Optimization of Paddle Wheel Aerator Parameters for Enhanced Aquaculture Water Quality Using Response Surface Methodology Techniques

Abstract

Water quality plays a pivotal role in the efficient management of aquaculture systems, par-
ticularly through the regulation of dissolved oxygen (DO) levels. This study focuses on the
modification and performance evaluation of a locally fabricated mechanical paddle wheel
aerator for optimizing fish pond agitation and oxygenation. Key operational parameters
investigated include rotational speed (300–600 rpm), paddle submersion depth (0.1–0.2
m), and inclination angle (15°–45°). The aerator was tested in a 2,000 L concrete pond
(1×2×1 m) with a stocking density of 300 fish/m³ using unsteady-state aeration tests. Re-
sults were statistically analyzed using Design Expert Software (2022) with ANOVA at p<
0.05. Maximum Standard Aeration Efficiency (SAE) of 5.856 kg O/kWh was achieved at
450 rpm, 0.2 m depth, and 45° inclination, while the highest Standard Oxygen Transfer
Rate (SOTR) was 5.656 kg O/h at 600 rpm. The findings demonstrate that optimized pad-
dle wheel design and configuration significantly improve aeration performance, offering a
cost-effective solution for enhancing water quality in pond-based aquaculture systems.
Water quality plays a pivotal role in the efficient management of aquaculture systems, par-
ticularly through the regulation of dissolved oxygen (DO) levels. This study focuses on the
modification and performance evaluation of a locally fabricated mechanical paddle wheel
aerator for optimizing fish pond agitation and oxygenation. Key operational parameters
investigated include rotational speed (300–600 rpm), paddle submersion depth (0.1–0.2
m), and inclination angle (15°–45°). The aerator was tested in a 2,000 L concrete pond
(1×2×1 m) with a stocking density of 300 fish/m³ using unsteady-state aeration tests. Re-
sults were statistically analyzed using Design Expert Software (2022) with ANOVA at p<
0.05. Maximum Standard Aeration Efficiency (SAE) of 5.856 kg O/kWh was achieved at
450 rpm, 0.2 m depth, and 45° inclination, while the highest Standard Oxygen Transfer
Rate (SOTR) was 5.656 kg O/h at 600 rpm. The findings demonstrate that optimized pad-
dle wheel design and configuration significantly improve aeration performance, offering a
cost-effective solution for enhancing water quality in pond-based aquaculture systems.