Lagoon aeration

Aerated lagoons are one of the simplest and most widely used methods for the biological treatment of municipal and industrial wastewater. They are often selected for their operational simplicity, robustness and ability to handle variable flows and loads. However, traditional lagoon aeration systems can be limited by low oxygen transfer efficiency, high energy consumption, difficult maintenance access and the need for disruptive installation works.

Mapal’s drop-in floating aeration units enable highly effective Fine Bubble aeration to be installed in lagoons without emptying the basin or carrying out major civil works. The units are installed from above by crane, directly into live wastewater, allowing upgrades, retrofits and supplemental aeration to be carried out with minimal disruption to site operations.

The floating units are positioned at the lagoon surface, while the Fine Bubble diffusers are suspended approximately 30 cm above the lagoon floor. This configuration allows the system to operate effectively even where the lagoon floor is uneven, without requiring floor levelling and without damaging geotechnical or HDPE liners.

By using Fine Bubble diffusers, Mapal’s lagoon aeration systems provide efficient oxygen transfer and a high level of oxygen delivery per kW when compared with conventional surface aerators. This can help improve biological treatment performance while reducing energy demand.

Mapal has extensive experience installing aeration units in live lagoons. Because installation is carried out by crane, the lagoon does not need to be drained, and personnel are not required to enter the wastewater during installation or maintenance. The units are fully retrievable, allowing them to be lifted out for inspection, maintenance or relocation as needed.

Mapal’s units can be used as a complete lagoon aeration solution or installed alongside existing surface aerators when supplemental oxygen is required. The units are securely harnessed in place, preventing movement and avoiding the risk of collision with existing aeration equipment.

Mapal offers Fine Bubble aeration systems for lagoons on either a permanent or rental basis, according to the customer’s operational, budgetary and project requirements. This makes the solution suitable for long-term upgrades, temporary capacity increases, emergency oxygen support and phased lagoon improvement projects.