STERAPORE 5000 Series Instruction Manual - Ver.2

STERAPORE™ 5000 Series Instruction Manual
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Introduction
This instruction manual describes the outlines, designs, installation, operation, and maintenance of
STERAPORE™ 5000 Series.
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[Notes]
Read this manual carefully before using the products shown on this manual and keep it in a safe place for
future reference.
The products are designed to be used for the treatment of domestic and industrial wastewater by
membrane bioreactor (MBR, hereinafter). Do not use the products for other purposes.
Use the products in conformity with applicable laws where its use is limited by law.
Product specifications, features, and directions are subject to change without notice.
Do not drink water treated by this product.
Do not take bath or shower using water treated by this product.
Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of the products for longer-term normal operation.
Maintain the MLSS concentration within the recommended applicable range of 5,000 to 12,000 mg/L
(min: 3,000 mg/L, max: 15,000 mg/L). Higher MLSS concentration shall result in a rise in viscosity, which
lowers membrane's detergency, and causes sludge to stick between hollow-fiber membranes, which shall
result in an increase in trans membrane pressure and damage to elements.
The trans membrane pressure shall not exceed -50 kPa at any time. Installing a limiter is strongly
recommended to monitor the trans membrane pressure.
3 2
Maintain the amount of membrane scour aeration within the standard range of 100 to 150 Nm /(m ·h). If
3 2
it reaches 200 Nm /(m ·h) or greater, elements shall be damaged.
Chemicals including sodium hypochlorite, oxalic acid, citric acid, hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid shall
be used to clean elements. Handle and dispose of such chemicals properly in accordance with Material
Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). MSDS shall be obtained from suppliers of chemicals.
Elements shall be stored and transported within the temperature range of 0 to 40°C in dry condition.
Move modules with care to avoid them bumping into other equipments.
Attach a lifting chain or wire rope to modules as short as possible. If the chain or rope touches the upper
part of modules, elements shall be worn or damaged due to oscillation caused by aeration.
Hold an element by support pipes on the both sides or permeate header and not by membrane. Move
elements with care to avoid tools, pipes, or other machines being caught by membrane.
Remove screenings adhering to elements with care not to damage membrane.
Do not use anything like high pressure washers to wash out elements to avoid membrane damages.
Do not perform construction work near the products. Keep them away from the fire. A spark from welding
or sanding shall damage membrane. Apply appropriate protection to the products when construction
work shall be done near them.
Do not let such chemicals be in contact with the products that degrades hollow-fiber membrane (PVDF),
sealant (polyurethane), and element permeate header (ABS) which compose an element.
Our standard material used for element support pipe and module is SUS304. Do not expose the products
to corrosive conditions which shall causeSUS304's corrosion.
Do not use the products to treat wastewater which contains organic solvents and/or chemicals that can
swell, damage, or degrade the products. See the table at the end of this manual for chemical resistance of
the products.
Dispose of elements and modules as industrial waste in accordance with laws and local ordinances.
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[Glossary]
This glossary explains the meaning of terms as used in this manual and may therefore differ from the general
use.
1 Hollow-fiber Membrane
Membranes molded into a hollow thread shape with 3 to 5 mm in diameter.
2 Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) (See Chapter 2.4 and Chapter 4.1)

Biological treatment process for organic wastewater which replaces final sedimentation tank in activated sludge
process by membrane process to perform solid-liquid separation. Microfiltration membrane (MF membrane)
and ultrafiltration membrane (UF membrane) are mainly used as separator. MBR enables upgrading sewage
treatment, downsizing and simplifying treatment facilities, and recycling treated water.
3 Membrane Separation Device

A membrane separation device refers to a module that contains elements assembled of hollow-fiber
membranes within its body frame.
A module consists of a membrane part filled with hollow-fiber membranes and a diffuser part. (See the diagram
below)
Aeration from the diffuser part cleans hollow-fiber membranes to enable stable filtration. (See Chapter 2.6)
A variety of modules are available with different element sizes and number of elements. (See Chapter 1)
Element
SADF2590C
SADF1590C
Membrane Part
SADF0690B
Diffuser Part
Element Module
4 Flux (See Chapter 2.5)

Permeate flow per unit area of membrane per unit time (m3/(m²·day) )
Linear velocity (LV) is an equivalent term.
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5 Chemical Cleaning (See Chapter 2.7)
An operation for cleaning the inside of the filtration device with chemical for its hygiene maintenance or for
recovering the filtration performance of membranes which has declined by fouling.
Chemical cleaning is performed either by washing the permeate side (inside of a membrane) with chemical
cleaning solution (in-line cleaning) or by soaking a module or element directly in chemical cleaning solution
(chemical soak cleaning).
In-line cleaning of the products shall be performed either as maintenance cleaning to be regularly conducted
for the stable operation of the products or as recovery cleaning for the purpose of recovering trans membrane
pressure.
6 Raw Water (See Chapter 2.1)

Although the term “raw water” is generally used to refer to wastewater flowing into a treatment facility, it is
used in this manual to refer to wastewater pretreated by bar screens or similar methods.
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[Table of Contents]
CHAPTER 1 SPECIFICATIONS 8
1. ELEMENT SPECIFICATIONS 8
2. MODULE SPECIFICATIONS 9
CHAPTER 2 DESIGN GUIDELINES 13

1. COMPOSITION OF MBR RELATED EQUIPMENT 13
1.1. Roles of Main Components and Tanks in an MBR System 13
2. RAW WATER REQUIREMENTS 15
2.1. Grease, oil, etc. 15
2.2. Antifoaming Agent 15
2.3. Others 15
3. PRETREATMENT 16
3.1. Target Substance and Treatment Procedures 16
4. ACTIVATED SLUDGE REQUIREMENTS 17

4.1. MLSS Concentration 17
4.2. Sludge Viscosity 17
4.3. Others 17
5. FILTRATION OPERATION PROCEDURES 19

5.1. Configuring Flux Settings 19
5.2. Configuring a Suction Pump 19
5.3. Configuring Intermittent Suction Settings 19
5.4. Notes on Equipment Design 20
6. AERATION PROCEDURES 21
6.1. Configuring aeration 21
6.2. Procedures for Dealing with Clogged Diffusers 21
7. CHEMICAL CLEANING PROCEDURES 23

7.1. Outline 23
7.2. Cleaning Modes 23
7.3. Acid Cleaning 24
7.4. Cleaning Equipment 25
7.4.1. Maintenance Cleaning and Recovery Cleaning 25
7.4.2. Device and Equipment Design 25
7.4.3. Cleaning Process Program 26
7.5. Other Caveats 27
7.5.1. Handling of Chemicals 27
7.5.2. Countermeasures against a Raw Water Inflow during Chemical Cleaning 27
7.5.3. Residual Free Chlorine and Acid in Membrane Treated Water
after Maintenance and Recovery Cleaning 27
7.5.4. Releasing Air from Pipes for Maintenance and Recovery Cleaning 28
7.6. Caveats for Chemical Soak Cleaning 28
8. MEMBRANE TANK LAYOUT AND THE MINIMUM WATER DEPTH 30

8.1. Relation between the Type of MBR System and its Plane Layout 30
8.2. Plane Layout 30
8.3. Minimum Water Depth 31
CHAPTER 3 INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING 32

1. TRANSPORT AND INSTALLATION 32
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1.1. Packing and Transport 32
1.2. Storage 33
1.3. Preparing for Installation (Cleaning) 33
1.4. Confirmation Items before Installation 34
1.5. Installation 34
1.6. Horizontality of Modules 35
1.7. Connecting Pipes to Modules 35
2. WATER AND SLUDGE COMMISSIONING AFTER INSTALLATION 36
2.1. Water Commissioning 36
2.2. Sludge Commissioning 36
3. ELEMENT REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES 37
3.1. Personal Protective Equipment 37
3.2. Necessary Tools 37
3.3. Procedures for Replacing Elements 37
3.4. Notes 38
4. PROCEDURES FOR LIFTING UP A MODULE 42
5. PROCEDURE FOR CONNECTING THE MEMBRANE
AND DIFFUSER PARTS OF A MODULE 43
5.1. Connecting Procedure 43
5.2. Notes 43
CHAPTER 4 OPERATION MANAGEMENT 44

1. MBR OPERATION MANAGEMENT 44
1.1. Outline of the MBR Method 44
1.2. Operation Management Procedure 47
1.3. Cause of Troubles and Responses: Examples 49
1.4. Operation Management Record 51
2. STARTING UP AN MBR SYSTEM 53
2.1. Seeding Input 53
2.2. Starting Operation 53
2.3. Transition to Steady Operation 53
2.4. Start-up Troubles and Responses to Them 53
3. MEMBRANE REPAIR 54
3.1. Preparation 54
3.2. Repair procedure 54
3.3. Notes 55
4. PROCEDURE FOR STORING THE PRODUCT 56
5. DIFFUSER CLEANING 57
5.1. Personal Protective Equipment 57
5.2. Necessary Tools 57
5.3. Procedure 57
CHAPTER 5 APPENDIX 58
1. LIST OF CONSUMABLES 58
2. CHEMICAL RESISTANCE OF THE PRODUCT 58
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Chapter 1 Specifications
1. Element Specifications
Product specifications for membrane elements are given below.
Specifications indicated in this manual may be subject to change without notice.
Table 1-1 Element Specifications

Item Unit Specifications
Element Model Number - SADF2590 SADF1590 SADF0690
Nominal membrane surface area m2 25 15 6
Direction of hollow fiber membrane - Vertical
Hollow fiber membrane - Polyvinyldene fluoride (PVDF)
Material
Potting resin - Polyurethane resin

Reinforcing resin - Polyurethane resin
Element permeate header - ABS Resin
Support pipe - SUS304
Nominal pore size μm 0.4
Outer diameter of hollow fiber
mm 2.8
membrane
Element dimensions (D×W×H) mm 30×1,250×2,000 30×1,250×1,300 30×620×1,015
Dry weight kg Approximately 15 Approximately 11 Approximately 5
φ20.5×1 location
φ24×2 locations (Upper element
Connection mm
(Upper element permeate header/lateral) permeate
header/center/upward)
Filtration mode - Submerged suction filtration (out-in filtration)
Normal trans membrane
- Initial trans membrane pressure: +15kPa or below
Operating conditions
pressure
Normal temperature °C 5 to 40
pH range of raw water - 6 to 9
Oil content range of raw water - 50mg/L or below
pH range for cleaning - 1 to 11
Recommended range of application: 5,000 to 12,000
MLSS range mg/L
(min: 3,000,max: 15,000)
3
Design filtration flow* m /(day·element) 5 to 20 3 to 12 1.2 to 4.8
Other Silicon antifoaming agent may not be used.
*: Design filtration flow is calculated by assuming flux = 0.2 to 0.8 m3/(m2·d) and depends on conditions of raw water, operating
temperature, etc.
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2. Module Specifications
Product specifications for modules are given below.
Specifications indicated in this manual may be subject to change without notice.
Please select a hoist and other equipment for lifting a module in light of the weight of a module as well as
chains and connecting pipes. If the product has been operated at the trans membrane pressure significantly
beyond its range specified in this manual, it is possible that an extreme amount of clogging has occurred, which
may cause the product to exceed its wet weight.
Table 1-2 Module Specifications List (Elements used: SADF2590)

