GRUNDFOS DATA BOOKLET

Sewage aeration systems

Disc and tube diffusers
 Sewage aeration systems

1. Product introduction 3
Table of contents

Applications 3
Features and benefits 3

2. Identification 5
Type key 5

3. Product selection 6
Selection and sizing 6
How to order 6

4. Performance range 9
Performance overview 9

5. Product range 11

6. Installation 12
Assembly drawings 12
Component and pipe list 12

7. Product description 13
Process description 13
Product description 14
System description 15

8. Performance curves and technical data 21

Curve conditions 21
How to read the performance curves 21
Disc diffuser 9", fine bubble diffuser (1-1) 22
Disc diffuser 9", fine bubble diffuser (1.5 - 1.5) 23
Disc diffuser 12", fine bubble diffuser (1.5-2.5) 24
Disc diffuser 5", coarse bubble diffuser 25
Tube diffuser 2", fine bubble diffuser (1-1.5) 26
Tube diffuser 2", fine bubble diffuser (2-2) 27
Tube diffuser 3", fine bubble diffuser (1-1) 28
Tube diffuser 3", fine bubble diffuser (2-2) 29
Tube diffuser, coarse bubble diffuser 30

9. Accessories 31
Membranes 31
Diffusors 31
Supports 31
Purge 31
Connections 32
Other accessories 32

10. Further product documentation 33

WebCAPS 33
WinCAPS 34

2
Sewage aeration systems
1. Product introduction
This data booklet describes Grundfos sewage aeration
systems.
These types of diffuser are available:
• Grundfos fine bubble tube diffusers
• Grundfos coarse bubble tube diffusers
• Grundfos fine bubble disc diffusers
• Grundfos coarse bubble disc diffusers
TM05 6036 4412
Fig. 1 Diffusers family
Applications
Sewage aeration systems can be used for two main
applications:
• Providing oxygen transfer
• Mixing where oxygen transfer is not a priority.
Disc and tube diffusers for bottom-diffused aeration in
wastewater treatment plants provide oxygen and
mixing for:
• biological process tanks
• sludge aeration
• equalisation tanks
• grit traps
• other processes where air supply is needed.
Grundfos offers complete aeration systems with disc or
tube diffusers fitted. The systems can be designed as
fixed or retractable systems.
Furthermore, Grundfos provides air compressors to
deliver air to the sewage aerations systems. The
Sewage Aeration Compressor (SAC) range consists of
highly efficient direct-driven compressors. For more
information, go to webCAPS to see SAC data booklet
or contact Grundfos.
1
Product introduction
Features and benefits
Product features
• Fixed and retractable aeration systems to suite
versatile applications.
• Different materials for air distribution piping to suit
fixed and retractable systems as well as different
submergence levels in a cost efficient way.
• System components in a range of materials suitable
for different wastewater characteristics.
• Condensation purge systems to remove collected
moisture in the pipes and to keep moisture level
under control.
• A large range of disc and tube diffusers to suite all
needs.
• Diffusers are fitted with a standard durable EPDM
membrane. For special wastewater applications,
other membrane materials are available.
• Flexibility of the elastomeric membrane ensures
fully closed diffusers when air supply is off.
This allows for on/off operation of the aeration
system without the risk of the membranes clogging
in SBR (Sequence Biological Reactor) systems or in
zones of simultaneous nitrification/denitrification.
The non return valve "built in" the membrane will
also prevent sludge to enter the system via the
membrane.
• A non-return valve is integrated in the membrane to
prevent sludge ingress into the air distribution pipes.
(Furthermore available as an additional internal
separate valve.)
• Non-opening knobs on the reinforced diffuser back
plate and the threefold threaded retainer ring
ensures that the membrane will not accidentally slip
off the disc diffuser.
Customised solution
• When designing aeration systems, Grundfos takes
into account the complex interplay of sewage type,
based on AOR → SOR [kg O2/h] (Actual Oxygen
Requirement → Standard Oxygen Requirement,
respectively.
The design of the grid layout is based on the active
surface of diffusers in the basin and airflow per
diffuser to obtain an efficient system.
• The customising process is based on the criteria set
out by the customer with respect to initial
investment levels and long-term standard aeration
efficiency (SAE) [kg O2/kWh].
• To meet customer requirements and to provide the
required oxygen transfer rate, we design the
optimum system based on components, materials
and solutions in our range.
3
 Sewage aeration systems
1
Uniform aeration
Product introduction

• The diffuser design ensures a uniform air

distribution and bubble release across the
membrane surface.
• With our large range of sturdy and flexible disc and
tube diffusers, our systems can be designed to
deliver fine bubbles at a wide range of air rates.
Fast installation
• Fast on-site installation. To minimise construction
time, Grundfos aeration systems are delivered
partially assembled on-site, in carefully numbered
crates and boxes, itemised in detail.
• All gluing, solvent welding and cutting for plastic
piping is done in the workshop before shipment.
• With one-bolt connections, on-site installation of the
air distribution pipes is fast and easy.
• Fully adjustable piping supports in stainless steel for
installation flexibility and easy levelling.
• Expansion/contraction is controlled through
mechanically fixed flanges in sliding supports.
• Working layout drawings included to ensure fast
and installation.

4
Sewage aeration systems
2

2. Identification

Identification
Type key
The Grundfos sewage aerations can be identified by
means of the type designation.
See example of type designation below.

Code Example SAD. F. 9. D. A. EP. 10. 10.

SAD Sewage Aeration Diffusers

Bubble type
C → Coarse bubbles
F F → Fine bubbles
Diffuser size
5→ (5" diameter)
9 9→ (9" diameter)
12 → (12" diameter)
2500 → (2" width / 500 mm length)
2606 → (2" width / 606 mm length)
2750 → (2" width / 750 mm length)
21000 → (2" width / 1000 mm length)
3500 → (3" width / 500 mm length)
3750 → (3" width / 750 mm length)
Diffuser type
D D → Disc
T → Tube
Thread size
A A → 3/4" NPT
B → ISO G 3/4"
Membrane material
EP EP → EPDM rubber
SE → Silicone/EPDM rubber
SI → Silicone
PU → Polyurethane
SS → Stainless steel (304)
Perforation (size of hole (x10))
10 10 → 1.0 mm
15 → 1.5 mm
20 → 2.0 mm
Perforation (distance to next hole (x10))
10 10 → 1.0 mm
15 → 1.5 mm
20 → 2.0 mm
25 → 2.5 mm
60 → 6.0 mm

