A simple membrane replacement doubles service life

For many wastewater treatment plant operators, aeration is one of the central and at the same time most cost-intensive systems in the plant. When the technology needs to be renewed, extensive investments are often required. This is exactly where the AEROSTRIP® Type R comes in: instead of replacing complete diffusers, a simple membrane replacement is sufficient. The existing installation remains in place, maintenance effort is reduced, and the service life of the aeration systems is significantly extended. For almost four decades, AQUACONSULT has been developing aeration technologies for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants. The AEROSTRIP® strip diffusers ensure consistently high oxygen transfer with low energy consumption and enable stable operation even under highly fluctuating loads. In addition, the new generation of strip diffusers also performs well at higher water temperatures. This creates excellent conditions for global use and expands application possibilities in the industrial sector. With the new AEROSTRIP® Type R, the company is expanding its portfolio with a particularly sustainable and service-friendly generation of diffusers. 

Quick and easy diffuser membrane replacement

The key advantages: In addition to the higher temperature operating range, the diffuser membrane of the new R-Type can be replaced quickly and easily. This replacement can be carried out directly on site with minimal effort, reducing maintenance costs and minimizing downtime. For AEROSTRIP® diffusers, a membrane replacement is typically only required after 15 to 20 years. Thanks to this refurbishment concept, the systems can be operated efficiently for up to 30 years in total – a significant contribution to resource conservation and the reduction of life cycle costs in wastewater treatment plants.“We have developed a diffuser solution with the R-Type that sets a new global benchmark for optimized life cycle costs in wastewater treatment plants,” explains Managing Director Gerald Glaninger. “Our membranes operate with high efficiency over long periods of time. Only at the end of their technical service life does it make sense to replace the membrane in order to fully restore the original performance.” Especially in times of material shortages, rising energy costs, and an increasing focus on resource conservation, this durable product concept is crucial. “Regular replacement of the membrane or the entire diffuser fundamentally contradicts our product philosophy – we deliberately focus on long-lasting solutions that endure for decades,” adds Glaninger.

Separable materials and recycled plastics

The R-Type also sets new standards in terms of material efficiency and sustainability. The components used – such as the TPU membrane and its holder – consist of clearly separable materials and can be easily recycled. The base profile can also be made from recycled plastic. At the same time, the new diffuser remains fully compatible with existing installations: existing air supply lines and mounting brackets from the previous AEROSTRIP® Type Q can continue to be used.“With the R-Type, we have consolidated many years of development expertise and carefully analyzed what wastewater treatment plant operators need today,” explains Junichi Kagoroku, lead developer of the system at AQUACONSULT Anlagenbau. “The new generation combines our proven membrane technology with improved maintenance concepts, high material efficiency, and a clear focus on sustainability.”

New strip diffuser “AEROSTRIP® Type R” available from 2027

The development of the R-Type took place at the company’s site in Traiskirchen in close cooperation with international partners and wastewater treatment plant operators. Initial systems are currently being tested before the new diffusers are officially added to the portfolio next year and made available worldwide.With the new generation of AEROSTRIP® diffusers, AQUACONSULT once again underlines its role as an innovation partner in the international water industry. Today, strip diffusers from Traiskirchen are already in use in more than 2,500 municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants worldwide, making a significant contribution to energy-efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment.

Photos:
1. The AEROSTRIP® Type R: Instead of replacing complete diffusers, a simple membrane replacement is sufficient. (© AQUACONSULT)
2. “With the R-Type, we have developed a diffuser solution that sets a new global benchmark for optimized life cycle costs in wastewater treatment plants.”Gerald Glaninger, Managing Director AQUACONSULT Anlagenbau. (© AQUACONSULT)
3. Thanks to the innovative refurbishment concept of the AEROSTRIP® Type R, the systems can be operated efficiently for up to 30 years – a significant contribution to resource conservation and the reduction of life cycle costs in wastewater treatment plants. (© AIZ/AQUACONSULT)