Instream Aerators for Polluted Rivers

Field tests and performance analysis of instream aeration equipment on the Passaic River showed mechanical aerators more efficient than diffusers. Transfer rate varied markedly with oxygen deficit, temperature, and velocity of flow. Unexpectedly, rate of deoxygenation increased greatly downstream of the aerators. Cost estimates were made of typical systems. A systems analysis, based upon the principle of BOD mass balance analysis, showed that the aerators would achieve a given dissolved oxygen level at about one-fourth the cost of advanced waste treatment.