Ever heard that expression of something about sticking your nose in and getting it cutoff, well here I go....
IMHO and I repeat IMHO, air flow requires a positive difference in pressure between the source and the exit. Pressure rises at 1 PSIG for about every 27.7 inches of water depth. For example, a pump capable of producing 5 PSIG will pump air in a decreasing amount to a depth of about 11.5 feet but will produce no flow at that depth. It will acheive equilibrium. Any pressure the pump can produce in excess of 5 PSIG at 11.5 feet (minus line and diffuser pressure drops) will determine the actual air flow rate thru the diffuser at 11.5 feet.
My nose hurts already!