SAA12590 SAA25090 SAA37590 SAA50090
Module model number -
ASDL02 ASP04 ASP06 ASP07
Model number - SADF2590
Number of elements pcs 5 10 15 20
Element
Dimensions (D×W×H) mm 30×1,250×2,000
Nominal membrane surface area m2 25
Depth mm 1,489 1,588 1,610 1,610
Dimensions Width mm 738 1,106 1,330 1,555
Height mm 3,118 3,124 3,124 3,124
Dry weight kg 375 548 701 849
Weight
Wet weight kg 455 693 941 1,169
Membrane surface area m2 125 250 375 500
Module Number of permeate adapters
pair 10 20 30 40
required
Connection to treated water
- 40A union 50A flange 50A flange 65A flange
(JIS10K)
Guide pipe specifications - 50A 50A 65A 50A
Projected area of the element 2
m 0.32 0.60 0.88 1.17
part
Model
Diffuser Diffuser - SDL1000 SF-10 SF-15 SF-20
number
part
Connection (JIS10K) - 50A flange 50A flange 80A flange 80A flange
Volume (linear velocity: 100m/h) Nm3/min 0.53 1.0 1.5 2.0
Diffuser Diffuser pressure loss kPa 1.5 0.7 0.7 0.7
air Volume (linear velocity: 150m/h) Nm3/min 0.8 1.5 2.2 2.9
Diffuser pressure loss kPa 1.7 1.1 1.1 1.1
Minimum water depth m 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4
2.2m or greater (The wall-to-center distance for a module adjacent to
Standard center-to-center depth wise
a wall must be 1.1m or greater.)
distance for modules
widthwise Secure a distance that does not prevent tying in or pulling up pipes.
Volume of water for cleaning round-pipe-
L/(min·module) - 36 54 63
type diffusers
- Initial trans membrane pressure: 15kPa or less
pressure
Operating Oil content range of raw
conditions - 50mg/L or less
water
MLSS range mg/L Recommended range: 5,000 to 12,000 (min: 3,000,max: 15,000)
Design filtration flow* m3/(day·module) 25 to 100 50 to 200 75 to 300 100 to 400
Other - Silicon antifoaming agent may not be used.
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SAA75090 SAA100090 SAA150090
Module model number -
ASP11 ASP15 ASP22
Model number - SADF2590 Standard accessories
Number of elements pcs 30 40 60 1. Permeate adapters
Element Dimensions (D×W×H) mm 30×1,250×2,000 2. 2 x masking covers
Nominal membrane surface
m2 25 Not included:
area
Depth mm 1,610 1,610 1,610 1. Guide rail
2. Chains and shackles
Dimensions Width mm 2,065 2,515 3,680
3. Chain blocks and
Height mm 3,176 3,176 3,176 cranes
Dry weight kg 1,219 1,475 2,243 4. Slings and lifting
Weight
Wet weight kg 1,699 2,115 3,203 beams
Membrane surface area m2 750 1,000 1,500 5. Filtered water hose
Module Number of permeate and
pair 60 80 120 pipes, air hose and
adapters required
Connection to treated pipes
- 80A flange 80A flange 80A flange 6. Protective sheets and
water (JIS10K)
covers
Guide pipe specifications - 80A 80A 100A
Projected area of the 2
m 1.74 2.30 3.53
element part
Model
Diffuser - SF-30 SF-40 SF-60
Diffuser part number
Connection (JIS10K) - 100A flange 100A flange 100A flange
Volume (linear velocity:
Nm3/min 2.9 3.8 5.9
100m/h)
Diffuser pressure loss kPa 0.7 0.7 0.7
Diffuser air
Volume (linear velocity: 3
Nm /min 4.4 5.8 8.8
150m/h)
Minimum water depth m 3.6 3.6 3.6
2.2m or greater (The wall-to-center distance for a
depth wise module adjacent to a wall must be 1.1m or
Standard center-to-center
greater.)
Secure a distance that does not prevent tying in or
widthwise
pulling up pipes.
L/(min·module) 99 135 198
type diffusers
pressure
ph range of raw water - 5 to 9
Operating Oil content range of raw
- 50mg/L or less
conditions water
Recommended range: 5,000 to 12,000
MLSS range mg/L
(min: 3,000,max: 15,000)
3
Design filtration flow* m /(day·module) 150 to 600 200 to 800 300 to 1,200
temperature, etc.
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Module model number - SAB15090ASP04 SAB30090ASP07
Number of elements pcs 10 20
Element Dimensions (D×W×H) mm 30×1,250×2,000
m2 15
area
Depth mm 1,588 1,610
Dimensions Width mm 1,106 1,555
Height mm 2,411 2,424
Dry weight kg 438 701
Weight
Wet weight kg 544 941
Membrane surface area m2 150 300
Module Number of permeate adapters
pair 20 40
required
- 32A union 65A flange
(JIS10K)
Guide pipe specifications - 50A 50A
Projected area of the element
m2 0.60 1.17
part
Model
Diffuser - SF-10 SF-20
Connection (JIS10K) - 50A flange 80A flange
Nm /min 1.0 2.0
100m/h)
Diffuser pressure loss kPa 0.70 0.70
Diffuser air
Nm /min 1.5 2.9
150m/h)
Diffuser pressure loss kPa 1.1 1.1
Minimum water depth m 2.7 2.7
2.2m or greater (The wall-to-center distance for a module adjacent to a wall
must be 1.1m or greater.)
L/(min·module) 36 63
type diffusers
pressure
Operating pH range of raw water - 5 to 9
conditions Oil content range of raw water - 50mg/L or less
Design filtration flow* m3/(day·module) 30 to 120 60 to 240
*: Design filtration flow is calculated by assuming flux = 0.2 to 0.8 m3/(m2·d) and depends on conditions of raw water, operating temperature,
etc.
Standard accessories Not included:

1. Permeate adapters 1. Guide rail
2. 2 x masking covers 2. Chains and shackles
3. Chain blocks and cranes
4. Slings and lifting beams
5. Filtered water hose and pipes, air hose and pipes
6. Protective sheets and covers
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Module model number - SAJ1890BSD01 SAJ4890BSD03 SAJ6090BSD04
Number of elements pcs 3 8 10
Element Dimensions (D×W×H) mm 30×620×1015(Excluding protruding part)
m2 6
area
Depth mm 736 738 746
Dimensions Width mm 438 658 746
Height mm 1881 1885 1885
Dry weight kg 69 107 127
Weight
Wet weight kg 82 143 172
Module Membrane surface area m2 18 48 60
- 20A screw 25A screw 32A screw
(JIS10K)
Guide pipe specifications - 50A 50A 50A
Projected area of the element
m2 0.10 0.24 0.29
part
Model
Diffuser - SDL500J
Connection (JIS10K) - 25A screw 32A screw 40A screw
Nm /min 0.17 0.4 0.49
100m/h)
Diffuser air
Volume (linear velocity:
Nm3/min 0.25 0.6 0.73
150m/h)
Minimum water depth m 1.9
1 m or greater (The wall-to-center distance for a module adjacent to a wall
must be 0.5 m or greater.)
L/(min·module) -
type diffusers
pressure
Operating
Oil content range of raw
conditions - 50mg/L or less
water
Design filtration flow* m3/(day·module) 3.6 to 14.4 9.6 to 38.4 12 to 48
temperature, etc.
Standard accessories Not included:

1. Permeate hose (PVC) 1. Guide rail
(Inner diameter: 19 mm Length: 500 mm) 2. Chains and shackles
3. Chain blocks and cranes
4. Slings and lifting beams
5. Filtered water hose and pipes, air hose and pipes
6. Protective sheets and covers
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Chapter 2 Design Guidelines
The products are submerged membrane modules used for MBR wastewater treatment.
The products may be used for solids-liquid separation by installing it in a membrane tank.
Make necessary adjustment to meet the following design requirements in using this product. A failure to
meet these conditions may prevent the product from performing according to specifications and may
result in its degradation, damage, etc.
1. Composition of MBR Related Equipment

MBR is composed of, besides a module as its principal component, chemical cleaning equipments, filtration
pumps, blowers, etc.
The diagram of MBR is shown in Figure 2-1.
Diffuser washing pump
MV
P
MV
BL 10. Dilution 6. Dilution
BL
water pump water tank
FI
11. Reactor tank blower 12. Membrane scour blower
FI
Static Mixer
FI FI P
MV
PIA 9. Chemical pump 5. Chemical tank
MV FI
P
7. Suction pump
Membrane module
Discharged
P
P P
Raw water pump 8. Sludge circulation Excess sludge extraction pump

pump
1. Flow equalization tank 2. Reactor tank 3. Membrane tank 4. Treated water tank
Figure 2-1 Diagram of MBR System (Example)
1.1. Roles of Main Components and Tanks in MBR System

1 Flow equalization tank
MBR system is basically operated at a constant flux. Flow equalization tank is thus installed to absorb
fluctuations in the flow rate. The size of flow equalization tank is to be determined on the basis of the
magnitudes of the raw water flow rate and the flow rate fluctuations and the treatment capacity of a
membrane separation device etc.
2 Reactor tank
There are two types of MBR systems: integrated MBR system and separate MBR system. (See Chapter4.1.1) If
the biological process does not complete in a membrane tank, a reactor tank is required in addition. A
circulation pump is then required to control sludge concentration in reactor and membrane tanks. If a process
such as the recycled nitrification process is used, multiple reactor tanks are needed.
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3 Membrane tank
A tank in which a module is submerged is called a membrane tank.
With the integrated MBR system, a membrane tank also serves as an aerobic biological process tank.
Since a membrane tank has the highest sludge concentration among all tanks, it is effective to extract excess
sludge from this tank.
4 Treated water tank

This is a tank to store treated water. It sometimes serves as a dilution water tank. Water in this tank is
discharged after disinfecting it by adding sodium hypochlorite to it as required.
5 Chemical tank
This is a tank for storing the undiluted solution of NaOCl for cleaning a module. It is recommended to install the
tank in a location unexposed to direct sunlight as high temperature accelerates the decomposition of NaOCl,
resulting in oxygen generation.
6 Dilution water tank

This is a tank to store water for diluting the undiluted solution of NaOCl. Water that can be stored in this tank
includes city water or treated water.
7 Suction pump
This is a pump for sucking treated water from a module. A self-suction pump is normally used for this purpose.
It is possible to use a pump of other type by installing an equipment which removes air from pipes by a vacuum
pump or any other means when the suction pump starts. A suction pump is operated at a constant flow by
installing a constant flow valve on its discharge side or controlling it by an inverter.
8 Sludge circulation pump

A sludge circulation pump is required to adjust sludge concentrations of reactor and membrane tanks. In the
recycled nitrification process, the pump also plays the role of circulating nitrified water. Circulation volume is
determined primarily by the balance between sludge concentrations of reactor and membrane tanks and the
targeted nitrogen removal rate. It is generally about 1 to 3 times as much as raw water volume.
9 Chemical pump
This is a pump to send NaOCl from a tank. A metering pump is generally used for this purpose.
10 Dilution water pump

This is a pump to send water for diluting NaOCl, from a dilution water tank. Dilution water must be sent at a
constant flow by using a metering pump or by installing a constant flow valve.
11 Reactor blower
This is a blower for supplying air for biological process to a reactor tank. Its model should be chosen on the
basis of water depth, the air volume required for biological process, etc.
12 Membrane scour blower

This is a blower for supplying air for cleaning a module. Its model should be chosen on the basis of water depth,
the air volume required for cleaning a module (See Table 2-1), etc. If the same blower is used for both biological
process and membrane scour aeration, control the volume of membrane scouring air at the constant, specified
value.
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2. Raw Water Requirements
2.1. Grease and oil
Keep normal hexane extracts from raw water at 50 mg/L or less.
1 In general, a microfiltration membrane surface may be clogged if the membrane is smeared with grease
and oil such as animal and vegetable grease and oil and mineral oils. It is thus not desirable to put raw
water with large oil and grease contents directly into an activated sludge tank. If normal hexane extracts
from raw water exceed 50mg/L, pretreat raw water by oil-water-separation or flotation treatment to keep
the extracts at 50 mg/L or less.
2 With grease and oil, such as animal and vegetable grease and oil, which can be decomposed by activated
sludge, it is possible to prevent membrane surface from being clogged to a certain extent by maintaining
high MLSS concentration. If, however, normal hexane extracts exceed 50 mg/L, membrane may still be
smeared with grease and oil and clogged. Pretreatment is therefore recommended.
3 Since mineral oils are less susceptible to biodegradation, it is concerned that they may give a worse impact
on membrane. Pay a particular attention if mineral oils are mixed into raw water.
4 If a large amount of surfactant is mixed into raw water, it may result in foaming in an aeration tank and
cause problems such as sludge overflow.
2.2. Antifoaming Agent

Silicon antifoaming agent may not be used.
If an antifoaming agent is to be used, please use a higher alcohol, ether, or ester antifoaming agent.
1 If an antifoaming agent is to be put into aeration tank due to foaming of sludge, please use a higher
alcohol, ether, or ester antifoaming agent.
2 If a silicon antifoaming agent is used, the antifoaming agent is absorbed on the membrane surface to
precipitate a rise in trans membrane pressure. Since it is difficult to clean the membrane surface of
adsorbed silicon antifoaming agent, it may then be required to replace the membrane.
3 If foaming occurs in sludge, use physical antifoaming means, such as spraying water on the foam surface,
also in combination with a minimum amount of an antifoaming agent.
2.3. Others
1 Treat biological process to raw water before filtering the products. Filtering raw water without biological
process may result in the adsorption of untreated organic matter dissolved in raw water on the membrane
surface to precipitate a rise in trans membrane pressure.
2 Do not put coagulant excessively into a dehydrator since uncoagulated coagulant from dehydrator effluent
may adsorb on the membrane surface to cause membrane clogging. Also design the system so that
dehydrator effluent does not directly flow into a membrane tank.
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3. Pretreatment
Sometimes, pretreatment is required to eliminate substances which may damage the MBR system's functions
and facilities, for the purpose of preventing an inflow of raw water containing such substances. Some
procedures for such pretreatment are illustrated in this section.
3.1. Target Substances and Treatment Procedures

1 Screenings
Screenings are impurities of impurities such as fibers, hairs, and plastic debris in raw water. Remove screenings
by screens or any other appropriate means, otherwise they may cause clogging by being intertwined with
hollow fiber membrane. Screens (drum screens, wedge wire screens, etc.) to be installed must have a slot
opening of 0.5 to 1mm.
2 pH(acidity or alkalinity)
If raw water is acid or alkaline, add neutralizer to raw water to adjust its pH to neutral (about 6 to 8). If raw
water is so strongly acid or alkaline as to make it difficult to neutralize it by one-step treatment, two-step
treatment may be required. Sulfuric acid or caustic soda is generally used as a neutralizer. Interlock a pH meter
and a chemical feeding pump to control the amount of neutralizer added.
3 Grease and oil

If a membrane is smeared with grease and oil, they widely cover the membrane surface and clogs its
micropores, hindering the stable operation of the system. Grease and oil can be quantitatively analyzed as
hexane extracts. They can further be separated into animal and vegetable grease and oil and mineral oils, and
the amount of each of these can then be determined. Treatment methods for grease and oil include natural
flotation and dissolved air flotation(DAF) methods. If grease and oil content exceed 50 mg/L, please reduce it to
50 mg/L or less by the said or other treatment methods.
Acid Alkaline Coagulant
Wastewater pH
P
Froth processing
Froth storage tank

