History of Air Diffusion Systems

Air Diffusion Systems is a third generation, family-owned company located in Gurnee, Illinois. For more than 60 years, we have specialized in developing and promoting natural and sustainable water and wastewater treatment technologies.

J. Nelson Hinde grew up on the Mississippi River and became fascinated by the rivers ability to treat pollution naturally. Nelson realized that efficient and effective water and wastewater treatment was as simple as duplicating mother nature’s treatment system, the rolling river”. Following World War II, Nelson engineered the first sub-surface fine bubble diffuser in his basement in Highland Park, IL to recreate a river-like environment in bodies of water that were lacking oxygenation and mixing. The ADS fine bubble diffuser is the most cost-efficient and environmentally-friendly aerator available. Our technology can help you save on energy costs while outperforming the competition.Nelson Hinde’s innovative work is continued by his son, John Hinde, and grandson, Tom Hinde.

The solution to water and wastewater pollution is Air Diffusion! Our expert engineers work alongside our prospective clients to understand their unique application and desired treatment objectives. View our list of services for help with your new or existing project.

Our Promise to You

Our mission is to promote the natural treatment of water and wastewater around the world by working with individuals, communities, businesses, and municipalities to meet their needs with innovative technology and over 60 years of engineering and manufacturing expertise. ADS is committed to our clients for the long-haul. We are the only aeration manufacturer to offer a written 5-year product and treatment warranty that our engineered solution will deliver the results you have been searching for, or we will fix it at no additional cost. Every installation is important to us, and this is our way of saying thank-you for becoming part of the ADS family.

Air Diffusion Systems (ADS) products

ADS - Aquaculture Aeration System