A membrane bioreactor (MBR) plant was failing to meet its flow to full treatment because of fouling problems with the membranes.
A model of the MBR was used to look at the effects of scouring air flow, relaxation periods and the period between relaxations. The model also included the effect of flow reduction caused by closing and opening the outlet valves at the start and end of each relaxation period. The model predicted that running with a higher air flow and longer periods between relaxation events would permit the MBR to accommodate the required additional flow.
