MBRs are used in a large variety of applications, some examples are listed below.
Ultrafiltration membranes remove the majority of suspended solids particles and, consequently, replace conventional treatment, such as coagulation/flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, etc. The membrane's ability to retain bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms reduces the size of, or in some cases eliminates disinfection equipment.
Benefits
Operation at higher MLSS => more robust process
Compact foot print
Lower waste sludge production
Ease of operation and less operator attention
Sludge generated from the process requires less dewatering
Disinfection is reduced or eliminated
Provides consistent, superior effluent quality
Effluent is reusable / recyclable
Removes chlorine-resistant Giardia and Cryptosporidium
Applications
On-lot treatment systems for single or multi family homes
Compact containerized package plants
Larger scale MBR plants using on-site concrete basins
Water reuse and recycling
Military camps - mobile package units
Commercial users such as hotels and casinos
Industrial users such as steel plants, glass factories, etc.
Real estate developers
Shipbuilders
Small municipal communities
Areas with stringent wastewater effluent regulations
Industries forced to update current treatment facilities
Areas with dwindling water resources
Cleaning of pond water
Landfill leachate pre-treatment for reverse osmosis
Process water treatment
Achievable operating/effluent values
