Innovation & Investment

Estimating biofilter size for RAS systems

Controlling total ammonia-nitrogen (TAN) concentrations is the primary concern when sizing a biofilter for use in a recirculating aquaculture system. Sizing decisions are best based on previous experience with a given biofilter media in a specific biofilter configuration. 

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Flow rate estimation for RAS
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Innovation & Investment

Flow rate estimation for RAS

The water quality in recirculating aquaculture systems is generally a function of the tank size, biomass, feed inputs and waste treatment efficiency. Adequate biofiltration can control the build-up of ammonia-nitrogen and nitrate-nitrogen in the systems. 

TAN, other water quality factors affect nitrification rates in biofilters
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TAN, other water quality factors affect nitrification rates in biofilters

An important criterion when studying biofilters is the conversion rate of total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) to nitrate-nitrogen in production water. Although nitrification rates have been based on media surface areas, they do not always reflect the actual nitrification achieved. Volumetric TAN conversion rate is a direct measure based on filter volume.