Flow equalization tank pH adjusting tank Coagulation tank Flotation tank
Pressurized water Dissolved air flotation treated water
Figure 2-2 An Example Procedures for Wastewater Including Oils (Dissolved Air Flotation Method)
4 Water temperature
If raw water temperature or reactor tank temperature becomes rises to 40 °C or above, the biological process
performance declines.
Install a raw water cooling equipment or reactor liquid cooling equipment if water temperature may exceed
40 °C.
In particular, nitrification reaction by nitrification bacteria is susceptible to water temperature change. Its
reaction rate decreases under low temperature and nitrification bacteria tend to die off under high
temperature, so be careful.
5 Others
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If a substance that inhibits biological process is included in raw water, it must be removed. Examples of such a
substance include cyanide compounds and heavy metals such as hexavalent chromium. Examine in advance if
there is any substance.
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4. Activated Sludge Requirements
4.1. MLSS Concentration
Recommended range: 5,000 to 12,000 mg/L(min: 3,000 mg/L, max: 15,000 mg/L)
1 As MBR system separates liquid and solids by membrane, it can treat wastewater while maintaining a high
MLSS concentration unlike ordinary precipitation methods. Keep a MLSS concentration within the range of
5,000 to 12,000 mg/L in operating.
2 As the MLSS concentration rises, its viscosity also rises, reducing the membrane cleaning performance by
aeration. In particular, viscosity tends to rise sharply if the MLSS concentration exceeds 12,000 mg/L. So,
keep the MLSS concentration within the recommended range. Viscosity, however, differs by the properties
of raw water and sludge even with the same MLSS concentration, it is recommended to maintain and
control the MLSS concentration along with sludge viscosity covered in the next section (4.2 in this chapter).
3 The lower limit of MLSS concentration is 3,000 mg/L. If it goes below this limit, the BOD-MLSS load
increases more than a typical MBR design value to cause the insufficient decomposition of organic matter,
which may result in a sharp rise in trans membrane pressure.
4 If the MLSS concentration is lower than 3,000 mg/L, for instance, when the system starts up, set the
membrane flux lower than normal and gradually increase the MLSS concentration.
Membrane flux at start-up (for reference)

= (Design membrane flux)×(Current MLSS concentration)/(Design MLSS concentration)
4.2. Sludge Viscosity

Recommended range: 30 mPa·s or less*
1 When treating industrial wastewater, sludge viscosity needs to be controlled besides MLSS concentration.
If sludge viscosity exceeds the upper limit of the recommended range of 30 mPa·s*, the membrane
cleaning performance declines, which can cause sludge to widely cover the membrane surface to clog its
micropores, hindering the stable operation. So, lower viscosity by reducing the sludge concentration or by
any other appropriate means.
* Based on the measurement using Viscotester VT-03F, made by Rion Co., Ltd. If any other device is used, please
consult its manufacturer in light of the above recommended range.
4.3. Others
1 It is important for the stable operation of the product that biological process by activated sludge goes on
well. For good biological process, it is said to be desirable that the temperature of water in an aeration tank
be in the range of 15 to 35 °C.
2 If activated sludge is in a bad condition* or if the MLSS concentration is below the lower limit (for instance,
at the time of sludge acclimation), the membrane surface may be smeared with untreated organic matter
as water is filtered to precipitate a rise in trans membrane pressure, hindering the stable operation of the
product. In such cases, set the membrane flux lower than normal in operating the product.
3 Confirm in advance that biological process by activated sludge is back to a good condition in order to
resume operating the product at the standard membrane flux after setting it lower than normal because of
the situation described in 2.
* This refers to the condition such that the supernatant of activated sludge is muddy when sludge volume is
measured in accordance with the Gesuishikenhoho by Japan Sewage Works Association or JIS B9944. (Although
18/60
SV30 is normally measured when measuring sludge volume, for MBR system, the mixed liquor in the aeration
tank is diluted fourfold with treated water in measuring SV30 due to its high MLSS concentration.)
19/60
5. Filtration Operation Procedures
5.1. Configuring Flux Settings
Set filtration mode to constant rate filtration.
3 2
Flux: 0.2 to 0.8m /(m ·d) (for reference)
1 As the appropriate value of flux differs by the type of raw water, water temperature, and facility
management policy, examine these well in advance.
2 Normally, the product is operated at a constant flux (constant rate filtration).
3 Trans membrane pressure rises as operation continues. Monitoring the fluctuations in trans membrane
pressure is an important point in operation management.
4 Flux shown here is a daily average. Actually, an instantaneous flux during filtration is larger than this value
because of intermittent suction described in 5.3 of this chapter.
5.2. Configuring a Suction Pump

Trans membrane pressure* is normally about -5 to -30 kPa in MBR system.
A self-suction pump is normally used. Determine the pump's specifications on the basis of the flow rate,
the pump location, pump head, pipe resistance, etc.
Constant rate filtration is conducted by installing a constant flow valve on the discharge side of the suction
pump or electrically controlling the flow rate.
Depending on how a suction pump and pipes are installed, air pockets can occur in pipes to hinder the
stable operation of the product. Some measures may be necessary particularly to large diameter pipes.
It is possible to prevent air pockets by locating a suction pump at the highest position in the water
treatment line.
* This refers to the difference between the pressure at the filtration time and the pressure at the relaxation time.
1 Choosing a self-suction pump as a suction pump makes it easy to maintain suction pressure. Air in pipes
can be easily discharged if operation is resumed after having been halt.
2 It is possible to choose a pump other than a self-suction pump by installing an equipment such as a
vacuum pump which releases air from pipes.
3 Set the alarming pressure and the abnormal stopping pressure for a suction pump. If the alarming
pressure is exceeded, perform chemical cleaning immediately. The alarming and abnormal stopping
pressures may be set at values considered to be appropriate.
5.3. Configuring Intermittent Suction Settings

Be sure to conduct intermittent suction at the following interval for stable treatment by MBR system.
Filtration time: within 7 minutes Relaxation time: 1 minute or longer
1 Consecutive suction without setting relaxation time may result in the deposition of sludge floc and fine
particles on the membrane surface and the clogging by sludge particles, making continued operation
difficult.
2 Filtration time needs to be within 7 minutes, and relaxation time needs to be 1 minute or longer. The
typical operation intervals are 7 minutes of filtration and 1 minute of relaxation.
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Membrane filtered water
Sludge particles
Membrane surface
is cleaned by the
flow of water and
Flow of bubbles impact caused by
bubbles.
Bubbles
Filtration time Relaxation time
Figure 2-3 Conceptual Diagram of Membrane Cleaning
5.4. Notes on Equipment Design

Incorporate the function to stop suction upon emergency into the system.
Design the filtered water line so that a siphon does not occur when filtration is stopped.
1 Incorporate the function to stop filtration automatically into the system when the blower for cleaning the
module stops for some reasons. Continued filtration in such a situation results in the fixation of sludge and
a rise in trans membrane pressure.
It is recommended to configure such a system that gives an alarm and stops filtration by detecting the air
flow, pressure, etc. of a blower since sometimes the cutting a blower belt may not be detected as blower
stoppage.
2 Due to a siphon or gravity filtration mechanism, filtration may take place while filtration is suspended
during intermittent suction operation. In such a case, there will be no point in setting relaxation time, and
the trans membrane pressure will start rising. Install an automatic stop valve in the filtered water line or a
siphon breaker behind a suction pump to stop the flow of filtered water completely during relaxation time.
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6. Aeration Procedures
6.1. Configuring Aeration Rate
The standard amount of module cleaning aeration (per projected area of module element part) is 100 to 150
3 2 3 2
Nm /(m *·h). Such a blower must be chosen whose performance is 150 Nm /(m ·h) or greater.
3 2
Use the product within the standard range of aeration amount since continued aeration at 200 Nm /(m ·h)
or greater may result in damage to an element.
Refer to Table 2-1 for the amount of aeration for each module.
1 The above amount of aeration is required for a module and calculated on the basis of projected area of
module element part (upflow part).
2 Although the design of the system should be based on the value of the aeration amount, adjust the amount
of aeration in operating the product upon confirming the transition in trans membrane pressure, the
dissolved oxygen concentration (DO value) in an aeration tank, the state of swirl flow, etc.
3 With integrated MBR system, the amount of aeration necessary for the entire process is determined by
calculating, comparing, and choosing the large of the amount of aeration required for cleaning a module
and the amount of aeration required for biological process.
4 In general, the amount of aeration required for biological process tends to be greater than the one required
for membrane cleaning in case of industrial wastewater treatment. In such a case, the amount of air
required for cleaning a module must be blown into from the bottom of a module, with the remaining
amount of air blown into at a location where swirl flow is not inhibited. Separate MBR system is
recommended for raw water with a particularly high BOD.
Refer to Chapter 4.1.1 for integrated MBR system and separate MBR system.
5 If the amount of aeration required for cleaning a module is greater, that amount of air must be blown into
from the bottom of the module.
3
Table 2-1 List of the Aeration Amounts for Cleaning a Module (unit: Nm /(min·module))
SAA25090 SAA50090
SAA12590 ASP04 SAA37590 ASP07 SAA75090 SAA100090 SAA150090
Module model number
ASDL02 SAB15090 ASP06 SAB30090 ASP11 ASP15 ASP22
ASP04 ASP07
Number of elements 5 10 15 20 30 40 60
Aeration volume: 100 Nm3/(m2·h) 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.9 3.8 5.9
Aeration volume: 150 Nm3/(m2·h) 1.5 1.5 2.2 2.9 4.4 5.8 8.8
SAJ1890 SAJ4890S SAJ6090S

Module model number
ASD01 AD03 AD04
Number of elements 3 8 10
3 2
Aeration volume: 100 Nm /(m ·h) 0.17 0.4 0.49
Aeration volume: 150 Nm3/(m2·h) 0.25 0.6 0.73
6.2. Procedures for Dealing with Clogged Diffusers

1 There are two standard types of diffusers embedded in a module: perforated SUS pipe diffusers and tubular
membrane diffusers.
Modules whose model number begins with SAA or SAB standardly come with perforated SUS pipe diffusers
and those whose model number begins with SAJ standardly come with tubular membrane diffusers.
(SAA12590ASDL02, however, comes with tubular membrane diffusers tubular.)
2 A perforated SUS pipe diffuser needs to be regularly cleaned as sludge penetrates into it if it is used for long
hours. The sludge blocks holes of diffusers when it dries. To clean the diffuser, inject treated water or tap
water into it with continued aeration. The diffuser should be cleaned once per 4 to 6 hours, and the dosage
is 1 L/min per perforation for 3 to 5 minutes.
Refer to Table 2-2 for the injection rate for each module.
In designing piping, please see to it that injected water does not flow into the blower side (See Figure 2-4).
Choose an injection pump which has a discharge pressure higher than that of a blower.
22/60
Table 2-2 List of the Volumes of Diffuser Cleaning Water (recommended value) (unit: L/(min·module))
SAA25090 SAA50090
ASP04 SAA37590 ASP07 SAA75090 SAA100090 SAA150090
Module model number
SAB15090 ASP06 SAB30090 ASP11 ASP15 ASP22
ASP04 ASP07
Number of elements 10 15 20 30 40 60
Volume of diffuser cleaning water 36 54 63 99 135 198
Suction pump
The injection point A is inappropriate
because water injected at the point
○
B( ) while a blower is suspended flows into
A (×) the blower side.
Water injected at the injection point B
while a blower is suspended does not
flow into
Figure 2-4 Injection Point for Diffuser Cleaning the blower side as it flows
Water
into the diffuser side.
Membrane module
BL Diffuser
Membrane scour blower Membrane tank
Figure 2-4 Injected water does not flow into the blower side
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7. Chemical Cleaning Procedures
the outline of procedures, system and consideration of chemical cleaning are shown below.
Handle chemicals in accordance with the MSDS for each of them.
7.1. Outline
Monitor the suction pressure of a module and prevent the pressure from exceeding the setting value (the initial
value of suction pressure +15 kPa as the absolute value). It is necessary to configure the system to give an alarm
if the suction pressure exceeds the setting value and to clean the module with chemical immediately to recover
the trans membrane pressure under such a circumstance.
There are three types of chemical cleaning: 1. maintenance cleaning, 2. recovery cleaning, and 3. chemical soak
cleaning.
Normally, the performance of systems is maintained by the combination of maintenance cleaning about once
per week and recovery cleaning once per 3 months (or when the suction pressure exceeds the setting value).
Both of them are performed in-line cleaning (CIP): a chemical solution is injected from the suction pump side
(hereinafter referred to as “permeate side”) with a module immersed in a membrane tank.
If sludge has fixated between membranes due to device troubles or other reasons, chemical soak cleaning is to
be performed with a module immersed directly in a chemical solution.
NaOCl is normally used as a chemical solution for cleaning in MBR system, in which clogging is primarily caused
by organic matter. As clogging by inorganic matter increases gradually if the system is used for a long period,
cleaning with acid should be performed at appropriate timing.
7.2. Cleaning Modes

