Life Cycle Cost Reduction in MBR Plant

Membrane bioreactor technical advantages were, at one time, considered to come with high life cycle cost. By combining three unique processes designed to reduce the life cycle costs, membrane bioreactor technology can now be considered a truly “green” approach to wastewater treatment. The processes include a non-traditional activated sludge process, biosolids minimization process, and ultrafiltration membrane separation process with a plug flow air scouring system. Compared to conventional processes such as Modified Ludzack Ettinger activated sludge with fine bubble aeration, aerobic digestion and bubble flow membrane air scouring systems, these combined processes result in a total energy savings of between 43% and 54%. Costs of managing waste solids can be reduced by 35% to 39%. Total life cycle cost savings of 40% to 48%.