Aeration&Mixing is the sole UK-based distributor of the Nikuni KTM range of Japanese made gas-mixing microbubble generating pumps.  The controlled application of microbubbles and nano bubbles produced by the Nikuni KTM pumps can enhance processes across many disciplines; examples include waste water treatment, DAF plant separation, industrial gas-to-liquid transfer, gas-mixing, gas injection including ozone, evaporation, cleaning-in-process systems, aqua culture, food and chemical manufacture.

Global scientific interest in microbubbles and their applications has a long and varied history often ably assisted by advances in measurement techniques.  As a great deal of early research was conducted in Japan, microbubbles, now more often known as ‘fine bubbles’ are defined as having diameters from 1um to 50um according to the Japanese Fine Bubble Association (FBIA).

Whilst the existence of even smaller tiny bubbles of gasses at the nano level has been supported by many experimental processes, differences of opinion surrounding the interpretation and accuracy of the measurement systems used has limited the wider understanding and practical application of these extraordinary small spheres of gasses.  Recent experiments using dark field measurement techniques have confirmed that nano bubbles, or as they are increasingly now known ‘ultra-fine bubbles’ actually exist.  This research has enabled a greater understanding of the formation and collapse processes and provided pointers as to how they can be used in commercial applications.

Trial Unit - Aeration&Mixing’s range of Nikuni KTM fine bubble generating pumps covers outputs from 1m3/h to 50m3/h.  In conjunction with Nikuni Co. Aeration & Mixing supplies a UK/EU compliant practical single phase 230VAC powered trial unit.  Available with wetted parts in either SS304 or SS316, and fitted with a dedicated air or gas flowmeter, it enables practical experiments and proof of concept activity at pre-commercial scales in the laboratory, plant or field.  As the A&M-Nikuni Trial Unit output of fine bubbles diameters within a fluid stream is in the order of 25um, it provides an excellent platform for structured research and development.

Recent research has further clarified the mechanisms involved in fine bubble collapse, gas-to-liquid transfer and the creation of ultra-fine bubbles.  Previously the ultra-fine bubble had been thought to perhaps be a result of fine bubble shearing or fracturing, whereas research has now indicated the ultra-fine bubble is formed as a result of fine bubble shrinkage.  The result is very large number of ultra-fine bubbles at diameters from 100 to 250nm, perhaps better illustrated as circa 200 million per ml/cubic cm.

The scope for innovative applications making use of these extremely small spheres is extraordinarily wide, particularly considering the range of gasses that can be injected by the Nikuni KTM pumps is extensive.  That the ultra-fine bubble, despite exhibiting neutral buoyancy, collapses when exposed to atmosphere, makes it a very effective means and tool for multiple commercial processes across many markets.

Aeration&Mixing has extensive experience of fine and ultra-fine bubble applications and welcomes enquiries from interested parties in any sector.

For more information please visit:http://www.aerationmixing.co.uk