Ultrafiltration (UF)

Ultrafiltration of water – what is it?

Ultrafiltration, also referred to as molecular filtration, involves the precise separation of micro-organisms on the surface of liquids, such as any bacteria or viruses, and colloidal particles and macromolecules from water. UF also retains non-ionic substances. During the pressure-controlled process, particles of a specific size – appropriate to the pore size and membrane used – are sieved out. As well as reducing the risk of bacteria, ultrafiltration is also an excellent water treatment method.

Depending on requirements, ultrafiltration can range from extremely fine elements – as small as 3 kilodaltons (kDa) – to larger elements at 150 kDa. The extensive use of membranes allows water to be treated with an ideal balance between rejection and permeability of the ultrafiltration barrier.

Membranes are used in modern UF systems. Among other things, an osmotic membrane is able to block most bacteria and viruses, guaranteeing high-quality water as a result. Three types of membranes are used, depending on the quality of the liquid to be supplied:

  • spiral membranes,
  • ceramic membranes,
  • cylindrical membranes.

Due to their simple design, modular systems can be freely separated for upgrades or maintenance without affecting the performance of the overall system. What’s more, potential leaks are localised automatically, reducing potential operational downtime.

Ultrafiltration systems are also being consistently downsized, so that they require less installation space. Furthermore, current UF purification systems, together with the reduction in size, have a better screening capacity. Ultrafiltration membranes form an effective barrier to viruses, colloids, suspended solids or other particles. Fine UF membranes can provide a final filtrate with a turbidity of less than 0.1 NTU.

Ultrafiltration meets stringent quality requirements covering, among others, water supply systems, finding applications in industry and the municipal sector, facilitated by the wide range of possible processes. UF can also be used as a form of pretreatment in reverse osmosis and nanofiltration processes. Wastewater treatment plants also benefit from this method of removing water contamination. It is an excellent way to remove suspended solids and significantly improve water quality.

UF also meets the objectives of removing ionic contaminants from water reservoirs and water sources used to supply municipal lines. Using a membrane, using a method to physically remove micro-organisms from liquids, ultrafiltration effectively reduces the use of chemicals.

The ultrafiltration system is also successfully used in households using water treatment plants. It makes it possible to obtain a safe liquid free of bacteria and viruses. It is a great solution for people who consume large quantities of water.

 

We separate two types of UF:

  • pressure

The pump feeds water under pressure to the UF.

  • Vacuum

Water is drawn in by a pump located behind the UF modules.

Contact us to find out more about the details of our business offer and cooperation opportunities. We not only provide an attractive price offer and high quality of our product range, but also full technical support and product advice on ultrafiltration and other technological solutions. Also check out ion exchange resins and AVISTA chemicals for reverse osmosis.

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