Our impeller technology, such as the Talon™ and GDX systems, is designed for efficient oxygen transfer and mixing, reducing energy consumption by up to 25% compared to traditional designs​.

When selecting a mixer for aeration, it’s essential to consider the oxygen transfer rate required, the tank or basin size, the type of wastewater, and the required mixing intensity. Additional considerations include power efficiency, impeller type, and the mixer’s ability to handle variations in oxygen demand to maintain consistent dissolved oxygen levels.

Impeller selection should be based on the type of aeration process and desired outcomes. For surface aeration, low-speed surface impellers like the Talon™ are ideal for maximizing oxygen transfer. Submerged aeration applications, such as with the GDX impeller, work well for fine bubble dispersion and are suited for tanks that alternate between aerobic and anoxic processes.

Ragging occurs when fibrous materials accumulate on the impeller, increasing the load on the motor and potentially leading to motor overload or component failure. It also disrupts the mixing process by obstructing flow and reducing efficiency. Anti-ragging impeller designs, like the ARI-2 and GDX impellers, prevent material build-up, ensuring consistent mixing performance and reducing maintenance needs.

Anti-ragging impellers are designed with features that prevent fibrous material from accumulating, which can compromise mixing performance. Impellers such as the ARI-2 are specifically designed to disperse flow away from the impeller shaft, minimizing contact with ragging materials and reducing the need for frequent shutdowns to clear blockages.

Proper impeller placement ensures optimal oxygen distribution and prevents short-circuiting within the tank. For example, placing the impeller closer to the surface can improve oxygen transfer, while positioning it lower in the tank promotes better circulation and reduces dead zones. Adjusting impeller height can also improve the system’s ability to handle varying load conditions effectively.

Power efficiency is crucial for minimizing operational costs, especially in continuous processes like aeration. Choosing mixers and impellers with optimized power consumption, such as low-speed, high-torque mixers, can significantly reduce energy use without compromising performance. Energy-efficient impellers like the Talon™ or GDX provide effective aeration with less power input.

Mixers designed for easy maintenance, with features like drywell designs and self-lubricating components, reduce downtime and minimize maintenance costs. Additionally, mixers equipped with inspection windows or quick-release parts facilitate on-site servicing, keeping operational interruptions to a minimum.

SPX FLOW provides mixers like the Raven Series and PVE 12-16 Series, which ensure effective sludge mixing and help maintain a consistent flow, preventing settling in holding tanks and digesters.

VFDs allow for adjustable mixer speed, enabling precise control over mixing intensity to match varying oxygen demands. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in aeration processes that fluctuate with changing loads, allowing operators to reduce speed during low-demand periods and conserve energy without sacrificing aeration efficiency.

Retrofitting is beneficial when operational efficiency drops due to frequent clogging or when maintenance needs are high. Anti-ragging impellers can be fitted to existing systems, enhancing durability and reducing downtime. Facilities with high fiber content in wastewater, such as municipal plants, may benefit significantly from retrofitting to maintain consistent aeration.

Tank dimensions directly impact mixer power requirements, impeller size and positioning. Larger tanks may require multiple mixers or specialized impellers to ensure uniform mixing and adequate oxygen distribution. Consulting with mixer experts can help determine the right combination of mixer and impeller based on tank geometry and process requirements.

When selecting a centrifugal pump, it’s important to consider the fluid characteristics (such as viscosity and corrosiveness), required flow rate, total dynamic head, pump material compatibility and the specific application needs. Choosing the right model and material for the application ensures reliability and reduces maintenance over time.

Vertical centrifugal pumps, such as the CombiFlex Series, are ideal for applications where space is limited or when handling wastewater with some solids. These pumps are designed to save space, improve stability and often provide easier access for maintenance. They also help reduce the risk of leakage when handling large volumes in wastewater treatment systems​.

Pump efficiency directly affects energy consumption, which can be significant in continuous operations like water treatment. High-efficiency pumps, such as those in the Johnson Pump® CombiNorm Series, reduce energy costs by delivering the required flow with less power, which is especially beneficial in large-scale treatment facilities with long operating hours​.

Cavitation occurs when vapor bubbles form in the pump due to low pressure, causing potential damage as they collapse. It can be prevented by ensuring proper pump sizing, maintaining adequate suction head, and avoiding excessive flow rates. Selecting a pump with appropriate net positive suction head (NPSH) requirements, such as the CombiChem Series for challenging fluids, helps mitigate cavitation​.

Regular maintenance, including inspection of seals, lubrication of bearings and monitoring for unusual vibrations or noise, helps extend the life of centrifugal pumps. For wastewater environments, using genuine spare parts and implementing preventative measures like strainers to filter out solids can reduce wear and improve pump reliability. Many SPX FLOW pumps are designed for easy maintenance to minimize downtime​.