MBR + RO recycling for starch/ethanol factory

A membrane bioreactor (MBR) system and reverse osmosis (RO) equipment will work together to clean up effluent in a starch and ethanol factory in Australia with modules provided by Koch Membrane Systems GmbH.

The overall project, in Nowra, New South Wales, which was awarded to Tenix Alliance Pty Ltd, will expand the Manildra Group’s starch and ethanol production capacity.

“By using MBR systems in combination with reverse osmosis to recycle process water, industrial companies like the Manildra Group can cut wastewater disposal costs and reduce consumption of fresh water,” said Imran Jaferey, business development director, water & wastewater for KMS.

Eight model PSH 1500 Puron membrane filtration modules were selected with the hollow fiber modules judged to be the most technically viable and economical solution. The system design calls for four trains of two MBR modules each, with space available for expansion.

The single header design and the extremely effective aeration system incorporated in the Puron module provide optimal solids management, high flow rate, and reliable operation, while using 50% less energy than other submerged MBR systems.

To polish effluent from the MBR, two MegaMagnum MM6 RO systems will be used. The 18 in diameter elements are designed to reduce the cost, footprint and installation time of RO systems. Each 18 in x 61 in spiral element used for the project contains 2,800 ft² of membrane surface area, compared with the 400 ft² in commonly deployed 8 in x 40 in products.

For more information contact KMS
Tel: +1 888 677 5624
Email: info@kochmembrane.com
Web: www.kochmembrane.com