ARS | Publication request: In-tank aeration, a necessary compliment of loaded systems in an airlift recirculating aquaculture system

Submitted to: Book of Abstracts Aquaculture America
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: December 1, 2007
Publication Date: February 9, 2008
Citation: Pfeiffer, T.J., Hearn, R.A., Christina, C.M., Malone, R.F. 2008. In-tank aeration, a necessary compliment of loaded systems in an airlift recirculating aquaculture system [abstract]. Book of Abstracts Aquaculture America 2008: Beyond Magic-Competing in World Markets.p.293.

Technical Abstract: Water treatment components in recirculating aquaculture systems in generally address solids removal, nitrification, circulation, aeration, and degasification. Airlift pumps in a recirculating aquaculture system can address water circulation, aeration, and degasification. Recent data indicates oxygen mass transfer rates ranging from 50 to 200 g oxygen per hour depending on the airlift pipe diameters, water flow rates, gas to liquid ratios, salinity, and lift to submergence ratios. Although airlift units may be able to support broodstock holding systems, additional in tank aeration or supplemental oxygenation is needed for systems with greater fish densities and higher feed loading rates. Oxygen transfer rates for regular pore air stones and diffuser hoses were determined at air flow rates ranging from 2 to 12 Lpm. Oxygen transfer rates increased with increasing air flow and ranged from 100 g per hour at 2 Lpm air flow to over 260 g oxygen per hour for air flows at 12 Lpm through the air stones. Oxygen transfer rates were greater for diffuser tubing than air stones but required greater air pressure to overcome the head loss limitations a water depth greater than 2 feet.