Nature as an engineering teacher: from the Shinkansen train to the Centre-Flo™ screen
Did you know that nature is one of the best sources of inspiration for engineering? Since ancient times, people have been observing natural forms in order to apply them to their creations. The Great Wall of China, for example, was designed using the natural shapes of slopes and hills to optimise construction processes and save materials.
Today, more and more natural structures are inspiring modern technology. One of the most striking examples is Japan’s high-speed Shinkansen train, which posed noise and drag problems for engineers. Watching bats flying through the air without making much noise, engineers modified the rear of the train to reduce air resistance. Then, studying the beak of the tule, a bird that dives noiselessly in the water, they adapted its shape to the front of the train. The result? 10% lower energy consumption, 15% higher speed and a significant reduction in noise in the tunnels.
From the Shinkansen train to Centre-Flo™ screens, this is a great example of biomimetics – where natural solutions are engineered for greater efficiency
Bee Hive – a natural masterpiece of engineering
Another inspiring example is the honeycomb. The hexagonal structure allows maximum use of space and minimises material consumption. It is one of the strongest and most efficient forms of nature, used not only by bees but also in architecture and engineering.
The benefits of this natural design were also recognised by Aqseptence Group engineers who developed the Honeycomb Hex Hi-Flow structure for the Noggerath® Centre-Flo™ CF grille. The honeycomb-shaped screen increases water flow capacity, collects solids more efficiently and reduces energy consumption.
Nature has spent millions of years perfecting this structure, so why not apply it to wastewater treatment technology?
Honeycomb Hi-Flow structure
Why choose Centre-Flo™?
- Maximum permeability and efficiency: thanks to the unique Honeycomb Hi-Flow structure, these screens provide up to 90% open area, which increases water permeability and reduces hydraulic losses.
- Cleaner and safer technology: the design of the grates separates the clean and dirty sides, ensuring that solid particles do not enter the clean water.
- Innovative drive system: a chainless variable drive system on the clean side for lower failure rates and easier maintenance.
- Easy maintenance and durability: the modular design allows the height and width of the grilles to be tailored to specific ducts and the external drive system makes maintenance easier.
- Sustainability and efficiency: the industry’s highest hydraulic capacity ensures better flow control and downstream process protection, making it the perfect choice for both municipal and industrial treatment plants.
“The Centre-Flo™ grate not only improves the efficiency of wastewater treatment but also reduces maintenance costs and increases hydraulic capacity. It is a versatile solution for both new and refurbished treatment plants.
„Centre-Flo™“ creens
Nature’s wisdom for engineering
Biomimetics, the application of nature’s solutions to engineering, enables the development of smarter and more efficient technologies, from the Shinkansen train to Centre-Flo™ screens. Watching bats, seals or bees can inspire solutions that not only save energy and materials, but also improve the efficiency of technology. Nature is a great teacher of engineering, and the Noggerath® Centre-Flo™ screen is another example of how we can learn from its centuries of wisdom.
Contact us to find out how Centre-Flo™ screens can improve your wastewater treatment processes!