Some aerator motors face the brunt of daily environmental conditions during wastewater treatment. They are tasked with the biological treatment process, aiding in the oxygenation and mixture of corrosive wastewater in ponds and settling tanks.
The damage of these harsh conditions on motors that move slowly can have long-lasting consequences on the machine.
An average motor lifetime is around 15 years, but most motors don’t even last half as long. You might need to replace them every couple of years. Instead, you can get a reliable farm wastewater aerator motor. Keep reading to know what factors you should consider when you decide to get one!
- Iron construction
The exterior of a farm wastewater aerator motor runs the risk of coming into contact with highly acidic wastewater. If the engine is made of ordinary carbon steel, this acidic water will cause it to corrode and, eventually, dissolve.
To ensure the motor lasts long, the aerator motor should be made with good quality corrosion-resistant materials. A cast iron motor works best since its durability is incomparable, and it comes well within a tight budget.
- Reliable bearings
A reliable aerator motor must have suitable bearings that can endure the thrusts. As the propeller begins to spin, it induces a jab in the engine, which causes pressure on the bearing. If the motor is not secured, it will become loose and turn into a boat motor.
Therefore, the motor bearings should be appropriately sized to take the thrusts without overheating or consuming extra grease.
This requires a delicate balance, especially if the motor is expected to run for an extended period without quick lubrication.
Even motors that are best sealed can only endure so many chemicals, methane and corrosive elements. In a few years, it can cause the windings to be pitted, leading to the need for a replacement motor.
Considering all these factors, end-users will likely seek an aerator motor with little to no maintenance needs. For example, the intervals between the lubrication of the motor should be minimal.
- No usage of dissimilar metals
When two dissimilar metals, such as stainless steel and carbon steel, are mixed to make the motor, it would lead to galvanic corrosion if it comes in contact with a moist environment. This kind of damage will shorten the motor’s life expectancy.
So, look for the kind of motors whose components are made of similar metals. Ensure that the external hardware, motor shaft, and drains are stainless steel.
Be wary of the motors that combine carbon steel parts with stainless steel. There may be some motors that make use of stainless-steel hardware along with epoxy-coated steel spacers between the drip cover and fan guard. This combination will likely corrode with time, exposing the drip cover to oxidation and galvanic corrosion.
Wrapping up
Wastewater aeration can take up around 45%-75% of the overall electricity costs. When you spend so much in an extensive wastewater treatment facility, it is only fair to ensure that the process goes smoothly, lasts long and offers good results.
This cannot happen if your wastewater aerator motor rusts easily and needs high maintenance. Hence, ensure that you consider the above factors before making your pick!