Submerged Membrane Module
for MBRTORAY “MEMBRAY”"TMR090 Series"
Instruction Manual

Toray Industries, Inc.
Water Treatment Division
1-1, Nihonbashi-muromachi 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-8666 Japan
Tel: +81-3-3245-4542
Fax: +81-3-3245-4913
URL: http://www.toraywater.com
Published: April 2013

GIRE-097-2-2

Content
I.

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................ 1
1.

Features of MBR ................................................................................................................... 1

2.

Outline of “TMR090 Series”................................................................................................... 2II.

FOR SAFE OPERATION OF “TMR090 Series” ............................................................................ 6
1.

Unpacking and Installation .................................................................................................... 62.

Operation and Maintenance .................................................................................................. 7

3.

Chemical Cleaning of Element .............................................................................................. 8

III.

SPECIFICATIONS AND PERFORMANCE OF “TMR090 Series” ............................................ 10

1.

Specifications of Element .................................................................................................... 10

2.

Specifications of Polyurethane Permeate Tube .................................................................. 10

3.

Specifications and Performance of "TMR090 Series" Module............................................ 11IV.

MEMBRANE FILTRATION PROCESS DESIGN FOR “TMR090 SERIES” ............................ 13

1.

Standard Filtration Pattern .................................................................................................. 13

2.

Flow Diagram of Membrane Filtration Process ................................................................... 14

3.

Layout of “TMR090 Series” Modules in Membrane Submerged Tank ............................... 19

4.

Piping ................................................................................................................................... 22

V.

INSTALLATION OF “TMR090 SERIES” ....................................................................................... 26
1.

Preparatory Procedure ........................................................................................................ 26

2.

Unloading/lifting Products.................................................................................................... 26

3.

Checking Products .............................................................................................................. 27

4.

Storage Products ................................................................................................................. 27

5.

Installation Products ............................................................................................................ 28

VI.

START OF OPERATION ................................................................................................................ 30

1.

Clean Water Operation........................................................................................................ 30

2.

Seeding Sludge Injection..................................................................................................... 31

3.

Actual Filtration Operation ................................................................................................... 31

VII.

OPERATION CONTROL .............................................................................................................. 33

1.

Standard Operating Conditions ........................................................................................... 33

2.

Operating Parameters ......................................................................................................... 35

3.

Basic Control Philosophy .................................................................................................... 36

4.

Daily Inspection ................................................................................................................... 37

VIII. MAINTENANCE OF “TMR090 SERIES” ...................................................................................... 40
1.

Maintenance Items and Maintenance Frequency ............................................................... 40

2.

Air Diffuser Cleaning............................................................................................................ 41

3.

Chemical Cleaning of Element ............................................................................................ 42

4.

Chemical Agents Used for Chemical Cleaning ................................................................... 42

5.

Handling of Chemical Agents .............................................................................................. 43
GIRE-097-2-2

6.

Chemical Cleaning Procedure............................................................................................. 46

7.

Lifting Procedure ................................................................................................................. 50

8.

Replacement of Element Fixing Gaskets ............................................................................ 51

9.

Element Replacement ......................................................................................................... 52

10.

Air Diffuser Replacement ................................................................................................. 54

11.

Storage Products after Use ............................................................................................. 56

12.

Disposing Procedure ....................................................................................................... 57

IX.

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST ....................................................................................................... 58

X.

TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................................... 59

XI.

APPENDIX ........................................................................................................................................ 60

Symbols used in this manual!

DANGER

This symbol is used to indicate an imminent hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in serious injury or death.

!

WARNING

This symbol is used to indicate a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, can result in serious injury or death.

!

CAUTION

This symbol is used to indicate a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in injury or property damage.

GIRE-097-2-2

I.

INTRODUCTION“MEMBRAY” is a submerged membrane module suitable for the membrane bioreactor
system (MBR) that has been developed in Toray Industries, Inc based on the years ofexperience of polymer science and the membrane technologies.
"TMR090 Series" is a lineup of "MEMBRAY", which is more compact compared to the other"TMR140 Series", thus, suitable for the application where only a limited space is available,
such as for containerized package plants, domestic wastewater treatment, reclamation inbuildings or on marine boats application.
"TMR090 Series" is equipped with fine-bubble air diffusers, which significantly reduces thedaily cleaning operation of air diffusers and increases the oxygen dissolution efficiency.
This manual describes the specifications of "TMR090 Series", necessary peripheral
equipments and the safe and proper handling method of the module during installation,
operation and maintenance works.
Designer and operators should thoroughly read this manual to ensure stable operation.
1.

Features of MBR

The process flow of the conventional activated sludge system (CAS) and MBR are shown in
Fig.I-1 and Fig.I-2, respectively.
Sedimentation Tank

Aeration Tank

Waste
water

Discharge

Fig. I-1 CAS Flow
Waste
water

Submerged Membrane
ModuleDischarge or Reuse

Membrane
Submerged
TankRO
membrane

Reuse

Fig. I-2 MBR Flow

MBR provides the following advantages:(1) Small Footprint
Unlike CAS, MBR separates sludge within aeration tank using membranes, thus eliminate

1

GIRE-097-2-2

the space for preparing sedimentation tank. Also with membrane, MBR can hold higher
concentration of activated sludge in the aeration tank, so its volume can be reduced. As aresult, MBR provides smaller footprint compared to CAS.
(2) High quality of treated water
MBR removes suspended solid (SS) from the sludge liquid with membrane much morecertainly than conventional sedimentation process. MBR also rejects microorganisms suchas Escherichia coli and Cryptosporidium efficiently.
2.

