How do I build a solar direct aeration system?

I much enjoyed your paper on solare aeration. I am in the process of trying to put together a direct system myself. You refere to the "Thomas line of solar pumps". I have searched online for these, but haven't found anything exactly like that. Are you refering to the DC mini air compressors the Thomas pump manufactures?

If so, are there particular models which are more appropriate for the solar aeration use. I have seen the Thomas 5010 which is rated at .134 CFM and 280 mA. That seems a little on the small size. I have also seen the Thomas model 107CDC/C20 which is rated at 1.4 CFM, but 7amps which seems like a lot for a direct solar system.

Any thoughts or information would be greatly appreciated.

I have found what you said in your paper to be true concerning the problem of finding dealers with the know how to help put such a system together.

asked by anonymous

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1 Answer

Hello,

The Thomas pumps were the DC pumps of choice we used in our custom DC (solar) aeration systems. We found them to be rather weak as far as CFM and thus often recommended windmills instead of solar direct systems but there are some high CFM pumps available. Our PRDC001 will give you approx 1 CFM at 8 PSI and the PRDC002 will give you approx 2.5 CFM at 8 PSI. We use these extensively for solar DC powered aeration projects.

These pumps are the best we've used. We use a 12V American-made, oiless compressors that provide high volume at low pressure (10 psi max). Our small unit runs over 6 hours on a standard car battery; the larger pump is a little more demanding. Our compressors come with 9" pigtail wire, two feet of 3/8" ID outlet hose and inlet filters. Warranty is one year. Shipping is extra. PRDC001 - Small 12V DC pump (9 pounds ship weight) PRDC002 - Large 12V DC pump (15 pounds ship weight)

We share your frustration at finding qualified local solar aeration dealers. Over the years we have had a few enterprises create solar aerators for their clients. I believe the cost involved is always higher than people expect.

If you would like to order our DC pumps : Battery Operated Air Compressors for Pond Aeration

The Pond Report

answered by TPR