What is an Aerotor and how is it different from a normal RBC (Rotating Biological Contactor) and who came up with the idea?
Customer Question:
What is an Aerotor, how does it differ from a normal RBC (Rotating Biological Contactor), and who came up with the idea?
What is an Aerotor?
The BMS Aerotor is a next-generation RBC (Rotating Biological Contactor), combining the advantages of traditional RBC systems with innovative improvements to address their limitations.
Key Features:
A hybrid of active aeration and fixed-film reaction.
Incorporates spiral GRP (Fibreglass) media mounted on a rotating horizontal shaft.
97% of the Aerotor’s surface area is inside the rotor drum, unlike traditional RBCs where the surface area is only on the outside.
Includes an outer drum for active aeration, enhanced surface area, and hydraulic lift.
Fully self-cleansing, eliminating the need for external pumping or sludge returns.
How Does It Work?
Settled Sewage Liquor Entry:
Liquor flows into the first chamber, entering the lift rotor via 50 mm peripheral inlet ports.
Rotational Process:
The rotor spins at 6 rpm, and its internal spiral design lifts the liquor.
The liquor cascades through the 100 mm sandwich sections, contacting the biomass for fixed-film reaction and aeration.
Flow Progression:
Liquor spills into a captive tray and progresses through subsequent compartments via gravity.
A splitter box in the final stage divides flow between a recirculation pipe and the final settlement zone.
Recirculation:
Recirculation is gravity-driven (450 mm lift in the lift rotor).
Flow can be adjusted for treatment optimisation, particularly useful for sites with seasonal flows.
Advanced Treatment Capabilities:
Can achieve nitrification (ammonia reduction) and denitrification (nitrate and total nitrogen reduction) when required.
Differences Between the Aerotor and Traditional RBCs:
| Feature | Aerotor | Traditional RBC |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Area | 97% inside the rotor drum. | Surface area only on the outside of the rotor. |
| Aeration | Integrated active aeration. | Limited aeration capacity. |
| Flow Management | Plug flow system with gravity-driven recirculation. | Lacks advanced flow management capabilities. |
| Self-Cleansing | Yes, no external pumping or sludge returns required. | No, often requires external pumping or sludge management. |
| Shock Load Handling | Effective bypass mechanism to prevent flow bypass during high loads. | Prone to bypass during shock loading conditions. |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance requirements. | Higher maintenance due to uneven biomass growth and wear. |
You can see how the Aerotor works as part of the our class leading Blivet ‘all in one’ Package Sewage Treatment System in the short video below:
Origin of the Aerotor:
The Aerotor was invented by Seamus Butler, Managing Director of BMS, who holds the original patent. It is manufactured in Longford, Ireland, and used in over 50 countries worldwide.
Applications:
The Aerotor is suitable for:
Seasonal flow variations (e.g., schools, hotels, caravan parks).
Sites requiring stringent effluent standards, such as:
BOD & Suspended Solids (SS) <10 mg/l.
Ammonia <5 mg/l.
Phosphorus <1 mg/l.
Total Nitrogen <10 mg/l.
Part of the BMS Blivet System:
The Aerotor is the biological core of the BMS Blivet, a compact, all-in-one sewage treatment solution renowned for its efficiency and high effluent quality.
For further information or to see the Aerotor in action, please contact BMS or view our video demonstration.
About BMS
BMS is a quality manufacturer of package products for wastewater and stormwater treatment:
Established: 1986
Global Reach: Exported to over 50 countries.
Family Business: A third-generation company with deep expertise.
BMS Product Range
BMS provides a wide array of surface water and wastewater treatment products, including:
View the full product catalogue here
Additional Services by BMS
Free Design Service: For sewage treatment, pump stations, and surface water management.
Operation and Maintenance: Full services for existing installations, including repair, advice, and testing.
Free CPD Presentations: Available for sewage treatment and surface water management, delivered at your location.
We would be delighted to discuss any requirements you might have, and we are available to meet you at your convenience. Contact us today.
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