Outline of “TMR090 Series”“TMR090 Series” is the membrane module composed of the element block and the aeration
block. The element block contains a number of membrane elements set at equal clearance,each of which has flat sheet membranes fixed on both sides of ABS panel. Each element isconnected via polyurethane tube to the permeated water manifold. The aeration block
consists of fine-bubble air diffusers to supply scouring air (see Fig.I-3). This module is usedsubmerged in sludge liquid. The following shows the features of “TMR090 Series”.
Permeated Water Manifold

Tube

Element Fixing
BracketElement Block

Aeration Block

Fine-bubble
Air Diffuser

Fig. I-3

Element

Appearance of "TMR090-050S"

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(1) Shape of Element
The membrane element is a flat sheet type as shown in Fig.I-4. At the normal filtration
operation, the sludge accumulated on the membrane surface is cleaned up effectively withupward water stream generated with the scouring air supplied from the air diffusers installedat the bottom side (Fig.I-5). This mechanism ensures stable filtration, since the membrane
does not easily admit of sludge adherence to its surface. In addition, shorter element (1059mm) compared to "TMR140 Series" allows the use in the space with height limitation.

Supporting panel
515 mmPermeated Water
Nozzle1059 mm

MembraneFig. I-4 Structure of Element
Element

Permeated
Water

Air
Air Diffuser

Membrane

Supportingpanel

Membrane

Sludgeflock

Fig. I-5 Filtration Principle of Activated Sludge

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(2) Membrane Structure
The flat sheet membrane consists of PVDF (Polyvinylidene Fluoride) functional layer and thebase layer of PET (polyester) non-woven fabric. This structure gives the membrane superior
physical strength and high chemical resistance.
(3) Membrane Pore Size
Numerous small-size pores are distributed evenly over the membrane surface with a sharp
pore-size distribution. This structure gives outstanding high treated water quality andexcellent water permeability, making the membrane highly resistant to clogging (see Fig.I-6
and Fig.I-7) compared to other membranes. The average pore size is 0.08 micron meter.

Toray

3.0 micron

PVDF

Other

3.0 micron

Membrane
MembraneFig. I-6 Membrane Surface (photo)

Number of pore (1012/m2)

1.5

PVDF

Toray PVDF Membrane
1.0

Other Membrane

東レBF014
0.5

クボタ
0

0

0.2

0.4

0.6

Pore Size (micron)

0.8

Fig. I-7 Pore Size Distribution

4

GIRE-097-2-2(4)Element replacement

Each element can be taken out from the modules separately for the inspection or the
replacement. In the case of the membrane damage, the filtration operation can be recovered
in a short time by replacing relevant elements one by one with spare ones.
(5) Fine-bubble Air Diffusers"TMR090 Series" is equipped with fine-bubble air diffusers, which significantly reduces thedaily cleaning operation of air diffusers and additionally increase the oxygen dissolution
efficiency to 1.3-2.0 times as high as the coarse-bubble diffusers.

5

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II.

FOR SAFE OPERATION OF “TMR090 Series”

Before using “TMR090 Series”, please thoroughly read this Instruction Manual and follow the
instructions described in this manual, especially the safety precautions shown below. The
details of each precaution are described in the relevant chapter.
1.

Unpacking and Installation!

DANGER

When lifting “TMR090 Series” or its part, please attach chains orslings to it and raise it straight upward calmly to prevent it fromshaking. Please never allow any person under lifted article.

!

DANGER

Please use chains or slings compatible with lifting weight whenlifting "TMR090 Series" or its part.

!

DANGER

When installing “TMR090 Series” module, please set up a footholdin advance. Please never climb the module. Please use protective
equipment to ensure the safety of workers.

!

CAUTIONAt transportation, storage and installation, please take appropriate
measures to protect "TMR090 Series" or its part from damage.
Please don't put any heavy objects on the module. Please takecare to protect the module from collision with other objects.

!

CAUTION

Please do not leave "TMR090 Series" for hours in the place where
the temperature is higher than 40 °C or in the place exposed todirect sunlight.

!

CAUTION

Please take adequate measures to protect “TMR090 Series” fromsparks caused by welding, fusion cutting or grinding throughout theentire process from installation work to operation startup.

!

CAUTION

Please protect “TMR090 Series” from freezing at any time.

!

CAUTION

Please don't pressurize the permeate side of "TMR090 Series".

CAUTION

Please install the screen with openings of 3.0 mm or under before
the membrane submerged tank. It is recommended to use themesh type screen. Overflow or waste carryover must be avoided at
any time.

!

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2.

Operation and Maintenance!

WARNING

Don't use the treated water for drinking.

!

WARNING

Before discharging the treated water to the environment or reusing
it, make sure to analyze its quality and confirm that the water
quality meets the intended purpose.

!

WARNING!

CAUTION!

CAUTION

Don’t use the ground water, which contains considerable amountof iron, manganese, calcium or silica, for the clean water operation
as it may cause the clogging of the membrane.

!

CAUTION

Don't continue the clean water operation unnecessarily. A
long-time filtration of clean water tends to cause the clogging.

!

CAUTION

Once the membrane gets wet, keep it wet. If the wet membrane isdried up again, the permeability of the membrane might bedecreased seriously.

!

CAUTION

When feeding the seeding sludge, be sure to remove foreign
substances from it with the screen with openings of 5mm or under.

!

