How MBRs Enhance and Support Traditional Sewage Treatment

Membrane bioreactors (MBRs) are an increasingly popular technology for treating sewage in wastewater treatment plants. This method combines membrane filtration with biotechnology, effectively treating various types of wastewater, including municipal, industrial, and commercial effluents. MBRs offer several advantages over conventional activated sludge (CAS) technologies, making them a highly effective choice for sewage treatment.

In this article, we will explore the different aspects of membrane bioreactor wastewater treatment and understand how MBRs play a crucial role in enhancing traditional sewage treatment.

What is a Membrane Bioreactor?

A membrane bioreactor is a hybrid system that integrates biological processes with membrane filtration. It combines activated sludge processes with ultrafiltration or microfiltration membranes, making it widely used in both municipal and industrial wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs).

Membrane: In the MBR process, the membrane acts as a solid-liquid separation device, retaining the biomass within the bioreactor while allowing the treated effluent to be discharged. This is similar to the role of clarifiers in the conventional activated sludge process. MBRs typically use ultrafiltration membranes, which can effectively remove colloids and viruses, while having a lower fouling tendency.

Types of Membranes: MBRs can leverage three major types of membrane geometries:

Hollow Fibre (HF)
Flat Sheet (FS)
Tubular or Multi-tubular (MT)

Bioreactor: A bioreactor is designed to support a biologically active environment where microorganisms can thrive and break down organic matter. The bioreactor environment can be:

Aerobic: For oxidizing organic matter and ammonia.
Anoxic: For denitrification.
Anaerobic: For breaking down organic matter without oxygen.

There are three main types of bioreactors:

Suspended Growth: Biomass grows in flocs.
Attached Growth: Biomass attaches to carriers.
Hybrid: Combines both suspended and attached growth.

Key Components of MBR Technology:

Aeration System: Supplies oxygen to support aerobic microorganisms.
Scouring Mechanisms: Techniques like scouring and backwashing prevent clogging and maintain membrane effectiveness.
Control System: Manages aeration, filtration, and cleaning for optimal performance.

How is MBR Better than CAS?

Membrane bioreactor technology offers several advantages over Conventional Activated Sludge (CAS) technology:

Smaller Footprint: MBRs eliminate the need for a sedimentation tank, resulting in a more compact design.
Higher Mixed Liquor Suspended Solid (MLSS) Concentration: MBRs do not limit MLSS concentration, leading to reduced Waste Activated Sludge generation.
Better Solid Retention Time (SRT) Control: Without a secondary sedimentation tank, MBRs allow for fine control of SRT, enhancing treatment efficiency.
Improved Effluent Quality: Longer SRT in MBRs generally results in better effluent quality compared to CAS.
Enhanced Filtration: MBR membranes have smaller pore sizes than solids, producing higher-quality treated effluent.

Why Consider MBR for Sewage Treatment?

MBRs are particularly attractive for sewage treatment in space-constrained areas where high-quality treated water is needed, especially for reuse. They are widely implemented in various industries, including food and beverage, and are effective for treating both easily biodegradable and highly refractory wastewaters, such as landfill leachate and pharmaceutical effluents.

Conclusion

The Membrane Bioreactor technology provides superior water treatment quality, suitable for various industrial applications. At Wipro Water, we have extensive experience in installing wastewater treatment systems that yield high-quality water. We are committed to leveraging technological solutions that promote industrial growth while adhering to sustainability principles.

FAQs

What is MBR and how does it differ from traditional sewage treatment methods?

Membrane Bioreactor technology uses membranes in a specially designed chamber to treat sewage and produce high-quality water, effectively removing toxic compounds and microorganisms. Unlike traditional methods, it eliminates the need for separate sedimentation and filtration tanks.

What are the major advantages of using MBRs in sewage treatment compared to traditional methods?

The primary advantages of MBR technology over traditional methods include higher effluent quality, a smaller carbon footprint, reduced sludge production, and improved energy efficiency.