Precision Underwater
Interview with Gerald Glaninger, Managing Director of AQUACONSULT Anlagenbau GmbH
Clean water is essential and its treatment a technical masterpiece. Modern sewage treatment plants must work reliably, be energy-efficient, and sustainable. A crucial factor is aeration, as it often consumes the most energy. AQUACONSULT Anlagenbau GmbH has specialized in precisely this – with precise technology that is in use worldwide, and a clear mission: to make water cleaner and the operation of sewage treatment plants more efficient.
The Austrian company has evolved from a small family business into a globally operating specialist for ventilation systems, which today exports to over 60 countries. The foundation for this: uncompromising quality, precision down to the smallest detail, and the willingness to constantly explore new paths.
Eventful History
AQUACONSULT was founded in 1986 by Dipl.-Ing. Udo Meier. Initially, it had a broad focus on various aspects of wastewater technology, but soon a particular product area emerged as a success factor: the aeration. "The founder was a physicist and delved deeply into the subject," says Managing Director Gerald Glaninger. "He developed mathematical models for optimally transferring oxygen into water. These fundamentals are still valid today." The internationalization began in the early 2000s. The technology was particularly well-received in Japan because it enabled enormous energy savings. In 2006, a crucial step was taken: AQUACONSULT became a 100% subsidiary of the Japanese corporation SANKI Engineering Co., Ltd., which employs about 2,000 people.
"Of course, there were certain fears at the time about what this would mean for our corporate culture," says Gerald Glaninger. "But our owners proceeded very cautiously. Today, we benefit from their clear focus on quality. Quality, without compromise!"
The Art of the Perfect Air Bubble
What AQUACONSULT produces sounds simple, but is highly complex: fine bubble aerators that introduce oxygen into wastewater. "Basically, we do nothing but produce air bubbles," says Gerald Glaninger with a smile. "But in order for the oxygen to be optimally utilized, these bubbles need to be very small, have a large exchange surface and be evenly distributed in the tank." The flagship product is the AEROSTRIP®, a high-precision strip aerator with an extremely low energy requirement. It has been used in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants worldwide since 1995. In addition to the classic strip aerator, there are modular variants and custom-made air distributors – all 'Plug & Play' solutions that are easy to install. The special challenge lies in the manufacturing: "The secret is the precision with which the pores are embedded into the membrane," explains Gerald Glaninger. "This membrane is the most important component. This is exactly where we are starting with the next generation of products." Planned is an aerator version with higher temperature resistance and a membrane that can be replaced on site. The launch is scheduled for next year.
Energy Efficiency as a Competitive Advantage
The benefits for operators of sewage treatment plants are clear: "Aeration is by far the biggest energy consumer in wastewater treatment – often 50% or more," emphasizes Gerald Glaninger. "With our technology, municipalities can significantly reduce their operating costs." In times of rising energy costs, this aspect is more important than ever. AQUACONSULT currently supplies about 2,500 facilities worldwide, supported by around 35 sales partners. In Austria and Germany, distribution is direct, while abroad it is through partners. To best support the partners, AQUACONSULT has developed its own digital tools: from a knowledge database to a sizing program.
Stagnation is not an option for Gerald Glaninger. A new office building is currently being constructed at the Austrian location, which also provides generous areas for research and development, including a large test tank. Production continues to take place in Austria as well. Despite higher production costs domestically, Gerald Glaninger sees this as a clear advantage: "Our customers know that they are getting a durable, high-quality product. And that justifies a price that might be above that of some competitors. The potential is far from exhausted. We still have a few ideas that we will implement."