CAUTION

Don't do the filtration operation without supplying the scouring air ina right way, or the membrane will be clogged severely.

!

CAUTION

Don't put in the activated sludge liquid chemicals, toxic agents, oils
or other substances that may adversely affect activated sludge.

Don't burn the membranes without appropriate facilities sinceharmful Hydrogen fluoride (HF) gas is generated at burning.
When dispose membranes, please apply a service of a qualified
waste disposing company.
When the clean water operation, charging clean water to themembrane submerged basin with the air discharge valve open to
release air from the elements. After charging water, close the air
discharge valve.

7

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!

CAUTION

Please avoid abrupt changes of operating conditions, especiallypH, temperature and the suction pressure of the membrane even
within the range of the standard operating conditions (Table VII-1).

!

CAUTION

Please replace the renewal parts periodically or when thedeterioration is detected at the inspection.

!

CAUTION

Prevent “TMR090 Series” from freezing at any time.

!

CAUTION!

!

3.

CAUTIONCAUTION

Please take care not to dry the membranes when taking "TMR090
Series" out of the liquid for the inspection or the maintenance. If
the wet membrane is dried up again, the permeability of themembrane might be decreased seriously.
Please stop the scouring air when the filtration operation stops
except for the following conditions:1) In case of applying intermittent filtration, do not stop thescouring air for each relaxation period.
2) In case that the plant operation stops for a while, aeration isapplicable for mixing or aeration demand, however, the flowrate should be controlled minimal.
Please don’t re-use the old permeate tubes once disconnectedfrom the nozzles since the connection tightness of the tubes are
reduced.

Chemical Cleaning of Element
The chemical agents used for the chemical cleaning are harmful tothe health. When handling chemicals, please read their material
safety data sheet (MSDS) in advance and make sure to wear
necessary protectors such as protective goggles and protective
gloves.

!

WARNING!

WARNING

If the chemical agents stick to your skin or clothes, immediately
wash it away with enough amount of running water.

!

WARNING

If the chemical agents enter your eyes, immediately wash it awaywith enough amount of running water and see the doctor.

8

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WARNING

If any abnormality is found in the equipment during chemicalcleaning, immediately stop operation and check it.

!

WARNINGIf chemical is injected forcibly directly with the chemical feed pumpor by any other means, the internal pressure of the elements will
increase and the elements will get damaged. Be sure to injectchemical with the pressure of lower than 10 kPa (100 mbar).

!

WARNING!

WARNING

Please store the chemical agents in a dark cold place free fromdirect sunlight.

!

WARNING

Please use the appropriate tank or the container, for storing thechemical agent, made of the material having enough corrosion
resistance to each chemical agent.

!

WARNING

Don't mix sodium hypochlorite with acids, including oxalic acid or
citric acid; otherwise toxic chlorine gas is generated.

!

CAUTION

Don't mix sodium hypochlorite with heavy metals.

!

CAUTION

Please stop the scouring air during the chemical cleaning, or themembrane elements might be damaged.

!

When injecting the chemical agents at the chemical cleaning,please confirm beforehand that the modules are completely
submerged in the liquid and the liquid level of the membrane
submerged tank is higher by more than 300 mm than the top of themodule.

9

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III.
1.

SPECIFICATIONS AND PERFORMANCE OF “TMR090 Series”
Specifications of Element

TableIII-1 and Fig.III-1 shows the specifications and the appearance of the element for
TMR090 Series, respectively.
Table III-1 Specifications of Element (TSP-50100)
Model nameMembrane configuration

TSP-50100
Flat sheet

Application

Filtration of activated sludge

Filtration method

Suction filtration
0.08

Nominal pore size (µm)
Effective membrane area (m2)Dimensions (mm)Weight (kg)Main material

0.9

Total width

515

Total height

1059

Thickness

13.5

Dry

3.0

Wet (Reference)

5.0

Membrane

PVDF and PET non-woven fabricSupporting panel

ABS resin

105
9
9
0

Permeated water nozzle

51
5

Fig.III-1
2.

Appearance of Element (unit: mm)

Specifications of Polyurethane Permeate Tube

Table III-2 shows the specifications of polyurethane permeate tube.
Table III-2 Specifications of Polyurethane Permeate Tube
Material
Inside diameter / outside diameter / total length(mm)

Thermoplastic polyether-polyurethane
TPU-ARET*1
8/11/380*Allowable temperature limit: 60 degree C*1 The material name due to the ISO-18064.

10GIRE-097-2-2

3.

Specifications and Performance of "TMR090 Series" Module

Table III-3 shows the specifications of "TMR090 Series" modules.
EPDM is equipped as standard membrane material for the diffuser. EPDM has been used ina lot of application for sewage treatment and industrial wastewater treatment and wears well.
However, EPDM is weak to oil and solvent. For wastewater containing high concentration ofoil and solvent, polyurethane is the preferable choice. We have the line-up of polyurethane
membrane diffuser-equipped TMR090 as an option. Please contact us if you have any
difficulties in choosing the type of diffuser.
Table III-3 Specifications of "TMR090 Series" Modules
Model name

TMR090-050S

TMR090-100S

50

100

1 deck 1 row

1 deck 1 row

730

730

Length (mm)

990

1720

Height (mm)

1470

1470

265

460

475

885

Number of membrane elements
Element block structure
Dimensions*1

Width (mm)Module (dry)(Aeration block + Element
block)
Weight（kg）
Module (wet)(Maximum weight in case ofsludge clogging)*2

