Membrane Bioreactor Design

[ivanhoe374]

I am interested in the basic design of MBR systems.

Does anyone know of any good references/ text books etc to get a basic understanding of MBR design?

 

[5lolololo]

Sorry, I don't know

 

[FiltrationEngineer]

I do design work on membrane bioreactors. Depending on the manufacturer / system designs are different, but they are based on activated sludge process that has a membrane system in place of a secondary clarifier.

If you go to Weftec.org or WEF.org you should be able to find some books on MBR's & MBR design.

I would recommend becoming familiar with the activated sludge process including biological nutrient removal.

If you have any specific questions I can probably help.

 

[ivanhoe374]

"I would recommend becoming familiar with the activated sludge process including biological nutrient removal."

I guess this is the first step. I have metcalf and eddy wastewater engineering so i am sure it is in there! Just need to find it!

 

[FiltrationEngineer]

Yes, the activated sludge described in your book is the same for membrane bioreactors. The major differences are teh MLSS concentration for an MBR is about 8,000 to 18,000 mg/L where conventional activated sludge is 1,000 to 4,000 mg/L. This is why MBR's treat larger flows with smaller tanks. The higher MLSS concentration also affects aeration requirements and efficiency.

There is an excellent book on MBR's called "The MBR Book" by Simon Judd (2006) ISBN 1-85617-481-6. It describes the design for MBR's and gives details about different filtration units that are currently offered in the market.

If you have any more specific questions, let me know.

 

[bboysen]

WEFPRES: Membrane Systems for Wastewater Treatment

Off topic, I work on MBR's too, and am a big fan. They make great effluent, which is a good idea if your client is looking to reuse the water.

One thing to be aware of though, MBR has a lot different dynamics than a conventional system, and generally favors growth that doesn't settle well. Even though you get higher MLSS you may end up with dewatering issues.

 

[FiltrationEngineer]

I recently viewed a WEFTEC web seminar on large MBR design that included a survey of existing plants about sludge handling equipment. According to this survey (I think it was of large MBR's in the US) the operators reported no problems with sludge handling or dewatering equipment.

I have also learned of an Austrailian study that suggests that sludge production is lower in MBR's than conventional activated sludge plants.

 

[shanth611]

Hello All,

It's great to now that you all are working on the membrane bioreactors. I've been always passionate about the membrane bioreactors for a long time. I am currently working on a thesis-project on membrane bioreactors. COuld somebody lease share their experience with me or send me a report if probable.

Thank you,
Shanth Belagodu

 

[firebird17]

I need help on this one guys. Can a cushion tank by consider as a secondary storage tank?

 

[bimr]

Somewhat off topic.

What are you talking about?