Paddle wheel aerators are a popular type of aerator. They have a very slow aeration rate, but they provide a lot of momentum to water, which causes the pond to become aerated. This can be beneficial when the dissolved oxygen in a pond is low. However, paddle wheel aerators can also erode the pond bottom, increase turbidity, and create scour holes. It is important to make sure that the aerator is placed in a safe, efficient location.

Paddle wheel aerators are usually powered by an electric motor or a self-contained diesel engine. They are designed to aerate a large pond. In general, a good paddle wheel aerator will transfer 1.5 to 2.5 pounds of oxygen per hour.

The best paddlewheel aerators have a high efficiency rating, and a very good reducer design. Also, the aerator should have an adjustable paddle depth for the best energy use. Increasing the depth of the paddle can also enhance the speed of the aeration cycle, which increases oxygen transfer.

Typically, the paddles of a paddle wheel aerator are either rectangular, triangular, or concave. Some commercial designs feature a spherical or spiral pattern around the drum. Most paddle wheel aerators are submerged in 3 to 6 inches of water, but they can be placed in shallower waters if necessary.

A good PTO-powered paddle wheel aerator can produce strong horizontal currents. This is especially useful in emergency situations, as it can stir the pond. For example, aerators with splashing paddle wheels can create a current in the pond, which can attract fish. Alternatively, some units have an in-line pinion-and-bullgear system, which reduces the rotation speed of the PTO shaft. These are less efficient than other types of aerators, but can be very useful when an emergency arises.

Tractor PTO-powered paddlewheels can be a good choice when you need a large, portable aerator. They are not as energy-efficient as other types of aerators, but they are often more flexible and can be easily placed anywhere along the bank. Because of their flexibility, they can be used in different modes to produce a variety of circulation cells.

In addition to creating a strong horizontal current, paddlewheel aerators can mix the surface and bottom layers of a pond. However, these aerators are generally not effective in vertical mixing. Instead, they are primarily used to aerate the top layer of the pond.

PTO-powered paddlewheel aerators are primarily used in ponds that are at a shallow depth. To enhance the oxygen transfer, a paddle depth of 5 to 6 inches is recommended. Adding a deeper paddle will also increase the fuel consumption. An increasing number of culturists prefer to use paddlewheel aerators that are powered by electric motors.

Commercial catfish farmers commonly use aerators that are 10 to 15 horsepower. Usually, they have two aerators. Using multiple aerators can improve the aeration efficiency of a pond. When aerators are used in a pond, it is essential to choose a model that is equipped with a motor that draws 90 percent of its full load amperage rating.

1HP 2 impeller paddle wheel aerator