A degasser or aeration chamber is an integral component of water treatment systems, serving the purpose of removing dissolved gases from water. This process is crucial for improving water quality and addressing various concerns related to gas content. Let's explore the purpose and functioning of a degasser or aeration chamber in detail:

Purpose of a Degasser or Aeration Chamber:

The primary purpose of a degasser or aeration chamber is to remove dissolved gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), from water. These gases can cause several issues, including:

Corrosion: Dissolved gases can contribute to the corrosion of pipes, fittings, and equipment in water distribution systems. By removing these gases, the degasser or aeration chamber helps prevent damage to infrastructure and extends the lifespan of equipment.

Odor and Taste: Certain gases, like hydrogen sulfide, can produce unpleasant odors and flavors in water. The degasser or aeration chamber eliminates these gases, enhancing the overall taste and odor profile of the treated water.

Water Quality: Dissolved gases can affect the overall quality of water, making it less desirable for various applications, including drinking water, industrial processes, and agricultural uses. The removal of these gases improves water quality and ensures its suitability for intended purposes.

Functioning of a Degasser or Aeration Chamber:

The functioning of a degasser or aeration chamber involves exposing water to air or a specific gas-stripping process, allowing the dissolved gases to be released into the atmosphere. The process typically includes the following steps:

Contact Time: Water is introduced into the degasser or aeration chamber, providing sufficient contact time with air or a gas-stripping medium. This contact time allows the dissolved gases to come into equilibrium with the air or medium.

Surface Area: The water is exposed to a large surface area, either through cascading over packing materials or through the use of specialized devices that increase the surface area-to-volume ratio. This maximizes the interaction between the water and the air or medium, facilitating the release of dissolved gases.

Gas Transfer: During the contact time, the dissolved gases in the water migrate from the liquid phase to the gas phase. This transfer occurs due to the concentration gradient between the dissolved gases in the water and the lower concentration of gases in the air or medium.

Venting: The released gases, now present in the gas phase, are vented out of the degasser or aeration chamber. This ensures their removal from the treated water.

By effectively removing dissolved gases through the degasser or aeration chamber, the water treatment system achieves improved water quality, reduced corrosion risks, and enhanced taste and odor characteristics.

In conclusion, a degasser or aeration chamber plays a vital role in water treatment systems by removing dissolved gases. This process helps prevent corrosion, eliminates unpleasant odors and tastes, and enhances overall water quality. The functioning of a degasser or aeration chamber involves exposing water to air or a gas-stripping process, allowing the dissolved gases to be released into the atmosphere.