Membrane bioreactors (MBR)

white logo rewatec

What is a membrane bioreactor?

A membrane bioreactor (MBR) is a compact, highly effective solution for commercial and municipal wastewater treatment projects near ecologically sensitive areas.

Suitable for flows of up to 4,000 m3 per day, the Rewatec MBR system uses a unique ultrafiltration membrane to block fecal coliforms and other wastewater pathogens.

Membrane bioreactor mbr septic system what is a membrane bioreactor

The membrane has pores that are just 0.4 µm wide, making it so effective that treated effluent can be reused for non-potable applications (where allowed).
 

Advantages

The Rewatec MBR offers an enviable list of advantages:

  • up to 75% smaller than other systems
  • disinfects without UV treatment
  • removes nitrogen and phosphorus
  • rigid flat-sheet membrane resists breakage
  • membrane pore uniformity increases flux rate

Where are our MBR systems used?

The Rewatec MBR system is most often a solution for:

  • residential developments
  • municipal developments
  • schools
  • campgrounds and parks
  • roadside rest areas
  • work camps
  • sites near ecologically sensitive areas
  • installations with faulty membranes

How do our MBR systems work?

Primary treatment tank or fine screen

In typical installations, wastewater enters a primary treatment tank that allows liquids to separate from solids. Primary solids settle on the bottom of the tank and are removed by a septic pumper as often as needed.

Liquids pass through an integrated effluent filter before leaving the primary treatment tank. The filter captures suspended solids that could clog system components downstream.

Sometimes a fine screen takes the place of the primary treatment tank, acting as a simple physical barrier to remove solids from wastewater.
 

Equalization tank (if needed)

After primary treatment, liquids move downstream into an equalization tank. This tank collects wastewater from daily peak-use periods and sends controlled doses to the Rewatec MBR.
 

Rewatec MBR and final discharge

The Rewatec MBR combines two treatment processes in one tank to produce effluent that meets the most stringent standards.

In the first step, aeration cycles provide oxygen to microorganisms that feed on organic pollutants. As microorganisms increase in number, they mix with other solids to form activated sludge — the biomass that treats incoming wastewater.

Membrane bioreactor mbr septic system rewatec mbr and final discharge

 

Biomass remains in the tank, eventually reaching concentrations up to three times higher than those found in traditional activated sludge systems. This key feature minimizes the size of the installation, making the Rewatec MBR system the most compact solution available.

In the second step, a low-pressure vacuum sucks wastewater through the pores of a rigid ultrafiltration membrane that blocks even the most persistent pollutants. Clarified wastewater is then pumped out of the tank and safely discharged into the environment.

The fine bubbles that aerate the biological process are also used to scour the membrane, preventing surface clogging and getting maximum value for all energy consumed.

Premier Tech’s 360° support

Local expertise is the cornerstone of our global team. Together, we have the technical understanding and industry experience to guide every phase of your project.
 

Design

  • engineering support to guarantee the best solution
  • help with technical drawings and diagrams
  • advice for electromechanical equipment
  • control panel design, including electrical diagrams
     

Construction and installation

  • dedicated project managers
  • fast answers to all questions
  • on-site support to ensure high-quality installations
  • real-time troubleshooting
     

Start-up

  • commissioning by a qualified technician
  • verification of installation success
  • rapid responses to any areas of concern
     

Maintenance

  • full support from our process and mechanical experts
  • maintenance services from local technicians
  • remote support available

Find near you

Choose your local website to discover Rewatec MBR products and services near you.