304 stainless steel(316LSS as option)
304SS/ABS resin(316LSS as option)
EPDM rubber/PVC/304SS(316LSS as option)
EPDM rubber
not higher than 40
5-10
not higher than 18,000

Permeate water manifold
Material

Housing
Diffuser

Operating
Range

Connections
*1
*2
*3

Element fixing gaskets
Temperature (degree C)
pH*4 of liquid
MLSS (mg/L)
Trans-membrane pressure(kPa )
Cleaning chemicals feed
pressure (kPa )Scouring Air Flow rate
(NL/min/Module)*6
Manifolds: Flanges*3
Air diffusers : Screws

not higher than 20 (200 mbar)
not higher than 10 (100 mbar)
500-650

1,000-1,300

ANSI 1 1/2 inch
NTP 1 1/2 (one side)

ANSI 2 inch
NTP 1 1/2 (both sides)

The total dimensions excluding the connection tube
The weight assumed in the case of sludge clogging between elements.
The flange dimensions are described in the drawings attached to this manual. UNI (ISO) flange is alsoavailable as option.

11

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*4
*5
*6

Except when the chemical cleaning with the designated chemical agents.
The connecting socket has an internal thread. The use of tapered screw is recommended for screw
connections.
“NL” means air volume as being 0 degree C and 101.325 kPa (1 atm).

Table III-4 and III-5 show the performance of "TMR090 Series" modules.
Table III-4 Permeate water quality
Model name
Permeate
water
quality*1
*1

*2
*3

TMR090-050S

TMR090-100S

TSS (mg/L) *2

Not higher than 3.0

Turbidity (NTU) *3

Not higher than 1.0

This value is a guarantee value of Toray that can be attained when the modules are installed andoperated appropriate under the standard conditions as specified in this Instruction Manual andOperation and Maintenance Guideline during a period specified separately by Toray.
Measuring method of TSS is complied with Standard Method of Examination of Water and Wastewater
20th Edition (1998), Section 2540D, Total Suspended Solids Dried at 103-105 degree C or ISO 11923.
Measuring method of NTU is complied with Standard Method of Examination of Water and Wastewater
20th Edition (1998), Section 2130, Turbidity or ISO 7027.

Table III-5 Flow capacity (Reference value)
Model nameContinuous
Filtration Flow
(m3/d)*4

TMR090-050S

TMR090-100S

Sewage5 - 3510 - 70

Industrial wastewater

5 - 2310 - 46

This value is just a reference value and is not a guarantee value of Toray. Sustainable operating
filtration flow capacity varies among the plant depending on the type of wastewater, total process
design and operating condition. In case of industrial wastewater application, it is strongly recommended
to conduct a pilot test before membrane tank designing.

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IV.

MEMBRANE FILTRATION PROCESS DESIGN FOR “TMR090 SERIES”

The standard filtration pattern time chart, the schematic flow diagram of the membrane
filtration, the layout of “TMR090 Series” modules in the membrane submerged tank, and thepiping procedures are described in this section. These would help you design the membrane
filtration process with “TMR090 Series”.
1.

Standard Filtration Pattern

Two kinds of the filtration patterns are available with "TMR090 Series". Usually intermittent
filtration (filtration with relaxation) is adopted and details are shown below, whereas
sometimes simple continuous filtration can also be applied. In both cases aeration shall bedone continuously while filtrating.
In the case of the intermittent filtration, the filtration is suspended (“relaxed”) for a shortperiod at certain intervals while the scouring air continues, as shown in Fig. IV-1. While thefiltration is suspended, the membrane surface is cleaned up more effectively with thescouring air due to the absence of suction. Although the automatic system control for
periodical start and stop of the filtration is required, the intermittent filtration is recommended
for stable and efficient membrane filtration. The recommended time cycle for the intermittent
filtration is 9-minute filtration and 1-minute relaxation.
Please stop the scouring air when the filtration operation stops except for the following
conditions:
1) Each relaxation period in case of applying intermittent filtration.
2) In case that the plant operation stops for a while, aeration is applicable for mixing or
aeration demand, however, the flow rate should be controlled minimal.
F1: Average flow rate for treatment capacityand membrane area calculation
F2: Filtration flow rate for suction pumpcapacity calculation

Cycle of 10 minutes
F2
F1
Filtration
Filtration: 9 min.
Air diffusion

Relaxation: 1 min.
Continuous

Fig.IV-1 Recommended Time Cycle for Intermittent Filtration

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2.

Flow Diagram of Membrane Filtration Process

Two schematic flow diagrams of the membrane filtration process are shown below. One is forthe gravity filtration with water head difference and the other is with suction pump. Major
necessary peripheral devices for membrane filtration process are described in the latter partof this section.
In any cases, the fine screen with openings of 3.0 mm or under should be installed before themembrane submerged tank, or the modules might be polluted and clogged severely withtrashes brought with the raw water.
It is also recommended to prepare enough capacity of the buffer tank (flow equalization tank)prior to the MBR process to equalize BOD load and filtration flow capacity so as to enablestable operation of the biological treatment and membrane filtration process.
(1) Gravity filtration configuration
The filtration can be performed with using a natural water head differential pressure
generated from a vertical distance between the liquid level of the membrane submerged

L:OPEN
H:CLOSEtank and the level of the permeate water outlet (see Fig. IV-2).