1 Maintenance cleaning
Maintenance cleaning is intended to remove membrane surface fouling regularly to inhibit the thickening of the
cake layer and a rise in trans membrane pressure for stable operation of the product.
About once every week, inject NaOCl with the effective chlorine concentration of 300 to 1,000 mg/L in the
2
amount of 2 L/m per unit membrane area plus the volume in the piping at a constant rate from the permeate
side for 15 to 30 minutes. Suspend aeration while performing maintenance cleaning. Normally this operation is
to be done automatically.
2 Recovery cleaning
Recovery cleaning, which is performed every 3 months or when the suction pressure has exceeded the setting
value (i.e., when the trans membrane pressure rose), is intended to remove element fouling and recover the
trans membrane pressure close to its initial value.
After suspending aeration, inject NaOCl with the effective chlorine concentration of 3,000mg/L in the amount
2
of 2 L/m per unit membrane area plus the volume of the piping at a constant rate from the permeate side for
30 minutes. After injection is completed, keep the module as it is for 30 to 90 minutes.
If trans membrane pressure is still high after recovery cleaning by NaOCl, clogging is considered to have been
caused by inorganic matter. Perform in-line cleaning by acid (oxalic acid: 1 %, citric acid: 1 %, sulfuric acid or
hydrochloric acid: 0.1 to 0.5 N). (See Chapter 2.7.3)
3 Chemical soak cleaning (off line cleaning)

Chemical soak cleaning is intended to remove fouling and recover the trans membrane pressure close to its
initial value by immersing the entire module in a chemical solution when recovery cleaning has been
insufficient to recover trans membrane pressure or when sludge has fixated between membranes due to device
troubles or other reasons (clogging). Chemical soak cleaning has a higher cleaning effect than recovery cleaning.
24/60
In chemical soak cleaning, the entire module or elements are immersed in a solution of NaOCl with the effective
chlorine concentration of 3,000 mg/L or of acid (oxalic acid: 1 %, citric acid: 1 %, sulfuric acid or hydrochloric
acid: 0.1 to 0.5 N). Immersion time is 6 to 24 hours with NaOCl and about 2 hours with acid.
For chemical soak cleaning, either lift the module from a membrane tank and immerse it in a washing tank
(primarily with integrated MBR system) or leave the module in a membrane tank and exchange sludge in the
tank with chemical (primarily with separate MBR system).
If the module is lifted from a membrane tank and immersed in a washing tank, wash the module with water
before immersed it in the washing tank.
It is possible to extract elements from the module and immerse them in a washing tank in order to save
chemical. In this case, wash elements with water after extracting them from the module and then immerse
them in the washing tank.
7.3. Acid Cleaning

Although NaOCl cleaning is effective against organic contamination, it is not effective against inorganic
contamination. Perform acid cleaning since cleaning only with NaOCl will result in gradual deposition of
inorganic matter on the membrane surface to cause a rise in trans membrane pressure. It is recommended to
perform acid cleaning about once a year if the product is used for domestic wastewater treatment.
Either an in-line cleaning process or a chemical soak cleaning process is used in acid cleaning.
If an in-line cleaning process is used in acid cleaning, prepare a solution for acid cleaning in a dilution water tank
and activate a dilution water pump with a chemical pump used for NaOCl cleaning stopped. The standard
amount and time of injection is the same with recovery cleaning. After in-line cleaning, dilute chemical
remaining in the dilution water tank. Either feed the diluted chemical to a membrane module or transfer it to a
flow equalization tank.
With a small module, it is possible to inject chemical by preparing a chemical tank in addition and connecting it
to the filtration line, taking advantage of difference in water level between the membrane tank and the
chemical tank (See Figure 2-5). It is recommended to make the difference in water level 1 m or greater.
Types of chemical cleaning and requirements for each, as well as types of chemical for acid cleaning are
summarized in Tables 2-3 and 2-4.
Table 2-3 Types of Chemical Cleaning

Effective chlorine
Injection and immersion
Type of cleaning Cleaning frequency concentration Injection amount
time
(for NaOCl)
Maintenance Injection time: about 15 to

Once every week 300 to 500 mg/L 2L/m2+α*1
cleaning 30 minutes
Injection time: about 30
Once every 3 months or when the
Recovery 2 *1 minutes
trans membrane pressure reached 3,000 mg/L 2L/m +α
cleaning Settling time: about 90
the upper limit*2
minutes
When the trans membrane pressure
Chemical soak
does not recover by in-line cleaning The amount enough to For NaOCl:6 to 24 hours
cleaning 3,000 mg/L
or when a trouble such as clogging immerse a module For acid :about 2 hours
(off line cleaning)
occurs
*1: 2 L/m2 (membrane surface area) + α(connection pipe volume)
*2: Recommended value :Initial trans membrane pressure +15 kPa
Table 2-4 The Concentration of Chemical Used for Acid Cleaning (In-line Cleaning or Chemical Soak Cleaning)
Type of acid Concentration
Oxalic acid 1 to 2 wt%
Citric acid 1 to 2 wt%
hydrochloric acid 0.1 to 0.5 N (0.8 to 4.2 vol% (for concentrated hydrochloric acid 12 N))
Sulfuric acid 0.1 to 0.5 N (0.3 to 1.4 vol% (for concentrated sulfuric acid 36 N))
25/60
7.4. Cleaning Equipment
7.4.1. Maintenance Cleaning and Recovery Cleaning
For maintenance cleaning and recovery cleaning, a chemical tank, a chemical pump, a dilution water tank, and a
dilution water pump are required. The schematic diagram of a cleaning equipment example is shown in Figure
2-5. This diagram shows a procedure under which undiluted chemical solution and dilution water are mixed and
then injected. There is also a procedure under which chemical solution whose concentration has been adjusted
in advance is injected. In chemical soak cleaning, a washing tank is required in addition.
MV Diffuser washing pump

4
P
P
MV
3
BL BL 5. Dilution 2. Dilution
FI
Membrane scour blower
Reactor tank blower
FI
Static mixer
FI FI P
3. Washing tank MV
PIA 2 4. Chemical pump 1. Chemical tank
MV
1
FI
P
Suction pump
Membrane module
Discharged
P
P P
Figure 2-5 Schematic Diagram of Chemical Cleaning Equipment (Chemical cleaning equipment is
Raw water pump Sludge
by a dotted line)Excess sludge extraction pump
circulation
circumscribed
pump
Flow equalization tank Reactor tank Membrane tank Treated water tank
Figure 2-5 Schematic Diagram of Chemical Cleaning Equipment

7.4.2. Device and Equipment Design
1 Chemical tank (NaOCl storage tank)
This is a tank to store NaOCl. Its capacity should be tantamount to the amount of NaOCl used in 1 to 2 months
in consideration of maintenance cleaning and recovery cleaning. The tank must be made of PE, FRP, etc. since
NaOCl is corrosive. Install the storage tank indoors or in the shade to prevent degradation of NaOCl and ensure
ventilation to maintain working environment.
(Example of a calculation for the amount of NaOCl used in 2 months per one unit of SAA50090ASP07
(excluding the amount corresponding the capacity of a guide pipe))
Assume that the concentration of an undiluted solution of NaOCl is 12 % and that its specific gravity is 1.19
3
g/cm .
Maintenance cleaning
2 2 3
500 m ×2 L/m ×500 mg/L÷12 %÷1.19 g/cm ×1 time/week×8 weeks/2 months = 28 L
Recovery cleaning
2 2 3
500 m ×2 L/m ×3,000 mg/L÷12 %÷1.19 g/cm ×1time = 21 L
The total of the above is 49 L.

Take into account the loss equivalent to the guide pipe capacity in actually choosing a chemical tank.
26/60
2 Dilution water tank
This is a tank to store the dilution water for NaOCl. In general, tap water, membrane treated water, etc. are used
as dilution water.
Treated water which has a high residual ammonium concentration, however, is not suitable as dilution water
since NaOCl reacts with ammonium to become chloramine, reducing NaOCl activity.
The capacity of a dilution water tank must be greater than or equal to the amount required for a single cleaning
cycle. It is recommended to have water supplied automatically to a dilution water tank.
(Example of a calculation for the amount of NaOCl used per one unit of SAA50090ASP07)
2 2 3
500 m ×2 L/m = 1 m +guide pipe capacity
3 Washing tank
This is a tank in which a module is immersed in chemical soak cleaning. It will be fine so long as it has size and
water depth which accommodate modules cleaned at one time.
4 Chemical pump
A chemical pump may be shared in maintenance cleaning and recovery cleaning. If it is shared, use a variable
meter pump in light of the flow rate in them.
(Example of a calculation for the flow rate of a chemical pump per one unit of SAA50090ASP07 (excluding the
amount corresponding to the capacity of a guide pipe))
Assume that the concentration of an undiluted solution of NaOCl is 12 % and that its specific gravity is 1.19
3
g/cm .
Maintenance cleaning
2 2 3
500 m ×2 L/m ×300 mg/L÷12 %÷1.19 g/cm ÷30 min = 0.07 L/min
Recovery cleaning
2 2 3
500 m ×2 L/m ×3,000 mg/L÷12 %÷1.19 g/cm ÷30 min = 0.7 L/min
5 Dilution water pump

A dilution water pump is a pump used for diluting NaOCl fed by a chemical pump. It is assumed that the flow
rate is the same in both maintenance cleaning and recovery cleaning. Homogeneously mix the dilution water in
an in-line mixer (static mixer) after it flows into a NaOCl pipe.
(Example of a calculation for the flow rate of a dilution water pump per one unit of SAA50090ASP07
(excluding the amount corresponding to the capacity of a guide pipe))
2 2
500 m ×2 L/m ÷30 min = 33.3 L/min
7.4.3. Cleaning Process Program

As maintenance cleaning and recovery cleaning are basically performed automatically, it is recommended to
incorporate these processes in a program in advance.
On the basis of the schematic diagram of chemical cleaning equipment (Figure 2-5), an example of a time chart
for recovery cleaning is shown in Table 2-5 for your reference. A time chart for maintenance cleaning is the
same except that the process B-2 is omitted.
27/60
Table 2-5 Reference Example of a Time Chart for Chemical Cleaning Processes
Membrane Sludge Dilution
Process Timer setting Suction NaOCl MV2
Process Operation scour circulating water MV1 Remarks
number (minutes) pump pump MV3
blower pump pump
Filtration
A. Filtration
A-1
operation
7 ○ ○ ○ × × ○ × Repeated the
processes A-1 and A-
process Filtration
A-2
suspension
1 × ○ ○ × × × × 2 alternately.
NaOCl
B-1
injection
30 × × × ○ ○ × ○
B. Chemical
B-2 Settling 90 × × × × × × ×
cleaning Pushing
process
B-3
NaOCl out
any × ○ ○ × ○ × ○
Aeration
Go to the process A-
B-4 before 0 to 15 × ○ ○ × × × × 1 after completion.
refiltration
7.5. Other Caveats

7.5.1. Handling of Chemicals
Since chemicals such as NaOCl, oxalic acid, citric acid, sulfuric acid, and hydrochloric acid are used in chemical
cleaning, wear safety goggles and protective gloves and handle them appropriately with due consideration for
environment and safety by referring to MSDS and other relevant information.
7.5.2. Countermeasures against a Raw Water Inflow during Chemical Cleaning

A raw water inflow during chemical cleaning, particularly chemical soak cleaning, temporarily disables or
impedes processing. Implement appropriate measures to avoid raw water from overflowing in accordance with
the state of equipment. Example measures are shown below. Each of the following measures can be
implemented severally or in combination with others.
A) If there is a flow equalization tank, set the water level of the flow equalization tank to the
minimum before implementing these measures.
B) If multiple modules or lines of modules are operated, perform these in several batches.
C) It is also possible to adjust the flux through an operating module to control the total treatment
flow, provided the maximum design filtration flux is not exceeded.
D) If a raw water inflow is expected to increase due to rain and other reasons, finish cleaning before
it increases or postpone cleaning.
E) Restrict a raw water inflow if it is possible, as in a factory, plant, etc.
F) Perform cleaning when a raw water inflow is low (for instance, on Saturday or Sunday or at night).
7.5.3. Residual Free Chlorine and Acid in Membrane Treated Water after Maintenance and
Recovery Cleaning
Most of chemical solution used in maintenance and recovery cleaning is discharged into a membrane tank. As
residual chlorine is deactivated by sludge, it does not have much impact on treated water.
Residual acid may sometimes lower the pH in the tank, it does not have much impact on treated water either.
As chemical solution that remains in pipes and hollow fiber membranes, however, is discharged with treated
water when filtration starts, it may temporarily have a large impact on the property of treated water.
Although its concentration declines sharply as filtration progresses, it is possible to respond in the following
ways if the quality of treated water is problematic in light of the state of discharge destinations.
A) NaOCl
This example system supplies a certain mixture of undiluted NaOCl and dilution water into a module. After
cleaning is completed, by activating a dilution water pump while a chemical pump is not operating,
residual NaOCl in pipes is pushed out into a membrane tank to be deactivated. By starting filtration after
28/60
performing this operation, it is possible to reduce significantly the amount of residual NaOCl mixing into
treated water. The amount of water to be fed differs by the treatment amount and the state of piping and
needs to be calculated for each individual case.
B) Acid
Discharge acid in a dilution water tank used for injection to exchange it with water. Activate a dilution
water pump and push acid in pipes into a membrane tank via a module to exchange chemical solution in
pipes with water. The amount of water to be fed differs by the treatment amount and the state of piping
and needs to be calculated for each individual case.
7.5.4. Releasing Air from Pipes for Maintenance and Recovery Cleaning
1 If air remains in pipes for cleaning, air lock can occur during chemical cleaning to prevent chemical
solution from homogeneously distributed throughout hollow fiber membrane. Release air from the
cleaning line by running chemical and dilution water pumps at the same time with the suction pump
before carrying out chemical cleaning. Generally, with permanent piping, once air is released, for instance,
during commissioning, it is not necessary to release air from piping each time cleaning is done.
2 If, often with a small module, chemical solution is fed by using temporary tanks and hoses by means of a
pump or a difference in water level as shown in Figure 2-6, please release air from the hose connecting
valve B and valve C before connecting it to the membrane tank. If the hose is connected to the valve on
the module side after opening it, liquid in pipes will drain down to cause air to flow in. So please open the
valve on the module side (valve A) after connecting the hose to it.
Adjust flow rate by valve lift.
Flow rate is
adjusted by valves.
Difference in
Release air from the Valve C water level
hose between Valves B
and C.
Chemical tank
(Concentration adjusted) 1m or greater
recommended.
Valve B
Connection
MV
Valve A 1
Open the valve A after connecting a P

temporary hose.
Suction pump
Membrane module
Membrane tank
Figure 2-6 Schematic Diagram of Chemical Cleaning Equipment Using Temporary Tanks and Pipes
7.6. Caveats for Chemical Soak Cleaning

