Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs) represent the wastewater treatment technology of the future, in which membrane filtration is combined with biological treatment to provide highly efficient and space-efficient systems. Their capability to process industrial as well as municipal effluent has also created a buzz worldwide. However, efficiency and life span of Membrane Bioreactors completely rely on appropriate operation and avoiding overall technical mistakes.
At Primem, we are experts in designing and producing high-performing PVDF hollow fiber membrane and submerged membrane modules, which are widely utilized in Membrane Bioreactors. We possess more than 100 successful reference cases with some in operation for more than 10 years without a single replacement of the membrane modules. We know how to operate a successful MBR system.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to avoid common pitfalls in MBR operation—drawn from real-world experience and backed by proven technologies used in our membrane systems.
Mistake: Overlooking Membrane Quality and Design
One of the most frequent mistakes is using membranes that are not tailored to the effluent’s characteristics. Inconsistent quality and poor resistance to fouling or harsh chemicals can lead to early failure, increased cleaning frequency, and higher operational costs.
How to Prevent
We provide stable, homogenous PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) hollow fiber membranes, industrial, oxidation, and heat fouling-resistant stable polymer. More porous, anti-fouling, and high-flux, our membranes are designed for long-term usage and long-lasting in Membrane Bioreactors.
Mistake: Ignoring Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
Even with the application of the optimum membrane material, system performance may readily be jeopardized by lack of monitoring from time to time for the same. The operators will overlook measurement of transmembrane pressure (TMP), and silent membrane fouling will take place.
Prevention:
Time your operation to deliver routine TMP and flux monitoring. Pressure spikes are easily explained by low pressure (0.05 MPa) being best utilized by our membranes, and no inferences need to be made regarding fouling. Good maintenance and cleaning habits, as well as system design and water quality, can be significant contributors to module life extension.
Mistake: Mismatched Module Sizing and Configuration
Selecting an off-the-shelf module in case your system actually needs non-standard sizes can lead to wasteful configurations, inefficient flow dynamics, and even dead space in the bioreactor.
Prevention Measures:
We provide not just standard modules but also non-standardized submerged membrane modules based on your specific project requirements. Our willingness to offer flexible sizing and customized configurations ensures proper membrane integration and optimal MBR system performance.
Mistake: Operations Beyond Referred-to Conditions
Operating out of recommended temperature, pH, or pressure can permanently damage membranes and damage the entire treatment system.
Prevention:
PVDF membranes operated by us can be used between a temperature range of 5–40°C and pH range of 2–10, which is in agreement with the broad spectrum of municipal and industrial applications. Operate your system always within these limits to prevent thermal or chemical degradations.
Mistake: Delaying Cleaning and Recovery
The operators fail to initiate membrane cleaning on time or use the improper chemicals, leading to permanent fouling and low performance.
Avoidance:
Our hollow fiber membranes are easy to clean and have been continuously operated on high-strength wastewater for over a decade without batch replacement. Follow cleaning practices material compatible with the membrane to still realize extended performance without loss.
Why Choose Primem?
We believe in quality, flexibility, and reliability. Our ISO9001:2015-approved plant and more than 18 years of experience in membranes ensure each membrane product of uncompromising quality. With 16 patents and customers worldwide in more than 15 countries, our international reputation stands for itself.
Our submerged membrane modules are an integral part of MBR installations even in the most severe wastewater conditions like palm oil effluent treatment processes involving high COD, TDS, and hardness. Our systems functioned well for more than 10 years without membrane replacement—once again, proof of our membrane life.
Besides MBR uses, our company also offers a range of Household Water Purifiers that have the same quality standard. Since our purifiers eliminate bacteria and preserve healthy minerals, they are energy saving, cost saving, and provide safe water to each household worldwide.
When you decide to work with us, you are selecting a long-term membrane performance, best-in-class reliability, and operating excellence partner—treat industrial wastewater or supply clean water with Household Water Purifiers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why are your membranes suitable for long-term MBR applications?
Our membranes are made of high-porosity premium PVDF that has excellent chemical resistance and antifouling property. Our systems have already shown more than 10 years of operation in harsh conditions, even with high-COD wastewater without changing the membrane.
- Can you customize submerged membrane modules for non-standard MBR configurations?
Yes. Apart from our regular modules, we can also provide custom-sized submerged membrane modules to suit customers’ requirements for best system integration and operation performance.
- Are your Household Water Purifiers built using the same membrane technology?
Yes. Our Household Water Purifiers use PVDF hollow fiber membranes that effectively remove bacteria while maintaining essential trace elements. They are designed to be long-lasting, cost-efficient, and easy to maintain.