Wastewater

Feed
ChemicalFI

Fine Screen

Membrane

Manifold

Air Outlet

LS
H

Lower Limit alarm

L

Submerged

PIA

Tank

PIA

FIC: Flow Rate Indicator/Controller

FIC

LS : Level Switch
PIA: Pressure Indicator/Alarm

L:CLOSE
H:OPEN
Permeate water outlet

FI : Flow Meter

Membrane Module

Air Diffuser“U-shape”

Fig. IV-2 Schematic Flow Diagram for Gravity Filtration

14

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In order to obtain enough suction pressure for the filtration considering the friction loss ofpipe and valves, the permeate water outlet should be located sufficiently below the liquid
level of the membrane submerged tank (normally 3 m below water level or lower).
It is recommended that the piping from the permeate water manifold to the permeate wateroutlet should directly penetrate the tank wall, as shown in Fig.IV-2.

Also if the permeate

water outlet is located in the open air, it is also recommended to make the pipe just before
the permeate water outlet U-shape to seal the piping with water.
The permeate water flow is controlled with the automatic control valve (the permeate control
valve). When the liquid level of the membrane submerged tank gets to the lower limit, thiscontrol valve fully closes the permeate water line to stop the filtration. When the liquid level
gets to the higher limit, the automatic shutter valve on the raw water feed line closes its line
to stop raw water coming.
In this gravity filtration, the air accumulated in the permeate water line should be discharged oncea day at least; otherwise the effective water head is reduced seriously. The air purge nozzle
should be installed at the highest position of the permeate water line and the automatic shutter
valve (the air purge valve) is recommended to be installed on the line just before the nozzle. (Asshown in Fig.IV-2) Stopping the filtration (fully closing the permeate control valve) and opening
the air purge valve for a few minutes, the air is easily purged.

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(2) Pump suction configuration

L:OPEN
H:CLOSE

Figure Fig. IV-3 illustrates the general configuration for pump suction filtration.

Air outlet

Raw water

FIC

Feed
chemical

L:CLOSE
H:OPEN
Permeate water

VFD or auto valve
Fine screen

FI

LS
H

PIA

Manifold

Lower limit alarm

L
FIC : Flow rate indicator/Controller
LS : Level Switch
PIA : Pressure indicator/AlarmFI : Flow indicator
PIA
Air diffuser

Membrane Module
Fig.IV-3 Schematic Flow Diagram for Pump Suction Operation
The permeate water flow is controlled by a flow meter and a suction pump with an automatic
control valve or by a flow meter and a suction pump with VFD control. In case water level inthe membrane submerged basin gets to the lower limit, filtration has to be stopped. If thewater level reaches the upper limit, the level controller will stop raw water inflow.
In some cases with this pump suction configuration, an equipment may be needed todischarge the air accumulated in the permeate water line. A range of methods can be applied
for this air removal such as vacuum pump, ejector or manual water injection. Please contact
TORAY or refer to the engineering manual for the details.
(3) Necessary devices for membrane filtration process
Major necessary peripheral devices to operate membrane filtration process are explained
below. Some other devices than mentioned below might be required case by case.

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a.

Fine screen
The wastewater should be treated by screen with openings of 3.0 mm or underbefore flowing into the membrane submerged tank, otherwise the modules arepolluted and clogged with foreign substances seriously. It is recommended to use
the mesh type screen. Overflow or waste carryover must be avoided at any time.

b.

Flow control device
A flow rate controller, a flow meter combined with an automatic control valve, or aflow meter combined with VFD controlled suction pump should be installed on thepermeate water line to control the flow rate of permeate water. In the case ofoperating a number of “TMR090 Series” modules simultaneously in one train, it isadvised to install one flow rate controller for one train of the modules.

c.

Differential pressure measuring instrument
For trans-membrane pressure (TMP) determination the differential pressure (in thepermeate line and water level) has to be measured and calculated, either by
installing two pressure sensors and calculating the readings in the PLC or by using a
differential pressure device.
In the former case, one pressure gauge should be installed on the permeate waterline and the other one in the membrane submerged tank, to monitor thetrans-membrane pressure. In case of operating a number of “TMR090 Series”
modules simultaneously in one train, it is advised to install one differential pressure
measuring instrument for one train of the modules.
[Example]
P2
PIA

a mm

b mm

P1

PIA

Fig.IV-4 Differential Pressure Measurement & Calculation

17

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a = 1,000 mm (= 10 kPa, 100 mbar), b = 3,000 mm (= 30 kPa, 300 mbar)

PIA readings;
Filtration (pump ON)

Relaxation (pump OFF)P1 (kPa)

29

30

P2 (kPa)-15-10

In this case, differential pressure (dP) is calculated as follows;dP= (P1Filtration - P1Relaxation) - (P2Filtration - P2Relaxation)= (29) - (30) - [(-15)-(-10)]= 4 kPad.

Air supply unit (such as a blower)
This unit supplies air to the air diffusers of "TMR090 Series" module. The air flowrate supplied to the module should be always within the range of "Scouring Air FlowRate" indicated in Table III-3.

e.

Air flow meter.
An air flow meter is recommended to be installed to check the flow rate of thescouring air supplied to the module. In case of operating a number of “TMR090
Series” modules simultaneously in a train, it is advised to install at least one air flow
meter for each train.

f.

Suction pump
A suction pump is required in the case of pump suction configuration. Accurate flowrate control is needed for the suction pump with VFD control. The use of a volute
pump (centrifugal pump) or volumetric pump (screw pump) with self-priming function
is recommended.

g.

Level sensor
Level sensor is necessary to be installed in the membrane submerged tank tomonitor and control the liquid level of the membrane tank and to calculate the TMP
in PLC.

h.