1 Be careful not to let sludge and the like contaminate the inside of the suction line during chemical soak
cleaning. Disassemble the connection between a suction hose and a suction pipe after cleaning it with
water and seal its opening with plastic bags, tape, etc.
29/60
2 After lifting a module, wash a module by shower and remove adhering sludge before immersing it in
chemical. Do not use a high pressure washer to clean elements as it may damage membrane.
3 Take steps to avoid wastewater from modules and elements cleaning from being discharged outside the
site of the equipment. It should normally be discarded into a raw water or reactor tank.
4 Activate a suction pump after activating a membrane scour blower in resuming operation.
5 Dispose of chemical solution used in chemical soak cleaning appropriately in accordance with laws and
regulations. Dispose of NaOCl wastewater after reducing it with sodium thiosulfate and acid wastewater
after neutralizing it with sodium hydroxide.
6 If NaOCl cleaning and acid cleaning are performed consecutively, wash elements, attached equipment, and
tanks with water adequately between these cleaning processes. Take sufficient care as mixing NaOCl and
acid has the risk of generating poisonous chlorine gas.
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8. Membrane Tank Layout and the Minimum Water Depth
8.1. Relation between the Type of MBR System and its Plane Layout
There are two types of MBR system: integrated MBR system and separate MBR system. (See Chapter 4.1.1)
Integrated MBR system requires a membrane tank with a capacity that enables ensuring hydraulic retention
time required for biological processing. Place modules as evenly as possible in a tank without letting sludge
settle. If the capacity of the tank is so large as to disable even distribution of modules, aeration for biological
processing is required in addition to module cleaning. In this case, place diffusers in such a manner as to make
liquid in the tank mixed evenly. Place the inlet for raw water as far as possible from modules to prevent
undecomposed raw water from being in direct contact with modules.
With separate MBR system, it is possible to design a membrane tank compactly by setting the interval between
modules to the minimum value described below. Making the interval too narrow hinders a swirl flow by
aeration from under modules to reduce cleaning performance. So please ensure the minimum interval between
modules designated by us which is indicated in the plane layout shown in Section 8.2 of this chapter.
8.2. Plane Layout

As regards the plane layout of module, place them as evenly as possible in a membrane tank and
ensure sufficient space on left and right side. A lack of sufficient clearance may impede stable
operation.
In placing modules in a membrane tank, it is required to ensure horizontal clearance as shown below, which is
intended to enable cleaning by a swirl flow by maintaining enough space for sludge moving upward through
modules by aeration to move downward.
Maintain the following center-to-center distance depth wise. (See Figure 2-7)
2.2 m or greater (the distance to the wall: 1.1 m or greater), with modules whose model
number starts with SAA or SAB
1.0 m or greater (the distance to the wall: 0.5 m or greater), with modules whose model
number starts with SAJ
Ensure such widthwise clearance that allows tying in pipes.
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Clearance that
1.1m or greater 2.2m or greater allows tying in pipes
a) Modules whose model number starts with SAA or SAB
Clearance that
0.5m or greater 1.0m or greater allows tying in pipes
b) Modules whose model number starts with SAJ
Figure 2-7 Plane Layout of Modules
8.3. Minimum Water Depth

Ensure the minimum water depth indicated in the table below to allow a swirl flow to be created
uniformly. A failure to secure the minimum water depth may hinder stable operation.
This is intended to ensure space above modules in installing modules in a membrane tank so that a swirl flow
will be evenly created.
See Table 2-6 for the minimum water depth for each module.
Table 2-6 List of the Minimum Water Depths

SAA12590 SAA25090 SAA37590 SAA50090 SAA75090 SAA100090 SAA150090
Module model number
ASDL02 ASP04 ASP06 ASP07 ASP11 ASP15 ASP22
Number of elements 5 10 15 20 30 40 60
Minimum water depth (m) 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.4 3.6 3.6 3.6
SAB15090 SAB30090 SAJ1890 SAJ4890 SAJ6090

Module model number
ASP04 ASP07 BSD01 BSD03 BSD04
Number of elements 10 20 3 8 10
Minimum water depth (m) 2.7 2.7 1.9 1.9 1.9
32/60
Chapter 3 Installation and
Commissioning
1. Transport and Installation
This section lists handling instructions concerning transport, storage, transfer, and installation of modules.
1.1. Packing and Transport

1 The temperature requirement for elements and modules is 0 to 40 °C. Use an air-conditioned trailer if this
requirement may not be met.
2 When elements alone are transported, our standard package contains 10 elements. Do not stack more
than 4 cartons.
3 Modules may not be stacked.
Figure 3-1 Elements Packaging
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..
Figure 3-2 Module (membrane part) Packaging Figure 3-3 Module (diffuser part) Packaging
1.2. Storage
1 Store Modules and elements on a level surface, and avoid direct sunlight, wind, and rain. Keep the
temperature within the range of 0 to 40°C. Be careful about freezing and abnormal heating.
1.3. Preparing for Installation (Cleaning)

1 Before installing modules, inspect the inside of pipes and removes foreign matters. For this purpose, keep
the inside of pipes, tanks, and pumps clean during installation work. Remove foreign and residual matters
resulting from installation work in cleaning after the work and in flushing pipes at the design flow rate.
Then inspect these device and equipment before starting operation.
Perform cleaning and inspection similarly for feed pumps, suction pumps, blowers, and pipes for chemical.
2 Remove any foreign matters larger than the slot of an inlet screen (0.5 to 1 mm) found along the filtration
line from an inlet screen to a membrane tank.
3 Cover cleaned tanks with a cover or plastic sheet so that foreign matters do not go into them.
4 Do not let any foreign matters which damage a membrane tank or whose size is 1mm or greater (see
below) at any time, including during installation work. If a foreign matter is mixed in, it can give invisible
damage to a membrane.
(Examples of foreign matters that can damage a membrane)

A) Water containing foreign matters larger than the screen slot
B) Foreign matters which are blown into or fall into a module during maintenance and repair of the
upper part of module (fallen leaves, plastic bags, etc.)
C) Residues from pipes and devices
D) Any other things such as:
tying bands, wire bands, bots and nuts, rulers, wires and wire fragments, drilling rubbish, tape
fragments, welding slug, grinding rubbish, small branches, leaves, fish, etc.
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1.4. Confirmation Items before Installation
Conduct adequate inspection and recording upon the first membrane installation work. Do not proceed to the
module installation process until it is judged ready to do so.
Confirm the following.
1 Cleaning of the membrane tank has been completed, and foreign matters have been removed.
2 All pipes and tanks including blower pipes have been flushed and cleaned.
3 Following works have been completed.
A) painting
B) covering
C) sheet metal working
D) pipe flushing
E) grinding
F) welding
G) sand blasting
H) drilling
I) power tool work that generates foreign matters
J) wiring
K) installing guide pipes (guide pipes are outside the range of our supply)
4 Check piping.
Be sure that the piping has been constructed correctly. (Note: Confirm this before connecting modules.)
A) Line checking: Confirm whether piping is in accordance with P&ID by comparing piping with P& ID.
B) Leakage test: never fail to conduct a leakage test for suction pipes.
The pipe leakage test is important since a leak from a suction pipe causes mixing of suspended solids
(deterioration in the turbidity of treated water) and bad suction. Perform the test at the pressure of
100 kPa or greater. Although it is preferable to perform the test for other pipes at the same time, it
can be performed after the blower test is completed when it is ready to start operation.
C) Pipe flushing.
Flush the inside of main pipes, including suction and discharge pipes for treated water and aeration
air pipes, with water or air. Flushing is considered completed when no mixing of rubbish is confirmed
by a temporary filter or other means.
5 Check wiring.
A) Confirm that wiring has been done correctly by checking wiring numbers on the terminal board or by
checking continuity.
B) Measure insulation of electric motors and other similar devices.
C) Measure insulation of a terminal board to confirm that there is no earth fault.
6 Check the rotational direction of rotating machine.
Confirm the rotational direction of each motor by itself. Confirm that each motor has an arrow for its
rotational direction. If a motor is difficult to be detached from a device (such as a pump), this may be done
at the time of water commissioning.
7 Check sequence.
Confirm sequence, alarm, and interlock by a simulated signal or any other similar means.
1.5. Installation
Typical installation procedures are described below.
1 Delivery and unloading.
Place module packages on a hard level floor not exposed to direct sunlight, humidity, rain, and excessive
temperature. Never let them frozen.
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2 Opening the package.
Open packages of both membrane and diffuser parts of modules. Be careful not to damage modules in
opening the packages.
3 Confirming the products.
Confirm that elements and permeate adapters have been correctly installed and that there are no loose
bolts, nuts, etc.
4 Assembling modules. (See Chapter 3.5)
Assemble modules by connecting the membrane part and the diffuser part of a module and attaching
accessories to the module.
5 Lifting and installing modules. (See Chapter 3.4)
Lift modules and install them by lifting down along the guide pipe of a tank.
1.6. Horizontality of Modules

Install modules at a location whose horizontality is 3 mm/1,000 mm or less. Placing modules on a surface which
has a greater slope may result in uneven aeration and inadequate membrane cleaning to cause membrane
clogging.
Pay particular attention to it since an existing tank modified may have a slope.
1.7. Connecting Pipes to Modules

Connect pipes (suction and diffuser pipes) to modules after every step given above has been completed.
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2. Water and Sludge Commissioning after Installation
2.1. Water Commissioning
1 Filling tanks with water: fill tanks with clear river water up to the design water level.
2 Checking the indication and alarm of the water gauge: record the actual water level and the indication on
the water gauge when filling tanks with water to adjust the water gauge and confirm its alarm.
3 Checking water leakage from tanks: mark the water level after filling tanks to the prescribed water level
and then confirm that there is no decline in the water level after one day. Pay attention to the dissolution
of concrete constituents as well.
Since it will be required to drain water from the tank to repair it if water leakage is found in it, it is
recommended to install membrane modules after performing this inspection.
4 Stand-alone commissioning of devices: confirm that each device functions as stated in its specifications
and record major data such as velocity and electric current.
5 Confirm the performance curves of fluidic devices such as pumps and blowers and record their flow rate,
pressure, rotational speed, electric current, etc.
6 With a large rotational device, its vibration, noise, etc. may also be measured.
7 Observe and record the conditions of a flow caused by aeration in tanks.
8 Adjust measuring instrument including flow meters, DO meters, etc.
9 Perform automatic filtration operation and confirm that there are no suspended solids or bubbles in
filtered water.
Remark: Although treated water becomes clouded immediately after the start of filtration since
hydrophilizing agent applied on membrane mixes into filtered water, it will normally become transparent
in about 10 minutes. Hydrophilizing agent also causes foaming in the membrane tank to some extent, but
it will disappear as water in the tank is exchanged.
10 Comprehensive water commissioning.
Feed water from the raw water tank or flow equalization tank to execute commissioning of the entire
system to confirm its operation.
3 2
Successively change flux from 0.1 to 1.0 m /(m d) and confirm and record trans membrane pressure by this
change.
2.2. Sludge Commissioning

1 Input sludge. (See Chapter 4.2)
2 Start filtration and confirm that there are no suspended solids or bubbles in filtered water.
If there is leakage of suspended solids or forming of bubbles, please perform inspections again as there are
possibilities such as membrane damage during installation work, leakage in pipes, etc.
If there are multiple lines, run each line severally and identify the problematic line.
3 2
3 Successively change flux from 0.1 m /(m d) to the design flux value and confirm and record trans
membrane pressure by this change.
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3. Element Replacement Procedures
As an example, the procedures for replacing an element are described here by taking SAA50090ASP07. A
module is delivered with elements installed. Refer to these procedures when replacing elements, performing
maintenance or installing elements.
3.1. Personal Protective Equipment

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment in accordance with work to be performed and circumstances.
Typical personal protective equipment is listed below.
A) helmet
B) safety shoes
C) protective gloves
D) safety belt
3.2. Necessary Tools

Following tools are required for replacing elements. Prepare them in advance since they are not bundled with
this product.
A) wrenches (M5, 8, 10, 16)
B) hexagonal wrench (M6)
C) Phillips head screwdriver
3.3. Procedures for Replacing Elements

