TheWay MBR-20 Datasheet: 20m² PVDF MBR Module

The TheWay MBR-20 is a mid-capacity membrane bioreactor module designed for small-to-medium municipal wastewater treatment plants, decentralized treatment systems, and industrial process water applications. With 20 m² of PVDF hollow fiber membrane area, the MBR-20 offers the same proven membrane chemistry as our flagship MBR-40 in a compact form factor that simplifies installation and reduces capital costs for systems treating up to 50–100 m³/day.

Product Overview

The MBR-20 module is a submerged, vacuum-driven hollow fiber membrane unit optimized for activated sludge filtration. It delivers consistent permeate quality that meets the most stringent discharge and reuse standards. The outside-in flow configuration and hydrophilic PVDF material minimize fouling propensity while maximizing flux stability over extended operating periods. The module's compact footprint makes it ideal for space-constrained installations, packaged treatment plants, and containerized MBR systems.

Key Specifications

Operating Parameters

Performance Curves Description

The MBR-20 shares the same PVDF hollow fiber membrane as the MBR-40, delivering identical per-area performance characteristics. Under typical municipal wastewater conditions (MLSS 8,000–10,000 mg/L, 20 °C), the module sustains 20 LMH at 10–15 kPa TMP over standard maintenance cleaning intervals. The flux-TMP curve remains linear up to the critical flux threshold of approximately 28 LMH. Temperature compensation follows standard viscosity corrections — expect roughly 2.5% flux increase per °C above 20 °C. At lower temperatures (10–15 °C), design flux should be de-rated to 12–18 LMH to maintain sustainable TMP development.

Chemical Compatibility

Storage and Handling Guidelines

The MBR-20 ships dry in factory-sealed packaging. Store indoors at 5–40 °C, protected from direct sunlight and freezing conditions. Maximum stacking height during storage is 4 modules. Before first use, pre-wet the membrane by soaking in clean water for 30 minutes. Perform a bubble-point integrity test at 100 kPa to confirm membrane integrity before commissioning. For preservation after use, clean the module with standard CIP protocol and store submerged in 0.5% sodium bisulfite solution. Replace the preservation solution every 30 days. Handle modules with care — avoid dropping or impact on the fiber bundle ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the MBR-20 compare to the MBR-40?

A: The MBR-20 uses the identical PVDF hollow fiber membrane as the MBR-40. The key difference is membrane area (20 m² vs. 40 m²), module dimensions, and weight. Per-area flux performance, chemical tolerance, and permeate quality are the same across both models.

Q: What is the typical daily output of the MBR-20?

A: At a design flux of 20 LMH, the MBR-20 produces approximately 9.6 m³/day per module (20 m² × 20 L/m²/h × 24 h × 0.85 availability factor considering backwash cycles). Multiple modules can be arranged in parallel cassettes to meet larger capacity requirements.

Q: Can I retrofit the MBR-20 into an existing SBR or conventional activated sludge system?

A: Yes. The MBR-20 can be submerged directly into existing aeration tanks, converting a conventional activated sludge or SBR system into an MBR. This eliminates the need for secondary clarifiers and tertiary filters, significantly improving effluent quality while reducing the plant footprint.

Q: What warranty does TheWay offer on the MBR-20?

A: TheWay Membranes provides a standard 2-year warranty on membrane integrity and module construction, with extended warranty options available. Contact our sales team for project-specific warranty terms.

Contact & Support

For engineering assistance, system sizing, or to request a quotation for the TheWay MBR-20, contact us at mail@ufmembranes.in or call +91 98400 97830. Visit www.thewaymembranes.com for our complete product range.