5

3
3. Product selection
Product selection
Grundfos sells diffusers as part of complete
bottom-aeration systems, or as single diffusers for
maintenance and replacement in existing systems.
Selection and sizing
Selection and sizing of an aeration system is a task
that requires insight into the application and aeration
equipment as well as a thorough knowledge of how the
interplay between the different components will
provide maximum oxygen transfer efficiency.
The aeration system is sized based on the oxygen
requirement of the process. The process oxygen
requirement is calculated from the load of organic
matter, endogenic respiration of the activated sludge
and nitrification rates of the process. This oxygen
requirement is converted to a Standard Oxygen
Requirement (SOR) which can be used to calculate the
required airflow and number of diffusers for the
aeration system.
Product selection tool
When sizing the installation, a number of factors must
be taken into account. Grundfos uses an in-house
selection tool, which ensures that all factors are taken
into consideration.
For more information, please contact Grundfos.
How to order
For final sizing, selection and placement of equipment
or adjustment of selected equipment, support can be
obtained from Grundfos. Certain information must be
available in the enquiry to support and select the most
appropriate solution for the application. The process of
making an enquiry and obtaining an offer for a sewage
aeration systems is the following:
1. Inquiry for a bottom aeration system
(fill out an inquiry form).
2. Based on the inquiry form, calculation by Grundfos
selection tool will be performed.
3. Grundfos will make an pre-offer.
4. Adjustments/customising aeration system.
5. Confirmation and agreement.
6. Order in action.
7. Delivery/commissioning.
6
Sewage aeration systems
Enquiry form
The enquiry form will serve as a check list and provide
sufficient information to the engineering department
about the specific application of the sewage aeration
system. This information must be filled out in the
enquiry form:
• Oxygen demand as either SOR (Standard Oxygen
Rate) or AOR (Actual Oxygen Requirement)
If AOR; water temperature, site altitude, Alpha
factor, Beta factor and DO must be included.
• Type of wastewater
• Tank geometry
• Preferred type of diffuser (disc or tube diffuser).
If no preference is selected, standard components
applicable for the conditions will be used.
• Preferred type of installation (fixed or retractable)
If no preference is selected, standard components
applicable for the conditions will be used.
• Preferred type of pipe material
If no preference is selected, standard components
applicable for the conditions will be used.
• Preferred type of pipe support
If no preference is selected, standard components
applicable for the conditions will be used.
• Airflow, if information on existing compressors is
available
• Special requirements / Additional information
• Optional equipment / Accessories
• Evaluation criteria used for contract award.
In addition, a dimensional drawing of the tank must be
provided.
All data requested must be in place, as it is not
possible to make an offer before such time.
To receive an enquiry form, contact Grundfos.
Based on the information above, Grundfos will prepare
an offer. The offer will include a calculation of system
performance and suggestions for layout of aeration
system.
Sewage aeration systems
3
Background information for sizing The decrease in SOTE is due to the fact that air

Product selection
bubbles will increase in diameter and a coalescence
A central parameter for comparing aeration systems is
effect takes place, all resulting in oxygen transfer
Standard Aeration Efficiency (SAE), defined as the rate
reduction.
of oxygen transferred to the liquid per unit of power
input (kg O2/kWh). SAE is dependent on a complex SOTE [%]
interplay between the system itself and conditions in
and around the basin. For the designer, there are a
number of parameters that can be adjusted to ensure
optimal aeration. This example shows a refurbishment
of existing basins; diffuser submergence and basin
type are therefore given from the outset. The main

TM05 4474 2312

variables that could be adjusted to ensure high oxygen
transfer efficiency are:
• Bubble size - the size of the holes in the membrane
• Unit airflow - the flow through each diffuser [Nm3/h]

• Diffuser active surface - the number of diffusers. Fig. 3 SOTE as a function of airflow rate per diffuser

Bubble size
SOTE [%]
The key to efficient oxygen transfer is the ascent
5% 20 %
velocity of the air bubbles and the air/liquid interface.
This dictates the time and area available for oxygen to
be transferred from the bubble to the surrounding
liquid.
Bubble size has a significant effect on oxygen transfer

TM05 4475 2312

whereas the air/liquid interface of the air bubble
directly influences the oxygen transfer rate. The
air/liquid interface ratio and thus the oxygen transfer
rate can be increased effectively by decreasing bubble
size. Furthermore, fine bubbles have a lower terminal
rise velocity, extending the time available for oxygen
transfer.
Airflow and active surface of diffusers
Standard Oxygen Transfer Efficiency (SOTE)
decreases as the airflow per diffuser increases (fig. 3),
and a high airflow rate per diffuser will thereby
increase operating costs directly. Ensuring sufficient
airflow is fundamental to the oxygenation process.
However, simply increasing the airflow to add more
oxygen will have a negative impact on efficiency. The
lower the airflow, the lower the energy consumption
(kWh).
In addition, the total head loss is increased because
the counter-pressure from the membrane increases
with higher airflow, further increasing the compressor
power consumption.
SOTE [%] Headloss [%]
Break even point
Headloss
SOTE
TM05 6753 5112
[Membrane surface/tank surface]
Fig. 4 SOTE as a function of diffuser active surface
To achieve high aeration efficiency, Grundfos aims for
a high diffuser active surface, which gives a lower
airflow per diffuser. The greater number of diffusers
gives a higher initial cost, but this is quickly offset by
lower operating costs. Increasing diffuser active
surface beyond 20 % will have the opposite effect on
efficiency because the bubbles begin to coalesce,
creating larger bubbles and reducing the air/liquid
interface, see fig. 4. Higher density will also affect the
possibility to work at the tank floor as there will be
limited space for maintenance people to operate.
Getting the materials right
Generally speaking, the temperature of compressed
air in such a system will increase by about
10 °C/mWC. This factor results from elements such as
submergence depth, pipework/fittings and
counter-pressure at the diffuser membrane.
In an installation with deep submergence and a high
ambient temperature, the pressure to overcome head
loss in the aeration system could push the air
temperature (at the compressor) up to very high
temperatures. The comparatively high temperatures
mean that the piping in the basin needs to be in more

heat-resistant PP or SS instead of the more commonly

used uPVC. PP increases the cost of the pipe work
[Nm3/h] compared with uPVC, but is equally durable and
considerably more economical than stainless steel.
Fig. 2 SOTE and headloss as a function of airflow per
• uPVC max. 70 °C
diffuser
• PP max. 100 °C
• Stainless steel if t > 100 °C

7
 Sewage aeration systems
3
Dealing with condensation
Product selection

The hot air in the system condenses readily in the

submerged aeration grid, with water collecting at the
lowest points. Such a build-up of water in the system
reduces pipe diameter, increasing head loss and
thereby operating costs. To relieve the aeration system
of condensate build-up, a purge system is incorporated
at the lowest points in the aeration grid. By ensuring a
lower head loss through the purge system compared
with the diffusers, an airlift function is created, forcing
the condensed water from the grid. The discharge
points of the purge system can either be above water
in a manual system (tap) or at the bottom of the basin
in a continuous, automatic purge system. While the
manual system is quite time-consuming, a combination
of both types of purge system can be made for extra
assurance that the condensed water is being removed
at all times and running cost kept to a minimum.
The manual system gives the opportunity to se the
drainage water from the airpipe system. Grey water
means that the diffusor system is damaged as the
sewage has entered the system, whereas clean water
is only condensed water showing a system in a good
condition.

8
Sewage aeration systems
4

4. Performance range

Performance range
Performance overview
Figures 5 and 6 show the performance range of disc
and tube diffusers. They give an overview of fine and
coarse bubbles and various sizes.
For performance of each individual diffuser,
see pages 21 to 30.
Note: Curves are shown at nominal design flow and a
diffuser active surface of 5 %.

