24. July 2026

Efficient aeration with oil-free turbo compressors

The biological treatment stage is an essential part of most wastewater treatment processes. During this stage, microorganisms break down organic substances present in the wastewater. By supplying air, the microorganisms receive the oxygen required for their metabolism. This provides them with optimal living conditions, allowing them to multiply and break down contaminants as quickly as possible.

Energy efficiency as a key factor

Compressors are used to supply the required air to the treatment tanks. Injecting air is energy-intensive and therefore accounts for around 80% of the energy consumption in most wastewater treatment plants. Accordingly, energy efficiency plays a decisive role in the selection of new aeration systems.

Turbo compressors: Higher efficiency, lower operating costs

Compared with other compression technologies such as screw compressors, rotary lobe blowers, or side channel blowers, turbo compressors achieve significantly higher efficiencies. As a result, energy consumption can be reduced considerably. Since aeration systems account for approximately 80% of a wastewater treatment plant’s energy consumption and often remain in operation for more than 20 years, substantial savings in operating costs can be achieved over the entire lifetime of the plant.

Celeroton gas bearing technology: Turbo compressors also for small plants

Turbo compressors have therefore long been the technical standard in large wastewater treatment plants. However, the situation has been different for smaller plants. Compression technologies with lower efficiency, such as screw compressors, rotary lobe blowers, or even side channel blowers, are often used because suitable small turbo compressors were not available. Thanks to Celeroton gas bearing technology, robust, smaller turbo compressors are now a reality. This enables smaller wastewater treatment plants to benefit from the advantages of Celeroton technology.

Such smaller industrial and wastewater treatment plants are becoming increasingly important. More and more companies are introducing their own pre-treatment of wastewater before it is discharged into municipal wastewater treatment plants. As a result, demand for compact, energy-efficient, and reliable aeration systems is increasing.

Oil-free, contact-free, low maintenance

On the one hand, Celeroton gas bearing technology operates without lubricants that could clog the aerators or contaminate the water. On the other hand, it is completely contact-free and wear-free during operation, enabling a long service life while almost eliminating maintenance requirements.

Low-noise operation and compact design

Another advantage of gas bearing technology is its low-noise operation. This is particularly beneficial for installations located near workplaces, residential areas, or sensitive production environments. At the same time, the high rotational speed of turbo compressors enables a very compact design with high power density and efficiency.

Source: Energie in Abwasseranlagen, Ministerium für Umwelt, Landwirtschaft, Natur- und Verbraucherschutz des Landes Nordrhein-Westfalen

Mobile aeration systems: Flexible and quickly ready for use

Another field of application is complete mobile aeration systems. These can be installed and commissioned within a short time without extensive construction work. Thanks to their compact and portable design, they can be deployed flexibly at different locations. Mobile aeration systems therefore provide a flexible solution whenever additional capacity is required at short notice or existing systems are temporarily unavailable. They can be used, for example, in emergency situations, as a temporary solution during maintenance work, or for the treatment of temporary contamination.

However, aeration systems are not only used in water treatment. The principle of introducing air or oxygen into water is also applied in aquaculture, fish farming facilities, and large aquariums. There, the additional oxygen supply ensures optimal living conditions for fish and other aquatic organisms. Thanks to their oil-free and low-noise operation, Celeroton turbo compressors are also ideally suited for these demanding applications.

Celeroton technology thus provides an efficient and space-saving solution for mobile water treatment systems. We are happy to advise you on your individual aeration solution. Contact us with the specifications of your application at moc.notorelec@selas or +41 44 250 52 20.