Siphon breaking piping
In case of pump suction, filtration flow may not be stopped by stopping suction
pump if the discharge point of the permeate water is lower than water level of themembrane submerged basin. This siphon flow has to be avoided and permeate flow
has to be stopped whenever pump stops.

!

CAUTION

Please install the screen with openings of 3.0 mm or under before
the membrane submerged tank. It is recommended to use the meshtype screen. Overflow or waste carryover must be avoided at any
time.

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GIRE-097-2-2

3. Layout of “TMR090 Series” Modules in Membrane Submerged Tank
(1)

Layout of Modules in Membrane Submerged Tank

Fig.IV-5a shows how the liquid circulates in the membrane submerged tank. An upward
flow is generated by supplying the air from the fine bubble air diffuser located at the lower
side of the membrane modules. The flow then goes downward along both sides of theelement block. This circulation flow cleans the membrane surfaces and at the same timemixes sludge liquid. It is very important to arrange the membrane modules with appropriate
distances in order to obtain an effective circulation flow.
Fig.IV-5a and Fig.IV-5b present a top view and a side view of the tank containing three
membrane modules. It is required to keep the dimensions of W1, W2, W3 and L1 as
mentioned below.
Liquid Level

L1
W1

W2

ModuleFig.IV-5a

W1

W2

Top of Element

ModuleModuleMembrane Module Layout in Membrane Submerged Tank (side view)
W3
W1
ModuleW1

W2

W2
ModuleTank Wall

ModuleW3

Fig.IV-5b Membrane Module Layout in Membrane Submerged Tank (top view)

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GIRE-097-2-2

(i)

W1 :

380 to 680 mm(ii) W2 :430 to 730 mm(iii) W3 :W3 should be as short as possible (normally about 400 mm) within the range
allowing piping and maintenance work.

(iv) L1 :L1, the distance between the top of the element and the liquid level of the tank,should be 300 mm or over at any time of the operation.

*

Please contact us in the case of facing difficulties with a layout design, including
installation of the membrane modules in the existing aeration tank. It is recommended to
install the modules with adjustable stands as shown in Fig.IV-6 so as to set modules
horizontally when installing on an unlevel tank floor.

Fig.IV-6 Installation with Stands (side view)(2) Layout of Modules installed with Other Aeration Equipment
In the case that the membrane modules are installed in the tank with other oxygen-supplying
aeration equipment or in the existing tank where there is already other oxygen-supplying
aeration equipment, please take the following precautions in addition to what is mentioned in
the above section.
･ Please keep twice of W3 of the distance between the modules and other oxygen-supplying
equipment in the case shown in Fig.IV-7,

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W3
W1

W2
“ Module”

W1

W2“Module”“ Module”

2×W3

Fig.IV-7

Tank wall

OxygenSupplying
Aeration
Equipment

Membrane Module Layout in Membrane Submerged Tank with otheraeration equipment (top view)

Please keep twice of W1 of the distance between the modules and other aeration equipmentin the case shown in Fig.IV-8,
W3
2×W1

W2
”
“ModuleW1

W2“Module”Tank wall“Module”W3

Oxygen Supplying
Aeration Equipment

Fig.IV-8 Membrane Module Layout in Membrane Submerged Tank with other aerationequipment (top view)

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4.

Piping

The procedures of the pipe arrangement for the air diffusers and the permeate water
manifold are described in this section. The connections of the air diffuser and the permeate
water manifold are shown in the module drawings attached to this manual.
(1) Pipe Arrangement for the air diffusers
The pipe from the air supply device (the blower) is connected to the air diffusers with thescrews (A) as shown in Fig.IV-9-11. It is recommended to install the flange connection (B)above the liquid surface on this line in order to disjoint the piping in the case of lifting themodules.

B

PG

Air flow Meter
Header PipeB

A

Air Diffuser

Fig.IV-9 Example of Piping to Air diffusers for TMR090-050S

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B

Air Flow Meter

PG

Header Pipe
B
B

Header PipeA

Air Diffuser

A

Fig.IV-10

Example of Piping to Air diffusers for TMR090-100S (Installation of One Unit)

B

PG

Air Flow Meter
Header Pipe
B

B

Header PipeA

Air Diffuser
A

Fig.IV-11

Example of Piping to Air Diffusers for TMR090-100S (Installation of Multiple Units)

23

GIRE-097-2-2

Blower(s) and air piping for membrane scouring should be completely separated from thebiological aeration system so that the membrane scouring air flow rate would not be affectedby DO control in oxidation process. Membrane scouring blower(s) must have enoughcapacity to satisfy the scouring air flow rate requirements for all modules. About 10 kPa or
100mbar of the pressure loss with the fine-bubble air diffusers should be considered whenchoosing blowers.
Rotary, turbo or centrifugal blowers can be used for membrane scouring. Oil-free blowers arerecommended in order to avoid the accidental contamination of the scouring air with oil,which could result in damage of membrane diffuser. Depending on the atmosphere, the useof a suction filter to protect the diffuser from dust or sand is recommended. An air filter thatremoves more than 99.5% of 2-micron dust is a suitable example.
It is necessary to install an air flow meter and valve and recommended to install a pressuregauge in the air supply to check the air flow situation and to adjust the air flow rate just in
case.