SOTE
[%]
34

32
1
30

28
2 3
26

24

22

20

18

16

14 4

12

10

TM05 4435 2312

6
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Nm³/h
Fig. 5 Performance range, disc diffusers

Disc diffusers Bubble type Curve number Page

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.10.10 1 22
SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.15.15 Fine 2 23
SAD.F.12.D.B.EP.15.25 31 24
SAD.C.5.D.A.EP. Coarse 4 25

1. On request, please contact Grundfos

9
 Sewage aeration systems
4
Performance range

SOTE
[%]
26

25

24

23
3
22

21 4 1
20

19
2
18

17
5
16

15

14

13

12

11

TM05 4436 2312

10
4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48
Nm³/h
Fig. 6 Performance range, tube diffusers

Tube diffusers Bubble type Curve number Page

SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.10.15
SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.20.20
SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.10.10
SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.20.20
SAD.C.2606.W.A.SS
3 26
4 27
Fine
1 28
2 29
Coarse 5 30

10
Sewage aeration systems
5

5. Product range

Product range
The product range below shows single products.
Aeration systems will differ from installation to
installation. Below product range will be used multiple
times in a system.
For orders more than one unit, contact Grundfos for
complete packages and system design layouts.

Material

ALSI 304 or 316L

Stainless steel
EPDM/silicone

Polyurethane
Silicone
Diffuser

EPDM
length Product
Diffuser type Diameter [mm] number Technical data

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.10.10 - 96689731 Page 22 ● ❍ ❍

9"
SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.15.15 - 96689732 Page 23 ● ❍ ❍
Disc diffuser
SAD.F.12.D.B.EP.15.25 12" - 96689733 Page 24 ● ❍
SAD.C.5.D.A.EP. 5" - 96689729 Page 25 ●
SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.10.15 500 96689735 Page 26 ● ❍
SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.10.15 750 96689736 Page 26 ● ❍
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.10.15 1000 97622051 Page 26 ● ❍
2"
SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.20.20 500 On request Page 27 ● ❍
SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.20.20 750 On request Page 27 ● ❍
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.20.20 1000 On request Page 27 ● ❍
Tube diffuser SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.10.10 500 On request Page 28 ● ❍
SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.10.10 750 On request Page 28 ● ❍
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.10.10 1000 On request Page 28
3"
SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.20.20 500 96689737 Page 29 ● ❍
SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.20.20 750 96689738 Page 29 ● ❍
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.20.20 1000 On request Page 29
SAD.C.2606.W.A.SS - 606 97622082 Page 30 ●
● Standard membrane material
❍ Optional membrane material. For more information on membranes with these materials, see Selection of material variants, page 11.
For on-request diffuser types, please contact Grundfos.
For spare parts, pipe connections and other accessories, see page 31.

Selection of material variants

The membrane for the diffuser is available in different
materials. In most cases, EPDM will be the suitable
choice of material for municipal wastewater treatment,
whereas other membrane materials might be
considered when treating industrial wastewater.
However, for aeration systems, the membrane suiting
the application will be evaluated based on the
information given of the quality of wastewater.
Guidelines for the overall restrictions of the different
membrane materials are given below. For requests
concerning working conditions in specific chemical
compounds/liquids, please contact Grundfos.

11
 Sewage aeration systems
6

6. Installation
Installation

At delivery of a sewage aeration system, Grundfos

includes a working layout of the entire system.
The working layout consists of a complete drawing of
the sewage aeration system, assembly requirements
and a component and pipe list.
The sewage aeration system is delivered in sections
with each item packed and numbered according to the
component and pipe list. A package number refers to
the shipment, and a code number refers to the
assembly drawings.
An example of how the system could be sorted in
packages is shown below. Each package can consist
of several boxes:
• Package 1 contains sections, such as drop leg,
manifold and lateral piping.
• Package 2 contains diffusers.
• Package 3 contains brackets, purge system and
accessories.

Assembly drawings
The assembly drawings show where the sections must
be placed, as well as the assembly requirements.
The assembly drawings provide the following
assembly instructions and overview:
• Where to drill holes for anchor bolts
• Support assembly instructions
• Pipe assembly instructions
• Purge kit assembly instructions
• Connection of diffuser
• Numbering of components, such as screws and
bolts, so that the components can be identified on
the component and pipe list
• Torques for tightening of screw-in components.

Component and pipe list

The component and pipe list is a check list for all
components of the sewage aeration system.
The list provides the following information:
• Code number - unique code number which refers to
the assembly instructions
• Description of components
• Quantity of each component
• Package - which box the components are packed in.

12
Sewage aeration systems
7. Product description
Process description
Aeration is a crucial process in the operations of a
wastewater treatment plant. Aeration is used in the
process of transforming wastewater to treated water
and sludge.
Grundfos aeration equipment for coarse and fine
bubble aeration provides a highly efficient solution.
Furthermore, a broad range of equipment designed
specifically for wastewater handling and treatment is
available, and Grundfos can supply a solution that is
durable, cost effective, energy efficient and offers
trouble-free operation.
Application
Wastewater enters the wastewater treatment plant at
the inlet pumping station. For primary mechanical
treatment, solids and sediments in the wastewater can
be kept in suspension using mixers, from where solids
can be filtered. Coarse bubble aeration allows grease
to be skimmed from the surface, while sediments settle
at the bottom and can then be removed.
Secondary treatment removes suspended biological
matter and to some extent dissolved matter. Biological
treatment is the most commonly used method for
treatment of wastewater to remove high amounts of
organic matter and nutrients.
The activated sludge process which is one of the most
commonly used in biological treatment utilises the
growth of specific floc-forming bacteria that live
suspended in the wastewater. To create optimum
conditions for the bacteria they are kept under specific
process conditions and furthermore, a certain retention
time for wastewater and sludge is necessary for the
biological processes to take place.
Inlet pumping station 2 Screening
Equalisation1,2
Sludge
Primary Clarification3
Process tank3 Anaerobic
Settled sludge
Process tank3 Anoxic
Process tank3 Aerobic
Recirculation
Secondary Clarification 3
Final polishing3
Fig. 7 Overview over the wastewater treatment process
7
Product description
For aeration of wastewater during biological treatment,
Grundfos offers fixed or retractable systems of fine
bubble diffusers for efficient oxygen transfer. Fine
bubble equipment consists of either disc diffusers or
tube diffusers. Depending on preference or other
issues, a thorough aeration can be obtained by using
either one of these types. Non-pressurised systems
made from stainless steel are also available for
aeration of wastewater, and can be used for both
mixing and aeration.
For circulation of wastewater between different
process zones, horizontal recirculation pumps, when
applicable, keep vast flows at low head moving
reliably. To avoid settling of the bacterial flocs in the
process tank, mixers and flowmakers offer an
optimum, energy-efficient solution.
Sludge from the secondary clarifiers can be returned to
the process tank using a pump from the range of SL,
SE or S, pumps that handles total suspended solids up
to 5 %.
Grundfos can provide varoius dosing pumps and
complete dosing systems. These can be used for
applications of dosing coagulants, flocculants,
substrate to enhance C/N or C/P ratios, and in tertiary
treatment for disinfection. See the fig. 7 for an
overview of the wastewater treatment process.
Please contact Grundfos for further information.
Grit + grease removal1 Neutralisation 2,3
Sludge storage
Sludge thickening 3
Sludge stabilisation
Sludge dewatering3
1.) Aeration.
2.) Mixing.
3.) Chemical dosing.
13
 Sewage aeration systems
7
Product description The ideal membrane perforation for oxygen transfer
Product description

consists of small and separated slits. This kind of

The main components of an aeration system are perforation gives an efficient oxygen transfer rate
shown in fig. 8. compared to the head losses. Furthermore, the
separated slits reduce the risk of bubble coalescence,
as bubble coalescence will generate larger bubbles,
Diffuser
which will decrease oxygen transfer rates.

