ABSTRACT
Over the last two decades, a surge of membrane bioreactor (MBR) installations worldwide has led to a rapid increase in MBR design and operational knowledge. Many aspects of MBR design procedures overlap with those of conventional activated sludge (CAS) systems; however, the design procedures for the pretreatment, aeration, and membrane systems vary from CAS systems and require special attention. Appropriately designing these processes leads to an increase in permeate water quality reliability, overall system robustness, and can also significantly reduce energy consumption and prolong the life of the membranes. The purpose of this chapter is to provide considerations and protocols for designing MBR plants including design principles for pretreatment systems, bioreactors, aeration systems, and membrane equipment. A design example is also provided at the end of the chapter.