This section explains procedures for replacing elements. It is assumed that modules have been lifted, separated
into membrane and diffuser parts, and placed on a level surface. Refer to the next section (Chapter 3.4 & 5) for
lifting modules and connecting their membrane and diffuser parts.
1 Removing the protective cover. (Figure 3-4, 3-5)
Remove the protective cover from both sides of a module by unscrewing bolts on its upper and lower
parts.
2 Removing elbow holders. (Figure 3-5 to 3-8)
Remove elbow holders on both sides of a module (two on each side).
3 Removing permeate adapters. (Figure 3-7, 3-8)
Remove permeate adapters.
4 Removing the front and back plates. (Figure 3-9, 3-10)
Remove the front and back plates from both sides of a module by unscrewing bolts on them.
5 Adjusting the position of element holders. (Figure 3-11, 3-12)
In order to make it easy to insert elements, loosen bolts on both sides of an element holder and lift it up
and tighten the bolts to fix it. (Since the element holder is only temporarily lifted up, the bolts only need
to be tightened to the extent that the element holder does not fall.)
6 Removing element holders 2. (Figure 3-9, 3-13)
Remove element holders 2 on both sides of a module.
7 Removing elements. (Figure 3-14)
Remove elements.
That completes the removal of elements. (Figure 3-15)

A module is assembled in the reverse order, which is described below step by step.
8 Inserting elements. (Figure 3-14)

Insert new elements with their permeate part (the perforated part) up. Since elements are asymmetrical
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between left and right, align elements with each other in inserting them to a module. (As the Lot No.
stamp is only on the one side of elements, use this as a guide in aligning elements.)
9 Installing element holders 2.
Install element holders 2 in the reverse procedure to removal. Hold their permeate parts lightly in
installing elements 2.
10 Adjusting element holders. (Figure 3-11, 3-12)
Loosen bolts on the sides of the module and tighten the bolts until element holders come in contact with
elements.
11 Installing the front and back plates.
Install the front and back plates.
12 Installing permeate adapters.
Insert permeate adapters on both sides of the module. Permeate adapters are asymmetrical between top
and down. The end with a flange is the top (permeate header side). Do not mistake the bottom for the
top. Be careful not to let O-ring fall out of the groove in inserting a permeate adapter (Figure 3-16). Since a
permeate adapter is composed of two parts and can be adjusted in terms of length and installing
orientation, please make appropriate adjustment depending on the distance between the element hole
and the inserting part of the element permeate header. Use silicon grease if it is hard to insert the adapter.
13 Installing an elbow holder. (Figure 3-5, 3-6)
Install an elbow holder. Hold the brown O-ring on the upper part of the permeate adapter from the
outside in installing it. Note that elbow holders come in a pair ― R and L.
14 Installing the protective cover. (Figure 3-17)
Install the protective cover. Installing it will fix elbow holders will be fixed at the same time.
3.4. Notes
1 These procedures involve work at a high place. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment including
a helmet, a safety belt, and safety shoes.
2 An element may be damaged if it bumps a protruding object. Be careful not to let an element bump on
obstacles or belongings (watch, tools, etc.) when removing the element.
3 The dry weight of an element is about 15 kg. Carry an element by two or more persons.
4 In installing a permeate adapter, use silicon grease if it is hard to insert. Do not use solvent based grease as
it degrades ABS resin.
5 If a permeate adapter which has been used in sludge is to be installed again, please wash it with water well
to remove sludge adequately. Replace an O-ring by a new one if it has deteriorated.
6 An element is made of resin. Do not use fire or perform welding operation near the working area.
7 Use appropriate fitting tools for screwing or unscrewing bolts and nuts.
8 Bolts and nuts are made of SUS304 stainless steel. If bolts and nuts are to be reused, please wash them
well with water to remove sludge and other foreign matters and apply anti-sticking coating to prevent
galling and sticking. Use an electric tool carefully, for instance, by tightening a bolt after confirming fit.
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Masking cover
Permeate
adapter Permeate adapter
Front and Permeate adapter
holder (L) holder (R)
back plate
Figure 3-4 Module (membrane part) Assembled Figure 3-5 After the Protective Cover Has Been
Removed (Installing a permeate adapter holder)
Figure 3-6 Elbow Holder (L(Left), R(Right))
Figure 3-7 After the Elbow Holder Has Been Removed Figure 3-8 Installing and Removing a Permeate
Adapter
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Element holder 2
Figure 3-9 After the Front and Back Plate Has Been Removed Figure 3-10 A Front and Back Plate
Removed
Element holder adjusting bolts
Element holder
Figure 3-11 Adjusting the Position of an Element Holder

(Loosen bolts on sides and adjust the position by choosing an appropriate slot. Photo on the left shows the
upper position.)
About 5 mm void space
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Figure 3-12 Element Holder in the Upper (photo below) and Lower (photo above) Position
Figure 3-13 After an Element Holder 2 Has Been Removed Figure 3-14 Installing and Removing
Elements
A permeate adapter O-ring out

of the groove
Figure 3-15 Cage After Elements Have Been Removed Figure 3-16 A Permeate Adapter O-ring Out of
the Groove
42/60
Elbow holder
Permeate adapter
Protective cover
Figure 3-17 After the Protective Cover Has Been Installed
4. Procedures for Lifting up a Module

In lifting up a module, for instance, in delivering it for installation, installing it, or removing it for maintenance,
appropriate construction machinery, tools, and work plan are required to ensure work safety and to prevent
module damage.
Select a crane or chain block, a balance, wire rope, SUS chain, hooks, shackles, etc. by referring to values in the
table below, in light of the working environment at a treatment plant, the state of sludge adhesion, etc.
Select materials for chains, shackles, and other components which are presupposed to be constantly immersed
in sludge by taking into account corrosion and other effects.
Balance
Hook A Hook B
Figure 3-18 Schematic Diagram of Module Lifting
Table 3-1 Estimated Length of a Balance and Lifting Height

Module model number SAA50090ASP07 SAA100090ASP15 SAA150090ASP22
Membrane surface area m2 500 1,000 1,500
Wet weight kg 1,500 2,500 3,500
L mm 1,000 2,000 2,900
θ(maximum value) degree 60 40 30
h (minimum value) mm 520 825 1,120
43/60
5. Procedure for Connecting the Membrane and Diffuser Parts of a
Module
Since a module is delivered with its membrane and diffuser parts separated, it is necessary to assemble it
before using it. Those parts have to be separated when replacing elements.
5.1. Connecting Procedure

1 Lift the membrane part up and move it over the diffuser part by a chain block or crane.
2 Align the lot number marking on the membrane part with the one on the diffuser part. (Figure 3-19, 3-20)
3 Lift the membrane part down on the diffuser part. (Lift it down carefully so that no impact is applied on
the membrane part.)
4 Align tapped holes of both parts and fix them with bolts (M10-25L, at 16 locations).
Insert bolts from under. (Figure 3-20)
5.2. Notes
1 Wear appropriate personal protective equipment including a helmet, a safety belt, safety shoes, and safety
gloves.
2 Use appropriate tools for tightening and loosening bolts and nuts and pay full attention to their handling.
3 Assemble a module on a stable surface in order to prevent it from overturning.
4 Take overturn-preventive measures by chain or any other means to prevent a module from overturning.
5 Be very careful not to put your fingers between the module and diffuser parts.
Lot number marking (right side opposite to an intake port)
Lot number marking on the

diffuser part
Lot number marking on the
membrane part
Module
part
Diffuser part
Insert a bolt from under.
Figure 3-19 Lot Number Marking on a Module Figure 3-20 Lot Number Markings on the Membrane and
Diffuser Parts of a Module
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Chapter 4 Operation Management
1. MBR Operation Management
1.1. Outline of the MBR Method
MBR system is a system that performs solids-liquid separation, which is done in a settling tank under the
conventional activated sludge process, in a membrane module. Consequently, a settling tank is unnecessary
with MBR system, which thus can maintain a high MLSS concentration and also separate suspended solids
100%. The schematic diagram of standard activated sludge process and MBR is shown in Figure 4-1.
The difference between the MBR process and the conventional activated sludge process and advantages of the
former are as follows.
A) MBR system is compact as the final settling tank is not required.
B) Its reactor tank is compact as the tank's MLSS concentration is high, ranging from about 5,000 to
12,000 mg/L.
C) The MBR process enables suctioning clear treated water from a module immersed in an aerobic tank,
and treated water can be used as raw water for RO membrane treatment.
D) The process uses inorganic coagulant addition for dephosphorization, which is relatively simple and
easy to control and allows easy maintenance, enabling a significant improvement in the phosphate
elimination rate.
Mainly, there are two types of MBR system: integrated MBR system which places a membrane module in a
reactor tank and separate MBR system which places a membrane module outside a reactor tank. The schematic
diagram for both is shown in Figure 4-2.
Raw Suction pump

P Treated
Raw water water
Treated water
B
Settling tank B
Aeration Blower Blower

Aeration tank
P
(Membrane tank)
Sludge return pump
Schematic Diagram of the Standard Flow Schematic Diagram of
for Standard Activated Sludge Process the Standard Flow for MBR
Figure 4-1 Schematic Diagram of Standard Activated Sludge Process and MBR
Suction pump Raw Suction pump
Raw water P Treated water P Treated water
B B B
Blower
Blower Blower
Aeration tank Aeration tank Membrane tank
P
(Membrane tank)
Sludge circulation pump
Schematic Diagram for Schematic Diagram for Separate MBR System
Integrated MBR System
Figure 4-2 Schematic Diagram of Integrated MBR System and Separate MBR System
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Wastewater can be roughly classified into domestic and industrial wastewater. This chapter describes operation
management procedures, caveats, and inspection items, etc. for MBR system treating domestic wastewater. As
the chapter only covers basic matters, please note that the operation of MBR system has to be managed in a
manner specific to each individual facility.
In addition, system configuration differs with the one treating only BOD and the one removing nitrogen and
phosphate, and maintenance items and the point of maintenance also differ in both cases.
Since the basic operation management is same in either type of system, this chapter explains the operation
management of MBR system by taking one using recycled nitrification process an example.
Design water quality for typical domestic wastewater is given in Table 4-1. The schematic diagram for an
example system is shown in Figure 4-3.
What is particularly important in operation management is as follows.
A) An appropriate amount of air is uniformly discharged from a membrane module's diffuser.
B) Trans membrane pressure is within the prescribed range.
(Time for chemical cleaning and membrane element replacement is determined on the basis of trans
membrane pressure.)
Table 4-1 Example of Design Water Quality(Domestic wastewater)
Raw water Treated water
pH (-) 5.8 to 8.6 5.8 to 8.6
BOD (mg/L) 200 5 or less
CODMn (mg/L) 100 10 or less
SS (mg/L) 160 5 or less
T-N (mg/L) 45 10 or less
T-P (mg/L) 5 0.5 or less
n-Hex (mg/L)
25 3 or less
(Hexane extracts)
Coliform group number (per mL) - 100 or less
(Treatment method: MBR system using recycled nitrification process)
14. Coagulant 13. Coagulant tank

pump (Made of Al or Fe)
MV
Diffuser washing pump
P
MV
FI
12. Membrane scour blower
FI
Static mixer
FI P
MV
PIA 9. Chemical pump 5. NaOCl tank
Primary sedimentation treated water
Screens
MV FI P
P
Circulation solution
7. Suction pump
Membrane module
Discharged
Figure 4-3 Schematic

P Diagram ofMan Example MBR System Using Recycled Nitrification Process
P P
Raw water pump Submerged mixer 8. Sludge circulation Excess sludge extraction pump
pump
1. Flow equalization tank 2. Anoxic tank 3. Aerobic tank (Membrane tank) 4. Disinfection tank
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1.2. Operation Management Procedure
This section describes an example management procedure for the septic tank of MBR system using recycled
nitrification process. Inspection items and maintenance work are as indicated in Table 4-2. Important inspection
items are screenings, DO, flux, trans membrane pressure, and the state of aeration. Maintenance inspection of
these items for prevention of troubles leads a reduction in running cost. Although inspection frequency differs
by treatment facilities, please perform inspection at least once a week and maintain an inspection record.
Items managed by using measurement device are shown in Table 4-2. Manage DO preferentially. As regards
MLSS management, adjust the amount of sludge extraction in view of the next inspection.
Inspection items in Tables 4-2 and 4-3 are illustrated in Figure 4-4.
Table 4-2 Example of Inspection Items and Maintenance contents

Equipment Inspection Item Normal State Maintenance and Inspection
Small amount of screenings deposition Cleaning and screenings
Coarse screen State of screenings deposition
No mixing of substance removal
Deposition state in a grit
Grit chamber Small amount of grit Cleaning and grit removal
chamber
Fine screen (15 to Small amount of screenings deposition Cleaning and screenings
State of screenings deposition
25mm) No mixing of substance removal
Operating state of the flow Pump inspection
Flow rate according to the design value is
equalization pump
secured
Water level trend Water level gauge inspection
A week or a monthly change is small
Flow equalization tank State of mixing/swirl flow Motor inspection
Smooth swirl and mixing without anaerobic
odor
State of sludge and scum Cleaning sludge and scum
Small amount of sludge and scum generation
generation removal
Operating state Smooth operation without abnormal noise or Immediate repair and
(noise, vibration, appearance, ) vibration replacement in response to
maloperation due to failure
Extra fine screen (0.5 to
State of screenings deposition Small amount of screenings deposition Cleaning, screenings and
1mm)
No mixing of substance substance removal
Cleaning and removal of
State of screen clogging Little clogging clogging substances
Mixing state Smooth mixing Motor inspection