Diffuser membrane perforations and size

Lateral pipe
For the traditional applications in municipal or
industrial wastewater treatment plants, a membrane
Pipe support
opening of 1 mm - 1 mm (1-1) is typically employed.
This perforation gives good oxygen transfer
efficiencies with a modest pressure loss through the
Connection to drop
leg
overall system. The (1-1) perforation has
demonstrated long-term serviceability in performance

TM05 4524 2412

Manifold
Fig. 8 Main components of aeration system
Bubble size
An important feature of the flexible membranes is the
number of perforations, as well as their size and
pattern.
Perforations are produced by making small slits in the
membrane without removing any rubber.
Each hole acts as a variable aperture which opens at
membrane inflation when air supply is turned on.
Diffusers are normally characterised by the size of the
slits, hence the size of bubbles the membrane delivers.
Diffusers delivering bubbles of 0.5 - 3 mm in diameter
are termed fine bubble diffusers whereas diffusers
delivering bubbles above this size are termed coarse
bubble diffusers.
TM05 4525 2412 - TM05 4526 2412
by minimising the potential for fouling compared to
smaller openings.
However, with a specific tank design, the combination
of available space for the sewage aeration system and
requested SOR, thus the airflow through the diffusers,
might require another perforation of the membrane.
The membrane must be chosen to fulfil process
requirements in order to operate at its nominal airflow.
Operating diffusers at too high airflow can reduce
lifetime or performance of the membrane as this will
increase stress and induce a higher temperature on
the membrane. Also, with a too low airflow through the
membrane, performance can be reduced. This is
mainly due to the fact that not all slits of the perforation
will discharge air but also due to the fact that the
membrane will foul more easily. See the characteristics
of diffusers in the Grundfos range from pages 21 to 30.
For each type of perforation, the principle relationship
between airflow rate per diffuser, SOTE per metre and
head loss over the membrane shows that increasing
the airflow above the nominal value will increase the
operating cost of the system as SOTE per metre
decreases while the head loss increases.

During operation the membranes will foul and over

time, cleaning with acid will make it possible for the
membranes to regain their flexibility. Special acid
dosing system can be inserted to the dropleg and by
means of that it will be possible to dose sufficient acid.
When the membranes are not supplied with air the mid
section of the disk diffuser membranes will act as a
nonreturn valve as the mid section is not perforated as
the rest of the membrane surface. The mid section will
Fig. 9 Fine and coarse bubbles
act as a lid against the hole supplying air to the
A membrane perforation of (1-1) means that each slit membrane. An extra nonreturn valve can be added in
of the membrane is 1 mm with a 1 mm space to the the inlet to the disc diffusers, see accessories page 31.
next slit. This perforation gives an approximate bubble
size of 1 mm in diameter and the diffuser is termed a
fine bubble diffuser.
The smaller the slits, thus the bubbles produced by the
membrane, the better the oxygen transfer rate, but in
contrary the higher the head loss across the
membrane will be. For larger bubbles, the oxygen
transfer will decrease, as will the head loss across the
membrane. This implies that when air flow is important
for the application, diffusers delivering coarse bubbles
should be used.

14
Sewage aeration systems
Tube vs. disc diffuser
Grundfos offers two main types of diffuser designs,
disc and tube. They are both designed with the
objective to supply air and mixing to different
processes at e.g. a wastewater treatment plant
(WWTP). Both types of diffusers are available as both
fine and coarse bubble diffuser.
The most common is to use disc diffusers, as the disc
diffuser is easy to install and is not as affected by the
forces in the basin as a tube diffuser is. Tube diffusers
are mostly used when a compact design of the
aeration system is needed, e.g. when space is limited
in the tank or in some cases when designing
retractable systems.
In a retractable sewage aeration system, the support
frame (also used for air distribution) must be made of
stainless steel. The diffusers which can handle the
most air with the least stainless steel support are going
to be an attractive choice. Typically, tube diffusers are
seen on retractable systems for this reason. In
bottom-mounted diffuser systems where the air
distribution pipes are bolted to the floor, disc diffusers
seem to be the preferred choice over tubes.
Where system failure might be crucial for system
performance, disc diffusers may be favoured over
tubes. Tube diffusers typically have a large air orifice,
hence in case of a membrane rupture or clamp failure,
a large volume of air can escape from that orifice,
possibly starving the rest of the system.
However, fundamentally there is no difference between
the two types of diffusers and one can easily be
chosen over the other for either bottom-mounted or
retractable systems without compromising aeration
needs or system performance.
7
System description
Product description
Piping
Pipe materials
Pipeworks guiding the air from the compressor to the
aeration tank often experience high temperatures.
Due to this reason, the pipe material including the drop
leg to the aeration grid is most often made of stainless
steel to withstand the heat. Furthermore, metal is an
excellent heat conductor, which helps to reduce the
temperature of the air before it reaches the aeration
system. Another reason is that it effectively resists
corrosion at the point where the piping breaks the
wastewater surface.
At the aeration grid on the bottom of the process tank
where the wastewater cools down the piping and thus
the compressed air, uPVC, PP or stainless steel can
be used.
For fixed aeration systems, the air temperature and
price are the main factors that are considered, which
results in the fact that uPVC or PP is the choice of
material. These two pipe materials are supplied in
PN 10 (uPVC) and PN 6 (PP) to make sure that the
aeration system has a certain mechanical strength.
Drop leg
Stainless steel
uPVC, PP or
stainless steel
TM05 4527 2412
Aeration grid
Fig. 10 Piping material in system
As a rule of thumb, PVC can be used if diffuser
submergence is < 7 m, whereas PP should be used if
the submergence is 7-10 m. However, the maximum
attainable temperature should always be calculated for
each specific project and materials chosen
accordingly. (See Temperature increase of
compressed air, page 18.)
For retractable aeration systems, a certain mechanical
strength of the grid is required in the construction,
which results in the fact that stainless steel is the only
durable option for these systems.
15