24

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(2) Piping to Manifold
Fig.IV-12 and Fig.IV-13 give two examples of leading permeated water from the Membrane
Submerged Tank. Fig.IV-12 shows downward piping and Fig.IV-13 shows upward piping.
The downward piping is for the gravity filtration. The upward piping is for the operation withsuction pump located above the Membrane Submerged Tank.
In both upward and downward piping cases, the chemical injection valve and the air
discharge valve should be installed on a branch pipe of the line from the permeate water
manifold to the permeate water valve. The devices necessary for chemical cleaning aredescribed in VIII-3 to VIII-6.
Air Discharge Valvefrom Chemical Feed Line
ChemicalInjection Valve
Permeated Water Valve

to Permeated
Water Outlet

Fig.IV-12 Downward Piping from Membrane Submerged Tank
Air
Discharge
Valve

Chemical Injection Valvefrom Chemical Feed Lineto Suction Pump
Permeated
Water Valve

Fig.IV-13 Upward Piping from Membrane Submerged Tank

25

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V.
1.

INSTALLATION OF “TMR090 SERIES”
Preparatory Procedure(1)

Make sure the transportation plan for “TMR090 Series” including a carry-in route.

(2)

Arrange all necessary equipments for unloading “TMR090 Series” from the truck,such as a forklift.

(3)

Prior to installation, please confirm that all necessary works in the membrane
submerged tank are completed. All waste from the tank, such as concrete clusters,
scrapes and mill ends, should be removed completely. Also, please confirm that
there is no leakage of water or air from the tanks or pipes.

2.

Unloading/lifting Products
Unload "TMR090 Series” with suitable equipment such as forklift.
Please note the followings for unloading "TMR090 Series".
(1)

The element block and the aeration block are separately packed together in
cardboard box and delivered. The element block contains a fixed number ofmembrane elements installed in it.

(2)

Do not hoist the delivered cardboard box which contains element block(s) andaeration block(s). Please use forklift for moving the box on site.

(3)

Do not stand or sit on the top of the box.

(4)

When lifting "TMR090 Series", please set a hook on all hang holes and lift it
keeping it horizontal with chains or slings. Please use special hanger (drawing
attached) in case of limited hanging space.

(5)

Please be careful not to damage element nozzles, air diffusers, permeate
manifolds or other components.

(6)

Please ensure safety anytime when doing these operations.

!

DANGER

When lifting “TMR090 Series”, please attach chains or slings to it
and lift it straight upward calmly to prevent “TMR090 Series” fromshaking. Never allow any person under “TMR090 Series”.

!

DANGER

Please use chains or slings compatible with lifting weight.

!

DANGERBe sure to set down the module where there is no obstacle.
Otherwise, the module may topple down and get damaged.

26

GIRE-097-2-2

!
3.

DANGER

Don't apply a strong force to air diffusers when moving the module.
Otherwise, the air diffusers may get damaged.

Checking Products
Please check the followings soon after carrying in “TMR090 Series”:

4.

(1)

All items are delivered as stated in the shipping ticket.

(2)

No damage is caused in transit.

(3)

The protective covers are fit in the right position.

Storage Products

Please store "TMR090 Series" indoors under lower than 40 degree C of the temperature,keep it horizontal and avoid direct sunlight to prevent the membrane from deterioration.
Throughout the entire process of installation work from transportation to operation startup,
please take adequate measures to protect the elements and other components from damage.
Especially please protect them from sparks caused in welding, fusion cutting or grinding,using fireproof sheets or other protective measures.
If “TMR090 Series” is to be stored outdoors unavoidably during construction period, pleaseminimize the period of outdoor storage, and also comply with the following requirements:(1) Maintain the temperature below 40 degree C.
(2) Prevent from freezing.
(3) Prevent from getting wet and dew condensation.
(4) Prevent from immersed in the water.
(5) Avoid direct sunlight.

!

CAUTION

Never leave "TMR090 Series" for hours where the temperature ishigher than 40 degree C or where exposed to direct sunlight.

!

CAUTION

Protect “TMR090 Series” from freezing.

!

CAUTION

Take adequate measures to protect “TMR090 Series” from sparks
caused in welding, fusion cutting or grinding.

!

CAUTION

Protect the element from damages. Don't put any heavy objects on
the module. Protect it from collision with other object.

27

GIRE-097-2-2

!

CAUTIONBe careful not to damage the rubber parts of air diffusers andelement fixing brackets.

5. Installation Products
Please check the followings before module installation:(1) All the necessary works in the membrane submerged tank has been completed.
(2) Tank and pipes have been cleaned.
(3) Please confirm that there is no leakage of water or air from the tanks or pipes.
(4) Operation checks of major equipments, including pumps, blowers, sensors andcontrol system, have been confirmed by clean water test.
Please check that the element fixing brackets and tubes are properly fit in the module as
described in Section 8, "Replacement of Element Fixing Brackets" in Chapter VIII,.
(1) Installation Module
The air diffusers should be set horizontal in order to achieve uniform scouring aeration.
The maximum allowable levelness error for the air diffusers is 3/1,000 on the top surface of
the aeration block in both lateral and longitudinal directions.
Basically there are two ways of placing module depending on whether guiderail system isapplied or not.
In case that guide rail system is applied for easy lifting up/down, bolt connection of moduleand bottom of the tank is not necessary. During installation, you just have to put the moduleon the tank along with guide rail. In this case, guide rails serve as safety against overturningand positioning means.
Other way is just simply setting the module onto the membrane tank and connecting them byusing anchor bolts.
Please be sure to take adequate measures after installation, to protect the elements andother components from damage, such as covering with fireproof sheets.
(2) Plumbing in Air Diffusers
The connection of the air diffuser has an internal thread. There is one connection in the air
diffuser of TMR090-050S and two connections in the air diffuser of the TMR090-100S.
Please get and use the fit hose nipples and other parts to connect the air diffuser to the air
supply line.
Before starting the filtration operation, please feed clean water to the membrane submerged

