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VFDs Can Help Reduce Aeration Basin Energy Costs
December 13, 2006
•Article: VFDs Can Help Reduce Aeration Basin Energy Costs
The cost of aeration accounts for approximately 50-60% of the fixed energy expenditures in a wastewater plant. Controlling this cost can result in significant energy and monetary savings. A properly balanced aeration basin control scheme using variable frequency drives (VFDs) to control the blowers, instead of the typical fixed speed inlet throttling valve scenario, can help achieve considerable energy savings.
The source for all the air in a diffused aeration system is the blower. This is where the energy and efficiency of the system is measured. Therefore, it's imperative to examine blower control when implementing a properly balanced aeration control scheme.
For large, multiple-basin systems, the most common type of blower is a centrifugal blower. Compared to a positive displacement blower, centrifugal blowers offer the greatest cost savings. These machines are incredibly robust as long as they are operated above their surge point. If the blower is operated below this point, it cannot maintain its rated pressure and a severe vibration problem will result. If this remains unchecked the blower's impeller and other components can be damaged.
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•Article: VFDs Can Help Reduce Aeration Basin Energy Costs
SOURCE: Schneider Electric
