Flat-plate MBR technology ensures robust performance and minimal maintenance
CST Wastewater Solutions’ latest MBR (membrane biological reactor) wastewater treatment, the Smith and Loveless Titan MBR, is a robust and efficient low-maintenance system for municipal and industrial applications.
The innovative pre-engineered TITAN MBR QUB™ combines the wastewater treatment engineering expertise of Smith & Loveless with submerged flat-plate membrane technology that ensures high permeability and flux rates.
“This combination yields a dynamic MBR system that provides end-users with high quality treatment performance, minimal operational requirements and a robust design that will stand the test of time,” said Michael Bambridge, managing director of CST Wastewater Solutions.
The TITAN MBR’s™ by Smith & Loveless flat-plate membrane design results in less wear and tear than hollow-fibre types and can easily be cleaned in place. Air scouring prevents fouling and eliminates the need for back-pulsing pumping equipment.
Pressure created by gravity drives the flow through the membranes. Clean water discharges into a clearwell, while blocked solids remain suspended in the aeration zone. Diffusers beneath the module scour the membranes while also providing an air supply to the bacteria.
TITAN MBR™ provides long-term durability, according to CST Wastewater Solutions. The membrane is composed of PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) and non-woven polyester fabric. Vertical membrane surfaces do not touch each other during operation. The design prevents breakage experienced in other designs and produces higher flux rates over time.
The TITAN MBR™ membranes eliminate clogging problems experienced in hollow-fibre designs. Their smooth, continuous surfaces prevent the build up of solids that result from hollow fibres being bundled by stringy solids such as hair. The flat surfaces also facilitate air scouring in the aeration zone much more effectively than hollow-fibre designs.
The membranes maintain high permeability and flux rates even at peak-day rates. They stack within a fully submerged module inside the aeration zone. Chemical cleaning occurs efficiently in place – typically on a semi-annual basis – with simple chemical injection.
Flat-plate membranes use less chemicals and equipment than other designs, according to the supplier.
TITAN MBR™ provides effluent quality of < 3 mg/L BOD and < 1 mg/L TSS. Turbidity is < 2 NTU. TKN is < 2 mg/L and NH3 is < 1 mg/L.
Smith and Loveless have installed proven packaged systems in hundreds of Australasian installations, ranging from municipal and private developments to industrial and commercial sectors as well as specialized marine uses. This represents the latest in the range of packaged or pre-engineered plants from Smith and Loveless, and the Titan MBR continues the advances.
