Cost effective MBR Retrofits in NE USA

There have been several projects throughout the country, where engineers after thorough evaluation including capital cost, operating cost and Net Present Worth over 20 yrs have selected MBR technology over conventional technologies for wastewater treatment. While this is observed for several greenfield projects, it is almost a no-brainer when it comes down to retrofitting existing basins with a MBR. The biggest savings in retrofit applications comes from concrete costs; new concrete basins are not required and the rated capacity of the wastewater treatment plant can be increased a minimum of 3 times the original capacity. No other technology besides MBR technology is capable of producing reuse quality water without the need of tertiary filtration. MBRs are also the preferred solution for meeting low nutrient limits; TN < 3 mg/l and TP < 0.1 mg/l. Besides lower capital cost, the MBR option also simplifies the number of unit operations and routine maintenance work for treatment plant operators. Over the years, the technology has developed and the operating expense of running a MBR system has reduced significantly with reduction in air scour energy demand and smart control systems. This presentation shows several case studies, with information on MBR retrofit projects as well as simplified operation and maintenance of a MBR system.

This presentation is available to AMTA Members only.