7
Pipe dimension
Product description
When designing the pipeworks of an aeration system,
it is important that the head losses within the manifolds
and laterals are small compared to the resistance of
the diffusers. This should be observed in order to
obtain an even air distribution in the entire aeration
grid.
Typically, if head losses in the air piping between the
last airflow split and the farthest diffuser are less than
10 % of the head loss across the diffusers, good air
distribution through the aeration basin can be
maintained, independent of pipe configuration.
1 should be taken in aeration grid design. For uPVC and
3
2 must be taken into consideration when designing the
TM05 4476 2312
Fig. 11 Head loss across diffusers
1. Flow split
2. Last diffuser
3. Pipe head loss, must be < 10 % across diffusers.
Grundfos offers a wide range of pipes in different
materials and dimensions. Having different dimensions
makes it possible to design the most economical
solution with regards to head losses in the system,
size of pipes, number of necessary drop legs and
laterals.
For instance, when a dimension of ∅110 for the lateral
pipe is used, it is possible to use a pipe length of up to
45 metres with 70 diffusers per pipe, while still
maintaining practically the same airflow capacity
between the first and the last diffuser.
When designing a sewage aeration system, the
dimension of the manifold, thus the dimension of the
drop leg, is chosen so that a minimum number of drop
legs is needed compared to the required airflow. The
system must be designed so that the air velocity in the
air distribution pipes will not exceed 10-15 m/s, as this
will create an unacceptable increase in head losses
and increase the noise level as well as create a risk of
vibrations from the piping.
16
Sewage aeration systems
In some instances, the number of drop legs on the
process tank is predefined (e.g. at refurbishments),
and the aeration system should be designed
accordingly. In these instances, it could be advisable to
estimate the air velocity in the drop legs, as increased
process loads etc. may have altered the required
airflow compared to the previous system.
If the air velocity has increased above the
recommended velocity, we recommend making a
detailed calculation and deciding if this is an
acceptable solution.
Coping with heat expansions
Due to temperature variations of the system,
expansions and contractions of the pipes must be
expected. For stainless steel, the extent of expansions
and contractions is small and no special precautions
PP, on the other hand, expansions and contractions
aeration grid. This must be dealt with using flexible
supports or sliding pipe connections.
This type of support lets the pipe slide unhindered in
the longitudinal direction and provides the aeration
system with the flexibility that is needed to avoid pipe
breaks. With a mechanical connection between the
pipes, it is possible to keep an open pipe configuration
in the system, which reduces pipe costs.
Standards/procedures followed for joining pipe
materials
The grids for bottom-diffused aeration can, as
described above, be made of stainless steel, uPVC or
PP. Joining of these materials is done according to the
standards/procedures stated below:
• Stainless steel weldings:
UNI EN ISO 15614-1:2004
• PP weldings:
DVS 2207-11
• Solvent welding and gluing of uPVC:
DVS 2207-12.
Sewage aeration systems
7
Purge system

Product description
During operation, air is distributed in the sewage
aeration system and released through the diffusers.
This air is hot due to compression by the compressors
(see Temperature increase of compressed air,
page 18). The surrounding water is relatively cold
compared to the air, which implies that humidity
contained in the hot air will condensate on the inside of
the aeration grid pipes and build up in the lowest point
of the system. To relieve the aeration system of
condensate build-up, a purge system is incorporated
into the aeration grid. The purpose of the purge system
is to remove the accumulated water from the pipes.
If water is not removed, it will lower the air capacity of
the system, increasing head losses.

TM05 4477 2312

Furthermore, water might enhance corrosion and
thereby lead to clogging of the membranes on the air
side due to loosened corrosion products.
The discharge of the purge system can either be
placed above (manual purge system) or below water Fig. 13 Purge system suction
level (continuous purge system). It must, however, be 1. Purge system connection
ensured that the outlet of the purge system has a lower
2. Lowest point of an aeration system
head loss than if air was to pass through the diffusers
of the aeration grid. If this is ensured, the airlift function
should be operational and condensed water be
discharged from the grid.
TM05 4528 2412 - TM05 4529 2412

Fig. 12 Manual and continuous purge system

The continuous purge system should only be chosen if

maintenance intervals of the system are infrequent as
the continuous system will require that a slight amount
of extra air is supplied to the system.
As mentioned previously, the condensed water will
accumulate at the bottom of the pipes at the lowest
point of the aeration grid. As the click-on flanges for
connection of the laterals are centred diametrically on
the manifold, the manifold will normally be the lowest
point of the aeration grid.
The purge system should therefore be connected to
the grid in a way so that it touches the lowest point of
the system.
When the purge system is open, it works as an airlift
pump using the air supply from the compressor to
force out the condensed water from the grid.

17

7
Head losses of the system
Product description
To deliver air at the diffuser units of an aeration
system, the compressor must provide air at a certain
pressure at the drop leg to the aeration system.
The pressure from the diffuser grid that must be
overcome is made up of head losses from the following
components:
• depth of diffuser submergence
• pipeworks and fittings
• diffusers.
The head loss of the system due to contributions from
the aeration grid is described by the equation below:
H t = Hs + Hp + Hd
Unit Description
Ht mWC Total head loss (aeration grid)
Hs mWC Submergence depth
Hp mWC Head loss in piping
Hd mWC Head loss in diffuser and membrane
Losses due to diffuser submergence are constant,
whereas losses in the pipeworks and across the
membranes are variable and depend on airflow rates.
The head losses in the latter two contributors increase
as a result of increased airflow rates.
At constant airflow rates, losses in the pipe system will
be more or less constant during the lifetime of the
system. In contrast to this, the losses across the
diffuser membrane will increase over time due to
fouling effects and deterioration of the chemical
structure of the membrane. The increase in membrane
head losses will directly affect the total system losses.
Because the losses in the pipes and losses due to
submergence of the diffusers are constant over time,
the increase in total losses can be used as a measure
of when it is time to clean the diffuser membranes.
To obtain an equal air distribution in the diffuser
system, the diffusers must be exposed to equal head
losses. This is due to the fact that air will leave the
system at the point with lowest head losses.
If the diffusers are not on level, air distribution in the
system will be unequal and thus the application will not
function optimally.
When designing an aeration system, take into account
that there is a head loss between the compressor
installation and the diffuser system.
18
Sewage aeration systems
Temperature increase of compressed air
Generating the pressure to overcome the system head
losses implies that heat will be generated as air is
compressed. In general, the compressor air
temperature increases 10 °C per m of submergence,
when air is rapidly compressed. To estimate the final
outlet temperature of air from the compressor, the
temperature of the inlet air must be added on top of the
temperature rise due to head losses as described by
the equation below:
tt = ts + to + ta
Unit Description
tt °C Total temperature rise in system
ts °C Temperature rise due to submergence
to °C Temperature rise due to other head
ta °C Ambient temperature
The outlet air is supplied directly to the piping and
membranes of the aeration system, which must be
able to withstand the high temperatures. For a tank
with a water depth of 8 metres, the increase in
temperature due to diffuser submergence equals
approximately 80 °C, and with an ambient temperature
of 20 °C, the compressor outlet temperature will add
up to approximately 100 °C.
The compressor is most often placed in a separate
building some distance away from the sewage aeration
system.
Because of the temperature of the outlet air, it is
conveyed to the sewage aeration system in stainless
steel piping. During transport, the air temperature
decreases slightly due to heat transfer to the air or
ground where the pipes are placed. When the piping is
submerged into the wastewater, the heat transfer from
the distribution pipe increases, as water has a higher
heat transfer coefficient than air. Due to the higher
heat transfer and the decrease in air temperature
during transport, plastic piping is in most instances
used for floor distribution. However, the applicability of
plastic piping due to heat should still be evaluated.
The pipe temperature is the average between the air
temperature and the water temperature. The average
temperature of the pipe has to be below the limit
temperature of the pipe material see Getting the
materials right page 7.
Sewage aeration systems
Fixed system
The fixed system is the standard solution, and in this
case the sewage aeration system is mounted and
bolted into the floor of the process tank.
Depending on localisation of the dropleg the aeration
grid can be made to suit tank floor and utilise the area
at a maximum.
Depending on the application the piping systems can
be made of several pipe materials. Typically PVC, PP
or Stainless steel pipes. PVC is primarily used when
there is no special requirements because of the
temperature due to deep tanks. Tanks deeper then
8 meters are typically not equipped with PVC.
Using fixed installations requires that the tank needs to
be emptied and cleaned before maintenance as the
aeration grid has to be out of the water before any
work can be done.
Retractable system
Some aeration systems for wastewater treatment will
be installed at plants with a single process line or
where process considerations prevent the tank from
being dewatered for service and maintenance of the
sewage aeration system. In these cases, a retractable
sewage aeration system could be an alternative to a
bottom-mounted system as the retractable system
allows maintenance or service to be conducted without
shutting down the process or dewatering the tank.
This gives a more flexible operation of the aeration
system with an easy procedure for maintenance.
However, to have enough rigidity in the system when
lifting it, stainless steel is the sole material that can be
used for the frame. Using stainless steel for the piping
increases system cost compared to using uPVC or PP
pipes. A retractable sewage aeration system is
therefore mostly suited for plants with special needs as
described above, for smaller plants with only few
diffusers installed or where easy maintenance has high
priority.
7
Main components
Product description
The main components of a standard retractable
aeration system are shown in fig. 14.
Support beam
Wall guide
Drop leg
Manifold
Bottom guide
Counterweight
TM05 4530 2412
Purge system
Fig. 14 Retractable sewage aeration system
The drop leg of the system is always made with round
pipes. The drop leg is, depending on the actual airflow
rate, made with either a DN 80 or DN 100 flange.
During design of the system, both the head losses and
material cost of the pipes are evaluated in order to
select an appropriate pipe size.
Piping
The manifold is made of either square or round pipes.
When disc diffusers are used, a square manifold is
used as it is easier to fit on the lateral pipes holding the
diffusers.
When tube diffusers are used, the manifold can be
made of either round or square pipes. This is possible
because no lateral pipes are used in this case as tube
diffusers are connected directly to the manifold.
Wall guide
The wall guide supports the drop leg during operation
of the system. It is designed as a square pipe, open on
one side, with a widening at the top. This widening
makes it easier to download the aeration skid during
installation or reinsertion after maintenance.
TM05 4531 2412 - TM05 4532 2412
Fig. 15 Wall guide
19
 Sewage aeration systems
7
Bottom guide
Product description