State of bubble and scum Small amount of bubble and scum Cleaning and scum removal
Anoxic tank
generation
ORP measurement Within the proper range MLSS adjustment
Aeration state Smooth and even swirl Blower inspection
Aeration amount Proper flow rate Flow rate adjustment
State of bubble and scum Small amount of bubble and scum Cleaning and scum removal
generation
Operating state of the membrane Normal flow rate and operating cycle Flow rate adjustment
filtration pump and the Pump inspection
circulation pump
Operating state of each Proper measurement values obtained and the Inspection and calibration of
measurement device preset values maintained measurement devices
Aerobic tank
Confirmation of MLSS Within the specified range Performing and the
(membrane module)
concentration adjustment of the amount of
sludge extraction
Water level state Water level maintained meets the specified Water gauge level inspection
value
Confirmation of trans membrane No drastic changes and at or below the Membrane cleaning
pressure specified value
Confirmation of membrane Transparent without suspended solids Inspection of membrane and
filtered water pipes
Confirmation of DO Within the proper range Air flow rate adjustment
Confirmation of chlorine agent
Disinfection tank Sufficient amount of chlorine agent Chlorine agent replenishment
(if solid chlorine agent is used)
NaOCl tank State of residual amount At or above the specified value NaOCl replenishment
Dilution water tank Water level state At the specified water level Inspection of the feedwater line
Coagulant replenishment
At or above the specified value
Coagulant tank State of residual amount Flow adjustment of a coagulant
Coagulant consumed as specified
injection pump
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Table 4-3 Items Controlled by Using Measurement Devices and Responses to Deviation
Outside the Controlled
Control Range Response
Range
DO About 1 to 4 mg/L 1 mg/L or less Increase the air flow rate.
(Aerobic tank) Reduce the MLSS concentration (within the control range).
4 mg/L or greater* Reduce the air flow rate.
Increase the MLSS concentration (within the control range).
MLSS About 5,000 to 12,000 5,000 mg/L or less Decrease the amount of sludge extraction.
mg/L (Pay attention to a lack of DO due to an increase in MLSS
concentration.)
12,000 mg/L or greater Increase the amount of sludge extraction.
(Pay attention to an increase in DO due to a decrease in MLSS
concentration.)
ORP About-200 to 0 mV -200 mV or less (To prevent putrefaction.)
(Anoxic tank) Increase DO, decrease the MLSS concentration, and increase
circulation ratio in an aerobic tank.
0 mV or greater Decrease DO, increase the MLSS concentration, and decrease
circulation ratio in an aerobic tank.
*: DO in a membrane tank of separate MBR system tend to be 4mg/L or greater, in which case, determine the air flow rate with a priority on
ensuring the air flow rate for membrane cleaning, leaving DO as it stands.
14. Coagulant pump 13. Coagulant tank

(Made of Al or Fe)
Conifrm water level.
MV Diffuser washing pump
P Confirm the residual amount.
Confirm the injection amount.
P
MV
Confirm the. air flow FI
rate 12. Membrane scour blower
FI
Static mixer
Analyze water quality Confirm screenings. FI P
BOD,T-N,T-P, etc.
MV
PIA 9. Chemical pump
Screens 5. NaOCl tank
Confirm the supply Confirm the filtration
Primary sedimentation treated water
flow rate. flow rate.

Confirm the circulation
Confirm the trans
MV FI P
flow rate.
membrane P
pressure.
Circulation solution
7. Suction pump
Aeration state
(Confirm that aeration is
uniform.)
Confirm the membrane

tank water level.
Confirm that ORP is within Membrane module
the range of -200 to 0mV. Discharged
Confirm that the dissolved
oxyten is within
Confirm the agitation state. the range of 1 to 4mg/L. Visually confirm water quality.
P M Analyze water quality.

P P BOD,T-N,T-P, etc.
Raw water pump Submerged mixer 8. Sludge circulation Excess sludge extraction pump
1. Flow equalization tank Figure

2. Anoxic4-4
tank Diagram
pumpof Operation Management
3. Aerobic tank Procedures4. Disinfection tank
Confirm the MLSS
(Membrane tank) concentration.
It is important to control the inspection items illustrated above to operate MBR system in a stable condition. 5,000 to 12,000mg/L
In particular, controlling the suction differential pressure is important. (Perform chemical cleaning before the trans membrane pressure
becomes larger than the initial trans membrane pressure by 15 kPa or greater. )
The aerobic tank water level, MLSS concentration, the aerobic tank air flow rate etc. are important inspection items
required for the stable operation of the MBR system.
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1.3. Cause of Troubles and Responses: Examples
Troubles can be roughly classified into those related to device and those related to the quality of treated water.
It is important to respond promptly to troubles without leaving them.
Major examples of troubles and responses to them are shown in Tables 4-4 and 4-5.
Table 4-4 Examples of Troubles Related to Device and Responses to Them
Inspection
Description of Troubles Causes Responses
Location
Inlet Sewage is overflowing through the
The screen is clogged. Clean the screen surface.
screen.
Flow The liquid level in the tank is Abnormal increase in raw water Reduce raw water volume.
equalization abnormally high. volume. Increase membrane filtration velocity (within
tank the control range).
Failure of raw water pump Perform inspection and repair.
Decline in the treatment capacity of See the rows for membrane module in this
the membrane module table.
Water is not agitated. Failure of the submerged mixer Perform inspection and repair.
Anoxic tank The liquid level in the tank is Decline in the treatment capacity of See the rows for membrane module in this
abnormally high. the membrane module table.
Water is not agitated. Failure of the submerged mixer. Perform inspection and repair.
Aerobic tank Decline in treatment capacity. Failure of the suction pump. Perform inspection and repair.
(membrane Adjust a proper flow rate in the pump.
module) Membrane surface is suspected to be Perform membrane cleaning.
clogged. Adjust the air flow rate for membrane
-> Decline air flow rate for membrane scrubbing.
scrubbing.
Treated water cannot be suck by a Insufficient airtightness of pipes. Inspect the connection and tighten bolts and
suction pump. nuts.
Trans membrane pressure rises Membrane flux is too high. Adjust proper flow rate in the suction pump.
faster and chemical cleaning Membrane surface is suspected to be Adjust the air flow rate for membrane
frequency is greater than standard. clogged. scrubbing to a proper value.
Perform membrane cleaning.
MLSS is too high. Adjust the flow rate in the circulation pump
to a proper value.
Increase the amount of excess sludge
extraction.
Foaming is so intense that bubbles Mixing in of a large amount of Use an antifoaming agent.
scatter outside the tank. detergent. Reduce raw water load etc.
Degradation in sludge properties.
Activated sludge is not agitated. Failure of the membrane blower. Perform inspection and repair.
The liquid level in the tank is Abnormality in the suction pump. Perform inspection and repair.
abnormally high. Adjust the filtration flow rate to a proper
value.
Membrane surface is suspected to be Perform membrane cleaning.
clogged. Adjust the air flow rate for membrane
scrubbing to a proper value.
Failure of the water level gauge. Perform inspection and repair.
49/60
Table 4-5 Examples of Troubles Related to the Quality of Treated Water and Responses to Them
Item Estimated Causes Responses
BOD Abnormal quality of incoming raw water Confirm the quality of raw water.
COD Decline in MLSS Adjust amount of sludge extraction.
Lack of aeration Adjust the air flow rate to a proper value (proper value: DO>1mg/L).
SS Leakage of pipes on the suction side. Inspect and repair pipes on the suction side.
Turbidity Membrane leakage. Perform the leakage inspection of the membrane.-> Repair or replace
the membrane.
T-N If denitrification is insufficient,*1
Abnormal quality of incoming raw water. Confirm the quality of raw water.
Poor mixing in the anoxic tank.
Decline in the MLSS concentration. Confirm the operating state of submerged mixer in anoxic tank.
Decrease the amount of sludge extraction. (Pay attention to a lack of
Rise in the ORP value. DO due to an increase in the MLSS concentration.)
Poor circulation of activated sludge. Adjust the ORP value into the proper range.
If nitrification is insufficient,*2 Adjust the circulation pump flow rate.
Abnormal quality of incoming raw water.
Decline in the MLSS concentration. Confirm the quality of raw water.
Lack of aeration. Decrease the amount of sludge extraction. (Pay attention to a lack of
Poor circulation of activated sludge. DO due to an increase in the MLSS concentration.)
Adjust the air flow rate to let DO fall in the proper range.
Adjust the circulation pump flow rate.
T-P Abnormal quality of incoming raw water. Confirm the quality of raw water.
Insufficient addition of coagulant. Inspect and repair coagulant pipes.
Adjust the amount of coagulant added.
Hexane extracts Abnormal quality of incoming raw water. Confirm the quality of raw water.
Decline in the MLSS concentration. Decrease the amount of sludge extraction. (Pay attention to a lack of
DO due to an increase in the MLSS concentration.)
Total coliform Lack of sterilizer. Replenish sterilizer.
Leakage of the suction pipe. Inspect and repair suction pipes.
Membrane leakage. Perform a membrane leakage inspection. -> Repair or replace the
membrane.
*1: If, taking design water quality (Table 4-1) as an instance, NO3-N in treated water is 15 mg/L or greater (depending on circulation ratio
and other factors).
*2: If, taking design water quality (Table 4-1) as an instance, NH4-N in treated water is 2 mg/L or greater (depending on circulation ratio and
other factors).
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1.4. Operation Management Record
It is recommended to use an operation management recording sheet for routine maintenance. Keeping a record
contributes to the investigation of causes for a trouble that may occur.
An example of an operation management recording sheet is given in Table 4-6. This check list is only an
example. Change it appropriately in accordance with a system introduced. It is strongly recommended to
manage measurement values for trans membrane pressure, water temperature, water quality, etc. by a
spreadsheet program and create graphs from those data.
Never fail to record the following requisite items and keep the record. The measurement frequency is required
to be once a week or more.
<1> Inspection items concerning extra fine screens (0.5 to 1 mm), an aerobic tank, and a membrane tank. (The
same tank may serve as an aerobic and membrane tank.)
<2> Water temperature in the membrane tank, trans membrane pressure, filtration flow rate, suction cycle, DO,
the air flow rate for membrane scrubbing, and the MLSS concentration.
<3> Results of the analysis of the quality of raw water and treated water: BOD, COD, and n-Hex extracts are
essential.
<4> Record of chemical cleaning (types of chemical cleaning, type/concentration of chemical, and trans
membrane pressures before and after cleaning).
<5> Maintenance and repair record.
51/60
Table 4-6 Operation Management Record Sheet (Example)
Plant name Inspection Date Time/Day/Date/Month/Year
Weather Temperature °C Inspector Seal
Inspection of each part Inspection measurement

Inspection item ○× Action Measurement items Measured value
Coarse screen State of screenings deposition Water temperature °C

Deposition state in a grit
Grit chamber MLSS mg/L
chamber
Fine screen Anoxic tank
State of screenings deposition ORP mV
(15 to 25mm)
Flow equalization tank pump pH
Flow Water level gauge DO mg/L

equalization
tank Submerged mixer Water temperature °C
State of sludge and scum Trans membrane
kPa
generation pressure
3
Operating state Filtration flow rate m /hour
Extra fine
Aerobic tank Filtration min
screen Screenings deposition status Filtration cycle
(Membrane Relaxation min
(0.5 to 1mm)
Clogging state separation DO mg/L
device)
3
Mixing state Blow volume m /hour
State of sludge and scum
MLSS mg/L
generation
Anoxic tank
Operating state of each Circulated sludge flow
m3/hour
measurement device rate
Water liquid level
Aeration state Water quality analysis

State of sludge and scum
Item Raw water Treated water
generation
Membrane filtration pump pH
Aerobic tank
Circulation pump BOD(mg/L)
(Membrane
separation Membrane blower COD(mg/L)
device)
Operating state of each
SS(mg/L)
measurement device
Water level T-N(mg/L)
Confirmation of membrane
NO2-N(mg/L)
filtrated water
Blower NO3-N(mg/L)
Sludge storage Water liquid level NH4-N(mg/L)

tank State of scum generation Organic-N(mg/L)
Odor T-P(mg/L)
Confirmation of residual
n-Hex(mg/L)
Disinfection chlorine
tank Clearness and transparency of
treated water
NaOCl tank Residual amount Remarks
Coagulant tank Residual amount
Dilution water
Water level
tank
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2. Starting up MBR System
2.1. Seeding Input
Seeding is put into MBR system when it starts up. Activated sludge from a plant which uses domestic
wastewater as raw water and employs a screen with a relatively small slot opening for pretreatment is suitable
as seeding. Highly concentrated sludge such as return sludge is suitable in light of ease of transport and
usability. If sludge from a sludge storage tank is used, please use it only after confirming that the sludge is not
putrefied and that no raw sludge extracted from a primary sedimentation tank is mixed into it.
Put seeding into a reactor tank after removing screenings through an extra fine screen as much as possible.
It is recommended to make the MLSS concentration 3,000 mg/L or above in order to shorten the time for
starting up MBR system and to make it easier to perform membrane filtration. If a sufficient MLSS
concentration cannot be ensured (1,000 to 3,000 mg/L) due to insufficient seeding, supply raw water while
taking into account BOD-MLSS load. (BOD-MLSS load is preferred to be 0.15 kg-BOD/kg-MLSS/day or less.)
Sludge input is calculated by the following formula.
Seeding Amount Q =(Q1+Q2)×n÷n’
Q1: Anoxic tank capacity
Q2: Aerobic tank capacity
n: Target MLSS concentration
n´: Seeding concentration (n´ > n)
BOD-MLSS load is calculated by the following formula.
BOD-MLSS Load =
3
(Raw water BOD concentration (mg/L)×Treatment volume (m /day))
3
÷(Aerobic tank capacity(m )×Aerobic tank MLSS concentration (mg/L))
It is recommended to record data on sludge properties including seeding concentration (MLSS, MLVSS), pH,
filter paper filtration measurement, and viscosity as basic data for examining causes for troubles when seeding
turns out to be unsuccessful or when additional activated sludge for seeding comes to be required.
2.2. Starting Operation

