Their goal was to develop the largest MBR module available on the market, which carries membrane laminate technology by Microdyn-Nadir, and at the same time is a rotating system. This is said to result in lower operating and investment costs, as well as an increase in reliability and packing density. The VRM system by Huber is a rotating membrane system. The membrane modules are submerged into the activated sludge and are mounted segmentally onto air tubes. The trapezoidal membrane segments are rotated through an air induced flushing stream driven by a filter drive. The rising air bubbles are continuously cleaning the membrane laminate sheets. The cover layer in the interstices of the laminate sheets is removed reliably and therefore fouling can significantly be reduced. It is claimed energy demand is minimized at the same time. The trapezoidal membrane segments are bringing BIO-CEL technology developed by Microdyn-Nadir into play. Microdyn-Nadir says unlike a plate and frame construction, the BIO-CEL is backwashable like a hollow fiber module and at the same time problems such as fibre clogging cannot occur. Moreover, is claimed to be the BIO-CEL is the only module design that can be cleaned mechanically. The smart Mechanical Cleaning Process (MCP) minimizes chemical demand or even makes the use of chemicals unnecessary. This saves cost, minimizes downtime due to required intensive cleanings and keeps the permeability stable. In addition, the BIO-CEL membrane laminate technology is equipped with a self-healing mechanism which allows the laminate to ‘heal’ itself in less than two minutes. This results in high effluent qualities even in case of damages caused to the membrane.
