MBR Pilot Plant Research Beverwijk The Netherlands - Dhv

Research facilities Beverwijk
WWTP
Membrane filtration principle
Microscopic research on
membranes
DHV B.V.
Water
Laan 1914 no. 35
3818 EX Amersfoort
P.O. Box 1132
3800 BC Amersfoort
The Netherlands
T +31 33 4682000
F +31 33 4682801
E info@dhv.nl
www.dhv.com
The main focus was on the biological functioning (organic material and nutrient
removal), the pre-treatment, the sludge characteristics and the membrane operation. In
2002 and 2003, the research was aimed at the optimisation of the chemical cleaning of
the membranes.
The characteristics of the pilot installations are as follows:
Supplier Type Membrane Type Pore
Size
(µm)
Surface
area
(m 2 )
Zenon ZW500a-c-d hollow fibre 0,035 184-60-95 8
Kubota SD / DD flat sheet 0.4 240 10
Mitsubishi 3-laags hollow fibre 0.4 314 7
X-Flow AirFlush tubular 0.03 220 9
Memfis MTR flat sheet 0.035 112 5
Toray DD hollow fibre 0.08 137 5
Huber E rotating flat sheet 0.035 360 15
Design
capacit
y (m 3 /h)
One of the conclusions of the research is that the required pre-treatment is more
extensive than in the case of a conventional treatment system. Beside a common used
fine screen also a micro-sieve is necessary.
The same set of design rules for the biological treatment applies for both a MBR as the
conventional systems. However, the processes happen in quicker succession due to the
shorter hydraulic retention times. This results in consequences for the design.
The investigation of the fouling and cleaning of the membranes show that prevention of
fouling by so-called maintenance cleaning has great advantages compared to the
conventional cleaning methods, when cleaning occurs when the performance is below a
certain setpoint. This results in higher reliability and a lower chemical consumption.
The pilot research at the Beverwijk WWTP has led to positive views on the applicability
of the membrane technology. Furthermore, fundamental changes in the operation are
developed, especially in relation to the cleaning and the control.
As a consequence of this and other factors, it is decided to change the Varsseveld into
a MBR. Thereupon, also the Heenvliet and Ootmarsum WWTPs will be converted into a
MBR.
The whole research on the possible application of the MBR technology is supported by
the water boards, STOWA, consulting engineers, universities, TNO and governmental
departments, in which DHV plays an initiating and coordinating role.