Innovation Series: Advanced Science (ISSN 2938-9933, CNKI Indexed)

Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Disc-shaped Microporous Aeration Tube Configuration on the Waste Collection Efficiency in Circular Aquaculture Tanks

Can Cui, Meihan Chen, Yuting Jin

School of Fisheries, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan, China

Abstract: The proper configuration of aeration equipment is crucial for maintaining a healthy hydrodynamic environment and efficient self-cleaning in circular Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). While disc-shaped microporous aeration tubes are widely used in commercial tanks, their optimal layout for solid waste removal remains under-researched. This study systematically investigated the effects of aerator layout position (different quadrants and radial distances of 1/2r, 3/4r, and r), aerator quantity, and air intake volume on waste collection efficiency. Using solid waste substitutes and video analysis, the time required for complete particle removal was quantitatively evaluated. The results demonstrate that placing the aeration disc on the side opposite the water inlet yields the optimal waste collection performance, improving efficiency by approximately 60% compared to other locations. Radially, placements closer to the tank center (1/2r) significantly outperformed near-wall positions, which tended to push waste to accumulate at the tank boundary. Furthermore, under a constant total air supply, reducing the number of aerators enhanced the initial mobilization of waste particles. However, increasing the air intake volume excessively disrupted the primary circulating flow field, which is vital for waste transport, ultimately leading to a deterioration in overall collection capacity. It is therefore recommended to position disc-shaped aerators opposite the water inlet and closer to the center in circular RAS tanks, while strictly controlling the air intake to balance oxygenation and hydrodynamics. These findings provide practical, data-driven guidelines for aquaculture practitioners to optimize aeration configurations and enhance self-cleaning efficiency.

Keywords: Disc-shaped aeration tube; RAS; Waste collection efficiency; Layout optimization; Bubble plume

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