(57) Method and apparatus are disclosed which are used to mix two fluids, two gases, or
a fluid and a gas. The preferred embodiment is useful primarily for the aeration of
water but can be used to mix any gas with a liquid. The method involves creating relative
movement between an elongate element and a fluid whereby a low-pressure area will
be developed on the lee side of the element. The gas is then admitted to the low-pressure
area and bubbles are formed. The element is preferably pointed to form a spike, and
the bubbles are moved along the spike by a component of the relative motion toward
the tip. When the bubble reaches the tip it will be detached and entrained in the
fluid. When a plurality of spikes is used, significant efficiencies are observed.
One embodiment employs spikes mounted to a rotating body and other embodiments use
arrays of parallel spikes.
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