Start filtration operation after activating the anoxic tank mixer, the circulation pump, and the blower to mix
water and sludge well. If seeding is diluted by raw water, perform aeration and start filtration after soluble BOD
is sufficiently processed. Starting filtration operation when soluble BOD remains may cause a rise in trans
membrane pressure and membrane clogging. Estimate whether soluble BOD has been processed or not on the
basis of raw water BOD concentration, sludge concentration, and tank capacity or by COD pack testing.
2.3. Transition to Steady Operation

When the MLSS concentration of the aerobic tank reaches about 5,000 to 6,000 mg/L, start extracting sludge.
Adjust the amount of excess sludge extraction so that the MLSS concentration keeps within the specified range.
2.4. Start-up Troubles and Responses to Them

A) Foaming
Use an alcoholic, ether, or ester antifoaming agent if foaming occurs. Do not use any silicon
antifoaming agent, which causes membrane clogging.
B) pH decrease
A pH decrease may occur due to a progress in nitrification or a lack of denitrification. Confirm DO of
the aerobic tank and ORP of the anoxic tank and adjust the aeration volume and the sludge
circulation volume or perform intermittent operation of blower. Note that pH is particularly subject
to variation at start-up.
53/60
C) Unattained nitrogen removal rate
The reasons why T-N concentration of treated water is high may be 1. a lack of progress in
nitrification reaction and/or 2. a lack of progress in denitrification. Measure NO3-N and NH4-N of
treated water first to identify the cause.
If NH4-N remains in treated water, 1. above (a lack of progress in nitrification reaction) is considered
to be the case. Nitrification may not progress well at the early stage of operation due to a low
nitrification bacteria concentration. If the aerobic tank's DO is maintained at 1 mg/L or greater,
nitrification bacteria may proliferate with acclimation to facilitate nitrification reaction.
If there is little NH4-N and if NO3-N is more than the theoretical value, 2. above (a lack of progress in
denitrification) is considered to be the case. Denitrification tends not to occur in the anoxic tank at
start-up due to a low MLSS concentration. In general, this is improved with a rise in the MLSS
concentration.
3. Membrane Repair
Described below is the procedure for repairing membrane with epoxy resin adhesive when an element's hollow
fiber membrane is damaged during operation or sampled for analysis.
3.1. Preparation
A) Water resistant, two-part cold-setting epoxy resin adhesive (One that sets within an hour is
recommended.)
B) Cutting nipper (or scissors)
C) Paper towel, tissue paper, or clean waste cloth (generically referred to as “paper” hereinafter)
3.2. Repair procedure

1 Remove sludge adhering on an element by washing it with water.
2 Cut the damaged hollow fiber at about 30 to 50 mm from the potting end face.
3 After dehydrating the tip of the cut membrane with paper, insert paper at the root of the membrane to let
the tip of the fiber protrude from the surface and fix it in that state.
[Note] Rubbing a hollow fiber membrane strongly with paper may damage its surface.
Dehydrate the membrane by pushing paper against it.
4 After mixing the base resin and the accelerator of the epoxy resin adhesive used in accordance with its
instruction, dip the mixture with a skewer or any such object and apply it to the tip of the hollow fiber in
such a manner as to make it look like the head of a match as illustrated by Figure 4-5. Adjust the amount
of the epoxy resin adhesive to be applied to avoid it from dripping. It may be applied twice or when it
becomes viscose to some extent.
5 After confirming that the resin part is no longer sticky by touching it, remove paper and install the element
back to the module.
54/60
About 30 to 50mm Epoxy resin adhesive
Paper
Hollow fiber
Element permeate header
Figure 4-5 Schematic Diagram of the Procedure for Repairing a Membrane
3.3. Notes
1 It may take significantly long for the adhesive to set under low temperature. If repair is to take place under
the temperature of 10 °C or below, it is recommended to use an epoxy resin adhesive that sets faster or
repair a membrane indoors.
2 Take care not to let an element dry as it needs to be rehydrophilized if it dries.
3 If the epoxy resin adhesive used gets into eyes, please take appropriate steps in accordance with its
instruction.
55/60
4. Procedure for Storing the Product
Store the unused product in a dry condition.
Store elements in the temperature range of 0°C to 40°C and avoid them being frozen.
Store an element once used in a wet condition outside the system without drying it.
Drying an element once used dehydrophobizes it and results in a significant rise in trans membrane
pressure. If the element is to be used again, it needs to be chemically cleaned and rehydrophilized.
1 Store unused module products in a cool dark place in a dry condition, avoiding its exposure to rain and
wind. Do not let unused elements get wet since storing them in a wet condition for a long period of time
may cause a decline in permeability and mold growth.
2 Store a module used in MBR system in a wet condition if it is to be stored for a long period of time. Fouling
substance remains adhered to the surface of a hollow fiber membrane even if it has been washed with
clean water and appears clean. If it is dried and stored subsequently, sludge and fouling substance will
fixate on the membrane surface like a mud cake, and it may tend to be clogged when it is used again.
Fouling substance which has fixated does not easily soften and can no longer be fully removed by chemical
cleaning.
Follow the following procedure in storing a module in a wet condition for a long period of time.
A) Perform chemical soak cleaning of a module to be stored after pulling it from a tank and washing it
with water.
B) After chemical soak cleaning, fill a tank with tap water (or any water of comparable quality) and
immerse the module in it. Store the module in a cool dark place that avoids direct sunlight.
C) When storing a module for a long period of time, change water about 1 to 4 times a month to avoid
the propagation of microorganisms in water that causes putrefaction. Take care not to let water in
the tank frozen in a cold area.
D) When a stored module is to be used again, perform its chemical soak cleaning with NaOCl of about
3,000 mg/L outside the system since microorganisms may have adhered on elements' surfaces. The
cleaning procedure is the same as that for normal chemical cleaning (Chapter 2.7-2).
Note: Drying an element once used may reduce its hydrophilicity to cause a significant rise in trans
membrane pressure. In such a case, it needs to be rehydrophilized before reusing it. Inquire our staff
about details in carrying out rehydrophilizing.
3 In a cold area, never fail to store the unused product in a dry condition, covered with plastic sheet or the
like. Store a wet, used membrane without being frozen.
4 If an insect or mouse, etc. goes into the product, it may be damaged. Either avoid storing the product in a
place where they may go into or take a step to avoid them going into the product.
56/60
5. Diffuser Cleaning
This section describes the procedure for cleaning a perforated SUS pipe diffuser of a module to eliminate
clogging substance when it is clogged.
5.1. Personal Protective Equipment
A) Helmet
B) Safety belt
C) Safety gloves
D) Safety goggles
5.2. Necessary Tools
A) Wrench ×2(M10, 16)
B) Pipe wrench
C) Phillips head screwdriver
5.3. Procedure
1 Lift up a module and place it on a level stable surface in order to prevent it from overturning.
Take the following safety measures.
A) Take appropriate cure after lifting up module, throughout cleaning, and until the module is restored,
including setting up a fence to prevent falling into the tank, a cover, a danger marking.
B) Be careful if you work on a concrete floor or iron plate as they are slippery.
C) Confirm that an appropriate step has been taken to avoid wastewater from cleaning flow out of your
place of business.
2 Separate the membrane and diffuser parts of the module.
(It can be cleaned with both parts connected, but be sure to take steps to avoid it from overturning in that
case.)
3 Remove the flanges from the main pipe and screw caps from branch pipes. (Figure 4-6)
4 Flush sludge accumulating in the diffuser by using a nozzled water hose, high pressure washer, etc.
5 Confirm that diffuser holes are open by visually inspecting the inside of the diffuser after cleaning.
6 Attach the flanges to the main pipe and the screw caps to the branch pipes. Wrap the screw caps with
sealing tape after attaching them to the branch pipes.
7 Connect the membrane and diffuser parts of the module. Align the lot number markings on both parts in
connecting them. (See Chapter 3.45)
8 Put the module back to the tank and connect the filtration pipe and the diffuser pipe to it.
9 Perform aeration to confirm that the module is aerated uniformly from the top.
Screw caps
Flanges
Figure 4-6 Flanges and Screw Caps Connected to the Main Pipe of a Module (diffuser part)
57/60
Chapter 5 Appendix
1. List of Consumables
The list of consumables is given in Table 5-1, which gives an estimated replacement period for each of them.
As the life of each part differs by raw water, conditions of use, and environment, please confirm it by inspection.
Table 5-1 List of Consumables

Item Estimated replacement period *
Membrane module Every 15 years
Membrane element Every 5 to 10 years
Permeate adapter Replace it at the same with the element
Permeate hose (for a module whose model number starts with SAJ) Every 3 years
Rubber diffuser with slits Every 3 years
*: Replacement frequency may vary by raw water, conditions of use, and environment.
No guarantee is hereby provided.
2. Chemical Resistance of the Product

The chemical resistance of the product is shown in Table 5-2. Use the product only in MBR system for organic
wastewater whose main constituent is water. Do not use chemicals other than those listed in Chapter 2.8 of this
manual.
Table 5-2 Chemical Resistance of the Product

[Acid]
エ
ム
ト
ウ
酸
酢
硫
塩
シ
ク
ナ
化
水
類
リ
ュ
ン
タ
ス
ノ
テ
ー
ル %w
0345t
Acetic acid 5 wt% ○

Sulfuric acid 5 wt% ○
hydrochloric acid 5 wt% ○
Oxalic acid 5 wt% ○
Citric acid 5 wt% ○
[Alkaline]
Sodium hydroxide 4 wt% ×
[Alcohol]
Ethanol 30 wt% ○
[Organic solvent in general]
Esters ×
Ketones ×
Halogenated hydrocarbon ×
Kerosene ×
Gasoline ×
[Other liquid]
Sodium hypochlorite 300 mg/L ○
Sodium hypochlorite 3000 mg/L ○
Sea water
Tap water
: May be used during operation.
○ : Can be used for a short period of time such as for chemical cleaning.
: May not be used in principle. (Consult with us about conditions under which it may be used.)
× : May not be used.
58/60
59/60
STERAPORE™ 5000 Series Instruction Manual
Second Edition, June, 2012
----------------------------------------For inquiries, please contact:
Membrane Department, Aqua Division

Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
1-1, Marunouchi 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8253, Japan

TEL:03-6748-7581 / FAX:03-3286-1387
E-mail:membrane@mrc.co.jp
URL:http://www.mrc.co.jp/sterapore
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STERAPORE™ 5000 Series Instruction Manual

2 Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) (See Chapter 2.4 and Chapter 4.1)

3 Membrane Separation Device

4 Flux (See Chapter 2.5)

6 Raw Water (See Chapter 2.1)

CHAPTER 2 DESIGN GUIDELINES 13

4. ACTIVATED SLUDGE REQUIREMENTS 17

5. FILTRATION OPERATION PROCEDURES 19

7. CHEMICAL CLEANING PROCEDURES 23

8. MEMBRANE TANK LAYOUT AND THE MINIMUM WATER DEPTH 30

CHAPTER 3 INSTALLATION AND COMMISSIONING 32

CHAPTER 4 OPERATION MANAGEMENT 44

Table 1-1 Element Specifications

Potting resin - Polyurethane resin

Table 1-2 Module Specifications List (Elements used: SADF2590)

Standard accessories Not included:

Standard accessories Not included:

1. Composition of MBR Related Equipment

Raw water pump 8. Sludge circulation Excess sludge extraction pump

Figure 2-1 Diagram of MBR System (Example)

1.1. Roles of Main Components and Tanks in MBR System

4 Treated water tank

6 Dilution water tank

8 Sludge circulation pump

10 Dilution water pump

12 Membrane scour blower

2.2. Antifoaming Agent

3.1. Target Substances and Treatment Procedures

3 Grease and oil

Acid Alkaline Coagulant

Froth storage tank

Membrane flux at start-up (for reference)

4.2. Sludge Viscosity

5.2. Configuring a Suction Pump

5.3. Configuring Intermittent Suction Settings

Figure 2-3 Conceptual Diagram of Membrane Cleaning

5.4. Notes on Equipment Design

SAJ1890 SAJ4890S SAJ6090S

6.2. Procedures for Dealing with Clogged Diffusers

Membrane scour blower Membrane tank

7.2. Cleaning Modes

3 Chemical soak cleaning (off line cleaning)

7.3. Acid Cleaning

Table 2-3 Types of Chemical Cleaning

Maintenance Injection time: about 15 to

MV Diffuser washing pump

Figure 2-5 Schematic Diagram of Chemical Cleaning Equipment

The total of the above is 49 L.

5 Dilution water pump

7.4.3. Cleaning Process Program

7.5. Other Caveats

7.5.2. Countermeasures against a Raw Water Inflow during Chemical Cleaning

Open the valve A after connecting a P

7.6. Caveats for Chemical Soak Cleaning

8.2. Plane Layout

a) Modules whose model number starts with SAA or SAB

b) Modules whose model number starts with SAJ

Figure 2-7 Plane Layout of Modules

8.3. Minimum Water Depth

Table 2-6 List of the Minimum Water Depths

SAB15090 SAB30090 SAJ1890 SAJ4890 SAJ6090

Minimum water depth (m) 2.7 2.7 1.9 1.9 1.9

1.1. Packing and Transport