Ultrafilters and Ultrafiltration (UF) Systems

Falling in the range between nanofiltration and microfiltration, ultrafiltration (UF) is another reliable and cost effective water treatment method.

This separation process is used in industry and research for purifying and concentrating macromolecular solutions, especially protein solutions with other applications including

• Process and waste water treatment
• Filtration of effluent from paper pulp mill
• Cheese manufacture (using ultrafiltered milk)
• Removal of some bacteria from milk
• Fruit juice concentration and clarification
• Laboratory grade manufacturing

The ultrafiltration membrane pore size creates a barrier to suspended solid, bacteria, colloids and viruses whilst still allowing passage of ions. As such, the mineral content of water passing through an ultrafiltration membrane does not appreciably change (further removal of mineral contact might be achieved through the use of Ion exchange resin treatments such as water softening, deionisation or demineralisation depending on the fuller scope of the process required).

UF membranes operate at much lower pressures than Reverse Osmosis (RO) membranes and require a higher degree of cross-flow to prevent plug fouling.

A more recent development in membrane technology, the cost of ultrafiltration membranes has reduced considerably in recent years, making it a much more effective cost option for a number of applications, including river extraction. Ultrafiltration is also often used as a very effective pre-treatment to reverse osmosis.

Typically employed in hollow fibre construction, operation of ultrafiltration membranes can be from outside-to-in (i.e. fed from outside the fibre with permeate collected from within) or inside-to-out, dependent upon the specific manufacturer and application. The robust construction of the fibres generally enables periodic back flushing of membranes to reduce plug fouling. The cleaning of membranes is also enhanced by the introduction of chemicals, such as sodium hypochlorite or sodium hydroxide, via a dedicated Clean in Place (CIP).

Our range of Ultrafiltration Systems

AllWater Technologies Ltd offers a wide range of ultrafiltration plants and replacement ultrafiltration membranes, and we have a fleet of experienced engineers who are able to cater to your service and refurbishment requirements.