Rotary Lobe Blowers

Overview

Rotary blowers are critical components in the aeration process of wastewater treatment plants. They function by forcing air into the water, promoting the growth of aerobic bacteria which is essential in breaking down the organic matter present in the wastewater. This blower type operates through the rotation of two lobes or impellers within a casing, which draw in air and then discharge it under pressure.

Common Applications
  • Aeration tanks: For biological treatment of wastewater through the proliferation of aerobic bacteria.
  • Backwashing filters: To clean filters in water treatment plants.
  • Pneumatic conveying: For the transportation of sludge or other solids within the plant.
Operator Experience
  • Daily: Monitoring of blower pressure and temperature.
  • Weekly: Checking lubricant levels and conditions of bearings.
  • Annually: Inspecting and replacing worn parts as necessary.
  • Safety considerations include ensuring that the blower is not operated beyond its specified pressure range to avoid mechanical failure.
Major Components
  • Impellers/Lobes: These rotate to draw in and discharge air. The size and shape of the impellers affect the blower's performance and efficiency.
  • Casing: This houses the impellers and is typically made of cast iron for durability.
  • Inlet and Outlet Ports: These are where air is drawn in and discharged. The size of these ports influences the capacity of the blower.
  • Shaft and Bearings: These support the rotation of the impellers. The quality of these components is crucial for the longevity of the blower.
Design Criteria
  • Airflow rate (typically in cubic feet per minute or CFM)
  • Discharge pressure (typically in pounds per square inch or psi)
  • Inlet air temperature and altitude (for accurate performance calculations)
Key Design Decisions
Specification Section
  • MasterFormat Division 44 - Pollution and Waste Control Equipment, Section 44 43 13 - Rotary Blowers.
Submittal + Construction Considerations
Popular Manufacturers and Models
  • Gardner Denver: Model RBS
  • Atlas Copco: Model ZS
  • Howden: Model Roots Blowers
Alternative Equipment
  • Centrifugal Blowers: These can handle larger flow rates but are less energy-efficient than rotary blowers. They may be preferred in large wastewater treatment plants.
  • High-Speed Turbo Blowers: These are more energy-efficient but also more expensive than rotary blowers. They may be preferred when energy savings outweigh the higher initial cost.
Real-World Tips
Connect with Local Representative
If you need help with sizing, system compatibility,  maintenance planning, or sourcing, connect with your local manufacturer's representative. They can assist you in selecting the right equipment for your specific application and site conditions.

Connect with a Local Distributor

If you need help with sizing, system compatibility,  maintenance planning, or sourcing, connect with your local manufacturer's representative. They can assist you in selecting the right equipment for your specific application and site conditions.