Koch Raises the MBR Bar

Koch Membrane Systems, Inc. (KMS), developer and manufacturer of innovative membranes and filtration systems, will unveil its new 1,500-sq m PURON module for membrane bioreactor (MBR) applications this week. The improved submerged membrane module features greater packing density, lower energy costs for aeration and simplified installation while providing even greater compatibility with other commercially available systems.

PURON MBR modules can now be ordered in configurations with 1,500, 500, 235 or 30 sq m of membrane area. The introduction of the new 1,500-sq m module is particularly significant because it was designed specifically for large-scale MBR projects. An optimized permeate extraction manifold and air supply lines reduce the number of piping connections during installation.

To simplify membrane cleaning and maintenance, the central aeration system and bottom header have both been redesigned. The new aeration system reduces the flow rate during air scouring, decreasing air usage by up to 20% over the original design.

The PURON system features a single header with hollow fibers that are fixed only at the bottom. The sealed upper end of the fibers is allowed to float freely, eliminating the buildup of hair and fibrous materials that can clog the upper end of membrane fibers in MBR designs that employ top and bottom headers. Solids and particulates, including bacteria, are retained by the membrane and remain on the outside; permeate is drawn through the membrane to the inside of the fibers. This outside-to-inside technology provides optimal solids management and a high flow rate while using up to 50% less energy than other MBR systems.

MBR systems with submerged membrane modules are increasingly used for some of the toughest wastewater treatment applications, including sewage treatment for municipalities and wastewater treatment for beverage, textile, food, paper and chemical industries. By using MBR systems to recycle process water, industrial companies cut wastewater disposal costs and reduce freshwater consumption.

For more information, visit booth No. 6057 or www.kochmembrane.com.

Source: Koch Membranes