Aeration process is the most energy consuming process in wastewater treatment plants. Energy consumed by air blowers usually accounts for 45%–75% of total energy consumption in a typical biological wastewater treatment plant.

Maintaining sufficient amount of dissolved oxygen is crucial for the biological treatment process. However, too much oxygen might be destructive for some other parts of the process. Precise control of oxygen for each aeration zone is the key to achieve treatment performance and optimize energy consumption of blowers.

Distribution of air flow to aeration zones are usually controlled by motorized valves. Unfortunately, most of the valves used in sewage works to control air flow are standard valves which are designed for water applications at the first place. Conventional valves designed for water demonstrate an acceptable performance when the valve needs to be fully open or fully closed. However, as oxygen requirement of each aeration zone varies continuously 24/7, control valves are expected to throttle up or down continuously to make sure that accurate air flow is introduced into relevant zone.

Binder Engineering developed the VACOMASS® system to overcome all difficulties in air distribution systems. VACOMASS® is an innovative technology which comprises of a jet control valve (specifically designed for air), a thermal mass flow meter and a very intelligent control software. VACOMASS® jet valves provide a positioning accuracy & repeatability of 0.2% and thus provide maximum energy efficiency in aeration systems without compromising performance in oxygenation.