The V-shaped bottom guide is fixed to the tank floor

during installation of the system. The bottom guide
helps the system to be correctly positioned when
lowering the skid into a tank filled with wastewater.
Furthermore, the guide prevents the aeration skid from
making lateral movements that could otherwise be
caused by the liquid flow if mixers or flowmakers are
used in the tank.

TM05 4533 2412

Fig. 16 Bottom guide

Buoyancy
Buoyancy of the system is controlled in two ways in
order to keep the aeration skid at the bottom of the
tank. Firstly by the weight of the stainless steel skid
supporting the diffusers and secondly by adding
counterweight.
The counterweight is integrated directly into the beam
where also the feet for levelling the aeration system
are mounted.
An excess weight compared to the buoyant force of the
system is used to ensure that the skid stays in place
and that no extra strain is put on the flange connection
at the top of the drop leg.
TM05 4534 2412

Fig. 17 Buoyancy

20
Sewage aeration systems
8

8. Performance curves and technical data

Performance curves and technical data

Curve conditions
The curves on pages 22 to 30 are subject to these guidelines:
• Standard Oxygen Transfer Efficiency (SOTE) is calculated at water levels of 3, 4 and 5 m.
• Diffuser active surface of 5 % (at a higher active surface, higher SOTE can be reached).
• Nominal design flow.
• Airflow per diffuser is listed below each curve.
• For different working conditions, please contact Grundfos.

How to read the performance curves

Standard Oxygen Transfer Efficiency Water level above diffuser

SOTE
[%]

35
5m
30
4m
25
3m
20

15

10
2.0 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3.0 3.2 3.4 3.6 3.8 4.0
Nm³/h

TM05 3297 1112

Airflow per hour at 0 °C and 1.013 bar
Fig. 18 Performance curves

21
 Sewage aeration systems
8
Disc diffuser 9", fine bubble diffuser (1-1)
Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]

35
5m
30
4m
25
3m
20

15

TM05 3297 1112

10
2.0 2.2 2.4 2.6 2.8 3.0 3.2 3.4 3.6 3.8 4.0
Nm³/h

Pos. Description

1 Holder
2 Retainer ring
3 Membrane
4 Anti-friction ring

TM05 3270 1112

Dimensions
D1 D2 H1 H2 H3
[mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.10.10 270 3/4" NPT male 64 32.7 29

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Membrane Number of Anti-friction
surface Holder Retainer ring
standard optional perforation perforations ring
[m2]

EPDM/silicone,
SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.10.10 EPDM 1.0 - 1.0 > 7200 0.038 Polypropylene Polypropylene POM
silicone

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm 3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm3/h]

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.10.10 2.0 - 4.0 3.5 7.0 1.0 35.0

1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.10.10 2.2 > 140 600 > 1787 60 Shore A < 10

22
Sewage aeration systems
8
Disc diffuser 9", fine bubble diffuser (1.5 - 1.5)

Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]

30 5m

25 4m

20 3m

15

TM05 3298 1112

10
4.50 4.75 5.00 5.25 5.50 5.75 6.00 6.25 6.50
Nm³/h

Pos. Description

1 Holder
2 Retainer ring
3 Membrane
4 Anti-friction ring

TM05 3270 1112

Dimensions
D1 D2 H1 H2 H3
[mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.15.15 270 3/4" NPT male 64 32.7 29

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Membrane Number of Anti-friction
surface Holder Retainer ring
standard optional perforation perforations ring
[m2]

EPDM/silicone,
SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.15.15 EPDM 1.5 - 1.5 ≈ 4500 0.038 Polypropylene Polypropylene POM
silicone

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm 3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm3/h]

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.15.15 4.5 - 6.5 5.5 11.0 2.0 28.0

1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

SAD.F.9.D.A.EP.15.15 2.2 > 140 600 > 1787 60 Shore A < 10

23
 Sewage aeration systems
8
Disc diffuser 12", fine bubble diffuser (1.5-2.5)
Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]
30
5m
28
26
4m
24
22
20
3m
18

TM05 3305 1112

16
6.0 6.5 7.0 7.5 8.0 8.5 9.0 9.5 10.0
Nm³/h

Pos. Description

1 Holder
2 Retainer ring
3 Membrane
4 Anti-friction ring

TM05 3268 1112

Dimensions
D1 D2 H1 H2 H3
[mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]

SAD.F.12.D.B.EP.15.25 346 ISO G 3/4" male 77 33 -

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Membrane Number of Anti-friction
surface Holder Retainer ring
standard optional perforation perforations ring
[m2]

SAD.F.12.D.B.EP.15.25 EPDM Silicone 1.5 - 2.5 > 10500 0.06 Polypropylene GRPP GRPP

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm 3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm3/h]

SAD.F.12.D.B.EP.15.25 6-10 8.0 16.0 2.0 35.0

1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

SAD.F.12.D.B.EP.15.25 2.4 < 510 - - 55 Shore A < 10

24
Sewage aeration systems
8
Disc diffuser 5", coarse bubble diffuser

Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]
5m
18

16
4m
14

12
3m
10

TM05 3303 1112

8
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Nm³/h

Pos. Description

1 Holder
2 Retainer ring
3 Membrane
4 Anti-friction ring

TM05 3269 1112

Dimensions
D1 D2 H1 H2 H3
[mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]

