Membrane bioreactors (MBR)

What is a membrane bioreactor?

Premier Tech Water and Environment's membrane bioreactor (MBR), the ultra-compact wastewater treatment system for commercial and municipal projects.

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

Premier Tech Water and Environment's MBR systems are suitable for flows up to 5,000 m3 per day and use an ultrafiltration membrane to block fecal coliforms and other pathogens.

Our 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).
 

Our MBR systems feature the next generation in ultrafiltration technology: a membrane that combines the advantages of hollow-fibre and flat-sheet design in one robust solution.

Where are our MBR systems used?

Premier Tech Water and Environment's MBR systems are 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.
 

Equalisation tank (if needed)

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

MBR and final discharge

Top view looking inside Premier Tech Water and Environment's membrane bioreactor wastewater treatment system.

The 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.

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

360° support for MBR projects

Local expertise is the cornerstone of Premier Tech Water and Environment's global team. Together, we have the technical understanding and industry experience to guide every phase of your MBR 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


Operation and maintenance

  • full support from our process and mechanical experts
  • maintenance services from local technicians
  • remote support available
Silver waterfall near river.

Start your MBR project

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