Pro-Air Wet Well Aeration Systems

Reduces: Grease Buildup, Odors, Corrosion, Pump, Clogs

Envirep’s Wet Well Aeration Systems offer an effective low cost, energy efficient solution for aerating and mixing the wet well.

Sewage wet wells are designed to provide adequate storage volume of wastewater to prevent short cycling of pumps and motors. Storage of raw wastewater in a wet well poses several problems such as odors, grease buildup, corrosion and accumulation of rags and debris.

The Pro-Air systems include a regenerative blower, intake filter, pressure relief valve, control panel and piping in the wet well. The control panel includes a cycle timer to adjust blower operating time and is interlocked to the pump starters to turn the blower off when a pump is operating. The system can be provided on a floor-mount base, on a wall-mount base, or in a fiberglass clamshell enclosure for outdoor mounting.

Break Up Grease

Grease buildup in wet wells is a common problem that can lead to a number of issues, including foul odors, interference with level control systems, and increased pump clogging. Aeration and mixing are effective strategies for preventing grease buildup and maintaining a clean and efficient wet well.

Grease, which consists of fats, oils, and greases (FOGs), is often discharged into the wastewater system from residential and commercial sources. When it enters the wet well, it tends to float on the surface or accumulate on the sides and bottom, forming a thick layer known as a "grease ball."

Aeration and mixing are effective strategies for preventing grease buildup and maintaining a clean wet well. By introducing air into the wastewater, aeration creates turbulence and circulation, which helps to:

Keep Grease in Suspension: The agitation from aeration prevents grease from accumulating on the surface or sides of the wet well. Instead, it keeps the grease dispersed throughout the wastewater, making it more likely to be pumped out with the flow.

Break Down Grease: Aeration can also help to break down grease into smaller particles, making it easier to pump and treat.

Promote Aerobic Conditions: Aeration increases the dissolved oxygen (DO) content of the wastewater, creating an aerobic environment that inhibits the growth of anaerobic bacteria and reduces odor production.

By effectively preventing grease buildup, aeration and mixing can eliminate the need for regular vacuum truck cleaning of the wet well. This not only saves time and money but also reduces the environmental impact associated with vacuum truck operations.

Odor Control

Wet well aeration is a proven method for mitigating odors in wastewater collection systems. By increasing the dissolved oxygen (DO) levels in the wastewater, aeration creates an aerobic environment that inhibits the growth of anaerobic bacteria, which are responsible for producing foul-smelling compounds like hydrogen sulfide (H2S).

Hydrogen sulfide, often referred to as "sewer gas," is a byproduct of anaerobic bacterial activity. It has a characteristic rotten egg smell and can be highly corrosive to infrastructure materials. Aeration helps to prevent the formation of H2S by promoting the growth of aerobic bacteria, which consume oxygen and outcompete anaerobic bacteria for nutrients.

In addition to reducing H2S levels, aeration can also help to oxidize other odorous compounds, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and mercaptans. This oxidation process converts these compounds into less odorous or odorless substances, further improving air quality around the wet well and force main.

By implementing wet well aeration, wastewater facilities can significantly reduce odor emissions, improving the quality of life for nearby communities and reducing complaints from residents and businesses.

Reduce Corrosion

Wet well aeration is a highly effective method for mitigating corrosion in wastewater collection systems. By introducing oxygen into the wastewater, aeration creates an aerobic environment that inhibits the growth of anaerobic bacteria. These anaerobic bacteria thrive in oxygen-deprived conditions and produce hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as a byproduct of their metabolic processes.

Hydrogen sulfide is a highly corrosive gas that can react with moisture to form sulfuric acid. This acidic environment accelerates the corrosion of metal components within the wet well and force main, such as pipes, pumps, and valves. The resulting corrosion can lead to leaks, reduced flow capacity, and ultimately, costly repairs or even system failures.

By preventing the growth of anaerobic bacteria and the production of hydrogen sulfide, aeration significantly reduces the risk of corrosion. This not only extends the lifespan of infrastructure components but also improves system reliability and reduces maintenance costs.

In summary, wet well aeration is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly strategy for mitigating corrosion in wastewater collection systems. By creating an aerobic environment and preventing the formation of corrosive compounds, aeration helps to protect infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the long-term sustainability of wastewater treatment operations.

Cut Down on Pump Clogs

Wet well aeration plays a crucial role in preventing pump clogs by creating a dynamic environment that disrupts the settling and accumulation of solids, including rags and wipes. The introduction of air into the wastewater within the wet well generates turbulence and circulation. This constant movement prevents solids from settling at the bottom of the well, where they can accumulate and obstruct the pump intake.

By keeping the solids suspended in the wastewater, aeration ensures that they are more evenly distributed and more likely to be pumped out along with the flow. This not only reduces the risk of pump clogs but also minimizes the need for manual cleaning of the wet well, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Additionally, aeration can help to break down some of the solids, such as grease and fats, making them easier to pump and reducing the overall volume of material that needs to be handled by the wastewater treatment plant.

In summary, wet well aeration is a valuable strategy for improving the performance and reliability of wastewater pumping systems. By preventing pump clogs and reducing the need for manual cleaning, aeration contributes to a more efficient and cost-effective wastewater treatment process.