SAD.C.5.D.A.EP. 127 3/4" NPT male 41 12 -

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Membrane Number of Anti-friction
surface Holder Retainer ring
standard optional perforation perforations ring
[m2]

SAD.C.5.D.A.EP. EPDM - ∅6 [mm] 12 ABS ABS -

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm 3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm3/h]

SAD.C.5.D.A.EP. 10-20 15.0 30.0 2.0 12.4

1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

SAD.C.5.D.A.EP. - - - - - -

25
 Sewage aeration systems
8
Tube diffuser 2", fine bubble diffuser (1-1.5)
Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]
26
5m
24

22 4m
20

18
3m
16

TM05 3301 1112

14
6.0 6.5 7.0 7.5 8.0 8.5 9.0 9.5 10.0
Nm³/h
Curve chart is shown at a diffuser length of 1 m

TM05 3271 1112

Dimensions
D1 L1 D2
[mm] [mm]

SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.10.15 63 (2") 500 ISO G 3/4"female

SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.10.15 63 (2") 750 ISO G 3/4" female
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.10.15 63 (2") 1000 ISO G 3/4" female

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Membrane Number of
surface Diffuser body
standard optional perforation perforations
[m2]

SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.10.15 - 0.09
SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.10.15 EPDM Silicone 1 - 1.5 - 0.135 Polypropylene
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.10.15 - 0.18

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm3/h]

SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.10.15 3.0 - 5.0 4.0 8.0 1.0

SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.10.15 4.5 - 7.5 6.0 12.0 1.5 54.0
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.10.15 6.0 - 10.0 8.0 16.0 2.0
1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

1.7 > 80 450 > 611 48 Shore A -

26
Sewage aeration systems
8
Tube diffuser 2", fine bubble diffuser (2-2)

Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]
24
5m
22

20
4m
18

16 3m

14

TM05 3302 1112

12
8.0 8.5 9.0 9.5 10.0 10.5 11.0 11.5 12.0
Nm³/h
Curve chart is shown at a diffuser length of 1 m

TM05 3271 1112

Dimensions
D1 L1 D2
[mm] [mm]

SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.20.20 63 (2") 500 ISO G 3/4" female

SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.20.20 63 (2") 750 ISO G 3/4" female
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.20.20 63 (2") 1000 ISO G 3/4" female

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Membrane Number of
surface Diffuser body
standard optional perforation perforations
[m2]

SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.20.20 - 0.09
SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.20.20 EPDM Silicone 2.0 - 2.0 - 0.135 Polypropylene
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.20.20 - 0.18

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm 3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm3/h]

SAD.F.2500.T.B.EP.20.20 4.0 - 6.0 5.0 10.0

SAD.F.2750.T.B.EP.20.20 6.0 - 9.0 8.0 16.0 2.0 52.0
SAD.F.21000.T.B.EP.20.20 8.0 - 12.0 10.0
1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

1.7 > 80 450 > 611 48 Shore A -

27
 Sewage aeration systems
8
Tube diffuser 3", fine bubble diffuser (1-1)
Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]
24
5m
22

20 4m

18

16 3m

14

TM05 3299 1112

12
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Nm³/h
Curve chart is shown at a diffuser length of 1 m

TM05 3272 1112

Dimensions
D1 L1 D2
[mm] [mm]

SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.10.10 90 (3") 500 3/4" NPT male

SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.10.10 90 (3") 750 3/4" NPT male
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.10.10 90 (3") 1000 3/4" NPT male

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Number of
Membrane optional surface Diffuser body
standard perforation perforations
[m2]

SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.10.10 - 0.118
SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.10.10 EPDM Polyurethane 1.0 - 1.0 - 0.177 PVC
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.10.10 - 0.236

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm 3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm 3/h]

SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.10.10 6.0 - 11.0 8.5 17.0 2.0

SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.10.10 9.0 - 16.5 13.0 26.0 31.0
3.0
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.10.10 12.0 - 22.0 17.0 34.0
1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

2.5 > 82 500 > 815 40 Shore A < 15

28
Sewage aeration systems
8
Tube diffuser 3", fine bubble diffuser (2-2)

Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]
22

20 5m

18 4m

16

14 3m

12

TM05 3300 1112

10
29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39
Nm³/h
Curve chart is shown at a diffuser length of 1 m

TM05 3272 1112

Dimensions
D1 L1 D2
[mm] [mm]

SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.20.20 90 (3") 500 3/4" NPT male

SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.20.20 90 (3") 750 3/4" NPT male
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.20.20 90 (3") 1000 3/4" NPT male

Material
Active
Membrane Membrane Number of
Membrane optional surface Diffuser body
standard perforation perforations
[m2]

SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.20.20 - 0.118
SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.20.20 EPDM Polyurethane 2.0 - 2.0 - 0.177 PVC
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.20.20 - 0.236

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm 3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm3/h]

SAD.F.3500.T.A.EP.20.20 14.5 - 19.5 17.0 34.0 2.0

SAD.F.3750.T.A.EP.20.20 21.8 - 29.3 26.0 52.0 31.0
3.0
SAD.F.31000.T.A.EP.20.20 29.0 - 39.0 34.0 68.0
1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

Membrane
Average Plasticiser content in
Tear strength Elongation Shear strength
thickness Hardness EPDM compound
[kg/cm2] [%] [kg/m]
[mm] [%]

2.5 > 82 500 > 815 40 Shore A < 15

29
 Sewage aeration systems
8
Tube diffuser, coarse bubble diffuser
Performance curves and technical data

SOTE
[%]
20 5m
18

16
4m
14

12 3m
10

TM05 3304 1112

8
35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45
Nm³/h
Curve chart is shown at a diffuser length of 606 mm

TM05 3273 1112

Dimensions
L1 D1 W1 H1 Connection
[mm] [mm] [mm] [mm]

SAD.C.2606.T.A.SS 606 28 50 100 ISO G 3/4" male

Material
Diameter of holes (upper row) Diameter of holes (lower row)
Material
[mm] [mm]

SAD.C.2606.T.A.SS Stainless steel AlSi 304 or 316L 4 8

Performance
Nominal airflow per
Nominal airflow Maximum airflow Minimum airflow Head loss1
diffuser
[Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [Nm3/h] [cmWC]
[Nm 3/h]

SAD.C.2606.T.A.SS 35.0 - 45.0 40.0 80.0 7.0 9.5

1. At design airflow and 4 m submerged

30
Sewage aeration systems
9

9. Accessories

Accessories
Membranes
Description Material Product number

Membrane 9" (1-1) for disc diffuser EPDM 97622083

Membrane 9" (1.5-1.5) for disc diffuser EPDM 97622114
Membranes for other diffusers or of different material are available on request.
For more information, contact Grundfos.

