forced draft water-fall aerators
• Air Diffusion Aerators