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The
MicroBead™ Biofilter combines processes for CO2 stripping,
oxygenation, nitrification, and fine solids capture into a
single compact unit. MBB's are operated in a downflow configuration
where influent water is distributed over the top of the media
bed. The water then trickles down through the media and gravity
flows water out of the reactor vessel. Low-cost granular polystyrene
biomedia provides an extremely high surface area per unit
volume of roughly 1,200 ft2/ft3 (3936 m2/m3). Maximimum nitrification
capacity in achieved in a small footprint. MBB's have nitrification
rates similar to high-rate fluidized bed biofilters, however
the MBB™ has significantly lower capital and operating
costs. |
| MicroBead™
Biofilters have several key advantages compared to traditional
fluidized bed biofilters. Firstly, MBB's will not "crash"
during inevitable power outages or pump failures. The nitrifying
bacteria that resides on the highly bouyant microbead media
will survive for prolonged periods and remain aerobic even
during temporary periods with little or no flow. Conversely,
fluidized bed biofilters will turn anaerobic within 15-20
minutes of a loss of flow and nitrifying bacteria will rapidly
begin to die. This event subsequently produces toxic hydrogen
sulfide, which, when reintroduced into the culture tank on
restart, is toxic to fish and can cause fish kills. For the
safety of your valuable livestock, this is a crucial consideration!
MBBs'
cost of operation is roughly 50% less than traditional fluidized
bed biofilters and pressurized bead filters. This is due to
the ability of the non-pressurized MBB to operate with minimal
hydraulic head pressure which allows use of low head pumps,
minimizing pumping costs.
The
capital cost of MBBs is also significantly less than comparable
biofilter technologies since it does not use expensive plastic
bead biomedia, pressurized vessels or complicated internal
manifolds. Smaller scale MBBs are constructed with heavy-duty
non corrosive materials that will last for many years in the
harshest of conditions. The MicroBead™ Biofilter is
a simple, efficient, safe, completely scalable, and cost-effective
biofilter that can be applied to a wide range of recirculating
aquaculture applications. Call us today for sizing assistance
and to request a quote.
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