Diffusors
Description Material Product number

Body diffusers PP 9" (1.5-1.5) PP 98289845

Body diffusers PP 9" (1-1) PP 98289844
Non-return valve PVDF/POM 97529664
Nipple for tube diffusers AlSi 304 3/4" male AlSi 304 98289865
Anti Friction ring POM 9" POM 98289847
Retainer ring diffusers PP 9" PP 98289846
O-ring for saddle clamp D110 EPDM 98289849
O-ring for 9" diffuser, for use with extra non return valve EPDM 98289850
O-ring for 12" diffuser, for use with extra non return valve EPDM 98289851
O-ring for saddle clamps D60.3, D76.1 and D88.9/90 EPDM 98289848

Supports
Description Material Product number

Anchor bolt mech. M10 x 80 AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289878

Anchor bolt mech. M12 x 110 AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289879
Anchor bolt mech. M16 x 145 AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289880
Supports AlSi 304 D110 - 114.3 L=290 mm AlSi 304 98289632
Supports AlSi 304 D160 - 168.3 L=220 mm AlSi 304 98289633
Supports AlSi 304 D200 - 219.1 L=220 mm AlSi 304 98289813
Supports AlSi 304 D250 - 273.0 L=290 mm AlSi 304 98289817
Supports AlSi 304 D315 - 323.8 L=290 mm AlSi 304 98289819
Supports AlSi 304 D60.3 L=220 mm AlSi 304 98289607
Supports AlSi 304 D76.1 L=220 mm AlSi 304 98289608
Supports AlSi 304 D90 L=220 mm AlSi 304 98289631
Supports D110 - 114.3 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289829
Supports D160 - 168.3 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289830
Supports D200 - 219.1 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289841
Supports D250 - 273.0 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289842
Supports D315 - 323.8 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289843
Supports D60.3 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289826
Supports D76.1 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289827
Supports D90 L=290 mm AlSi 316 AlSi 316 98289828

Purge
Description Material Product number

Manifold purge pipe PVC 98289858

Manual purge kit PVC, cpl. PVC 98289864
Permacap purge kit EPDM/PVC 98289857
Purge hose EPDM/AlSi 304 98289859

31
 Sewage aeration systems
9
Connections
Accessories

Description Material Product number

End Cap PP D110 PVC 98289863

Clamp connection D110 PP 98289861
Clamp saddle D110, O-rings PP-AlSi 316 98289855
Clamp saddle D114.3 - AlSi 316 nuts and bolts, O-rings PP-AlSi 316 98289856
Clamp saddle D60.3 - AlSi 316 nuts and bolts, O-rings PP-AlSi 316 98289852
Clamp saddle D76.1 - AlSi 316 nuts and bolts, O-rings PP-AlSi 316 98289853
Clamp saddle D90 - 88.9 - AlSi 316 nuts and bolts, O-rings PP-AlSi 316 98289854
Connection joint for SS pipes D114.3 AlSi 304 98289875
Connection joint for SS pipes D168.3 AlSi 304 98289876
Connection joint for SS pipes D219.1 AlSi 304 98289877
Connection joint for SS pipes D26.9 AlSi 304 98289870
Connection joint for SS pipes D33.7 AlSi 304 98289871
Connection joint for SS pipes D60.3 AlSi 304 98289872
Connection joint for SS pipes D76.1 AlSi 304 98289873
Connection joint for SS pipes D88.9 AlSi 304 98289874
Gasket D110 quick connection EPDM 98289860
Gasket with centre RF D90 x 28 x 40 x 5 EPDM Ø40 EPDM 98289882
Kit 3/4" connector 2" tube diffusers 100 x 100 pipe AlSi 316 98289867
Kit 3/4" connector 2" tube diffusers 80 x 80 pipe AlSi 316 98289866
Kit 3/4" connector 3" tube diffusers 100 x 100 pipe AlSi 304 98289869
Kit 3/4" connector 3" tube diffusers 80 x 80 pipe AlSi 304 98289868
Reduction PVC M-F 1" x 3/4" PVC 98289881
ABS stub D110 for PVC pipes D110 (connection between pipes) ABS 98289862
Connection for disc diffuser to be glued on laterals. PVC 98289883

Other accessories
Description Material Product number

Service tool disassembly 9" retainer ring workshop tool kit - 97622286
Service tool disassembly 12" retainer ring workshop tool kit - 97622287
Service tool assemblyT90 tool - 97622116

32
Sewage aeration systems
10

10. Further product documentation

Further product documentation

WebCAPS
WebCAPS is a Web-based Computer Aided Product
Selection program available on www.grundfos.com.
WebCAPS contains detailed information on more than
220,000 Grundfos products in more than
30 languages.
Information in WebCAPS is divided into six sections:
• Catalogue
• Literature
• Service
• Sizing
• Replacement
• CAD drawings.

Catalogue

Based on fields of application and pump types, this section

contains the following:
• technical data
• curves (QH, Eta, P1, P2, etc.) which can be adapted to the
density and viscosity of the pumped liquid and show the
number of pumps in operation
• product photos
• dimensional drawings
• wiring diagrams
• quotation texts, etc.

Literature

This section contains all the latest documents of a given pump,

such as
• data booklets
• installation and operating instructions
• service documentation, such as Service kit catalogue and
Service kit instructions
• quick guides
• product brochures.

Service

This section contains an easy-to-use interactive service

catalogue. Here you can find and identify service parts of both
existing and discontinued Grundfos pumps.
Furthermore, the section contains service videos showing you
how to replace service parts.

33
 Sewage aeration systems
10
Further product documentation

Sizing 0 1

This section is based on different fields of application and

installation examples and gives easy step-by-step instructions in
how to size a product:
• Select the most suitable and efficient pump for your
installation.
• Carry out advanced calculations based on energy,
consumption, payback periods, load profiles, life cycle costs,
etc.
• Analyse your selected pump via the built-in life cycle cost tool.
• Determine the flow velocity in wastewater applications, etc.

Replacement

In this section you find a guide to selecting and comparing

replacement data of an installed pump in order to replace the
pump with a more efficient Grundfos pump.
The section contains replacement data of a wide range of pumps
produced by other manufacturers than Grundfos.

Based on an easy step-by-step guide, you can compare

Grundfos pumps with the one you have installed on your site.
When you have specified the installed pump, the guide will
suggest a number of Grundfos pumps which can improve both
comfort and efficiency.

CAD drawings

In this section, it is possible to download 2-dimensional (2D) and

3-dimensional (3D) CAD drawings of most Grundfos pumps.

These formats are available in WebCAPS:

2-dimensional drawings:
• .dxf, wireframe drawings
• .dwg, wireframe drawings.

3-dimensional drawings:
• .dwg, wireframe drawings (without surfaces)
• .stp, solid drawings (with surfaces)
• .eprt, E-drawings.

WinCAPS
WinCAPS is a Windows-based Computer Aided
Product Selection program containing detailed
information on more than 220,000 Grundfos products
in more than 30 languages.
The program contains the same features and functions
as WebCAPS, but is an ideal solution if no internet
connection is available.
WinCAPS is available on DVD and updated once a
year.

Fig. 19 WinCAPS DVD

Subject to alterations.

34
35
 Being responsible is our foundation
Thinking ahead makes it possible
Innovation is the essence

98282816 1212
The name Grundfos, the Grundfos logo, and the payoff Be–Think–Innovate are registrated trademarks
ECM: 1106170 owned by Grundfos Management A/S or Grundfos A/S, Denmark. All rights reserved worldwide.

GRUNDFOS A/S . DK-8850 Bjerringbro . Denmark

Telephone: +45 87 50 14 00
www.grundfos.com