Client
Location
Heidelberg Materials
Edmonton, Alberta
Year
2024
Project Summary
Our team installed a fine bubble aeration system at a 6.5-acre process pond for a cement plant to tackle persistent odour issues. Over the preceding six months, we collaborated closely with the client, conducting extensive water sampling and consultations to understand the problem. Our biologists identified sulfur bacteria contributing to unpleasant smells as well as low oxygen levels. Based on these findings, we designed and implemented a turnkey solution that includes 12 Can-Air Mega diffusers. This compact and highly efficient system uses 2 HP providing a total of 11.8 CFM at operation pressures. Our team continues to work with the client to monitor the system's performance.
Project Objective
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Improve dissolved oxygen (DO) to reduce odours.
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Maintain DO levels at or above 2.0 mg/L.
Planned Solutions
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After multiple site visits and water sampling, our team designed this system to improve the oxygen levels in the pond and reduce subsequent odours.
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To address possible low water levels in the fall/winter, we installed additional weights along the insulated airline to prevent the risk of ice effects on the line.
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Depth measuring technology was used to find equal depths to place pairs of diffusers to make sure they performed evenly.
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Our installation team is equipped with proper water safety training and PPE to safely work on more challenging sites. A rope and custom walk-way was constructed out of belting material to allow our team to safely enter and exit the pond.
Timeline
Consulting & Design: Fall/Winter 2023
Installation: Summer 2024
Challenges
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Fluctuating water levels:
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The water level within the pond fluctuates greatly, with a maximum design depth of 8m and an actual installation depth ranging from 3.5 - 5.0 m. Installation at varying depths provides challenges for equal air distribution. Deeper depths also increase system efficiencies.
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Water turbidity:
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The large cement plant uses the pond water for its cooling process and continuously circulates the water to and from the pond. The used water is returned to the pond multiple times per day at unknown flow rates. The water entering the pond is very visibly turbid with suspended inorganic cement particles. These particulates may result in more frequent diffuser rebuilds.
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Limited Pond Access
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A very steep pond slope with limited access made bringing equipment to the pond very challenging for our staff.
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Methods
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Install 12 Can-Air Mega diffusers with float kits and custom lengths of AquaTube airline
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Install four 1/2 HP CA-150 High Flow compressors (total system HP= 2; total system CFM @ 10 PSI= 11.8)
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Supply a four 3-way manifolds for easy operation
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Install insulated airline for seamless winter operation
Results
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The client will continue to monitor the results with the system in operation.
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