Hydrodynamics of an in-pond raceway system with an aeration plug-flow device for application in aquaculture: an experimental study

An in-pond raceway system (IPRS) is an effective intensive aquaculture practice for regions with high water consumption and limited land resources. Water flow and dissolved oxygen (DO) are important for sustainable aquaculture. Several innovations have been made in IPRS design and operation to increase water exchange and DO concentration; one of these is the aeration plug-flow device (APFD). The APFD is commonly used in China as the only power source for water recirculation in aquaculture ponds. Understanding of the hydrodynamics of the system is necessary to improve the design of the IPRS with APFD. To this end, we performed experimental studies on a model system. We measured three-dimensional velocity at various locations using an Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter. Velocity distribution and turbulence characteristics were assessed, and plug-flow characteristics were analysed. Two patterns of velocity and turbulence in horizontal sections were observed: near the APFD, the water flow was intensively pushed downstream and simultaneously recirculated; farther away, the reflux area gradually decreased and the velocity and turbulence distribution trended towards uniform. Secondary flows occurred in different directions, which improved the diffusion of materials and DO retention. The system is effectively self-circulating, and the plug-flow capability may be scaled up for commercial application.