28

GIRE-097-2-2

tank to make the modules completely submerged and then supply the air to the air diffusers
to check the air is provided evenly to each air diffuser and the air is diffused evenly withineach module. (Refer to Section 1, "Clean Water Test" of Chapter VI, "Start of Operation.")(3) Plumbing in Permeate Water Manifold
The manifold is shipped from the factory with one blank flange fit to one side. Please connect
the permeate water line to the manifold at the other side. It is requested for the buyer to get
and use the flange fit for the connection of the manifold. As the manifold is designed to allow
fine adjustment of height with the brackets on its both ends, please adjust the brackets to
install manifold horizontally or to raise the permeated water outlet side a little higher than theother side in order to prevent the air from accumulating in the manifold.
Please flush out the permeate water line before connection. Don't apply pressure to thepermeate side of the element, or the element may get damaged.

!

DANGER

When lifting “TMR090 Series”, please attach chains or slings to it
and lift it straight upward calmly to prevent “TMR090 Series” fromshaking. Never allow any person under “TMR090 Series”.

!

DANGERUse chains or slings compatible with lifting weight.

!

DANGER

Never climb the module.
Please set up the foothold when installation.
Use protective equipments to ensure the safety.

!

CAUTION

Don't apply pressure to the permeate side.

29

GIRE-097-2-2

VI.
1.

START OF OPERATION
Clean Water Operation(1) Checks and Arrangements
At first, please make the following inspections and arrangements in this order:a.

Check that the air diffusion pipe and the permeated water pipes are connected
properly.

b.

Check that the membrane submerged tank has been cleaned up completely andthen remove the protective cover from top of the module.

c.

Open the air discharge valve to release air from inside the membrane element
before feeding clean water to the membrane submerged tank.

d.

Feed clean water (tap water or filtered water) to the membrane submerged tank up
to the operating liquid level.

e.

Close the air discharge valve after feeding water.

!

CAUTION

Open the air discharge valve before feeding clean water to themembrane submerged tank. Close the air discharge valve after
feeding water.

!

CAUTION

Don’t use natural ground water for clean water operation, as it may
contain much amount of iron, manganese, calcium, and silica
which may cause the clogging in the membrane.

(2) Clean water operation
After feeding clean water to the membrane submerged tank, please start clean water
operation in accordance with the following procedure:a.

Start the blower to supply air to the air diffusers. Check that the required amount of
air is supplied to the air diffusers and the air is diffused evenly within each module.
*

Foaming may occur in the membrane submerged tank during clean water
operation. This phenomenon is caused by the dissolution of biodegradablehydrophilic components contained in the membrane. Operation can becontinued regardless of the foaming.

b.

In case of using one blower to supply air for two or more modules, check that therequired amount of air is evenly supplied to each module. Otherwise, adjust the
opening of the valve installed on a branch pipe of the air supply line from the air
header pipe to the diffuser, or modify the piping structure (such as the diameter ofthe header pipe) to attain uniform air supply.

30

GIRE-097-2-2

c.

Check the control devices work well during the clean water operation.

d.

Start filtration with clean water. Measure and record the trans-membrane pressure
and water temperature at designed filtration rates (at a normal, maximum andminimum flow rate). Maintain such records.

e.

2.

Stop the filtration and the air supply as soon as the above tests finish.

!

CAUTION

Don't conduct clean water operation for a long time. Clean water
operation tends to cause membrane clogging.

!

CAUTION

Keep the membrane wet once it gets wet with clean water
operation. If those membranes get dried up, the permeability may
be decreased seriously.

Seeding Sludge Injection

The membrane may get clogged seriously if you filter the wastewater without activatedsludge, so don't fail to seed sludge before starting filtration.
Please inject the seeding sludge to the membrane submerged tank with the following steps:(1)

Transport fresh and healthy activated sludge from the other wastewater treatment
plant treating the same kind of wastewater. Activated sludge with higher MLSS
concentration and higher MLVSS/MLSS ratio is preferable. Initial MLSS
concentration of the membrane submerged tank shall be preferably 7,000 mg/L or
higher, at least 3,000 mg/L.

(2)

Supply the seed sludge through the screen to the tank.

(3)

Please start feeding the raw wastewater soon after the sludge injection.

(4)

Do not use seeding agents.

(5)

Do not use silica-based anti-foam agent in case of foaming.

!
3.

CAUTION

Remove foreign matters from the seeding sludge with the meshscreen which opening is 3.0 mm or under before injection.

Actual Filtration Operation

Following the seeding sludge injection, please start the air diffusion, the filtration and the raw
wastewater feed.
Attention needs to be paid to this start-up operation such as:(1)

Start filtration with much lower flux than design value, especially when seeding

31

GIRE-097-2-2

sludge MLSS does not reach 7,000 mg/L, and gradually increase the flux
considering F/M ratio. Initial seeding sludge is not yet acclimataized to the MBR
operation and in such condition filtration with higher flux may lead to membrane
fouling.
(2)

Sludge parameters such as MLSS and sludge filterability should be checked
frequently to assess the actual sludge condition.

(3)

Check the air diffuser cleaning procedure and confirm it works. Details for theprocedure are given in the chapter VIII

(4)

Once the permeate water flow is stabilized, please measure and record thetrans-membrane pressure and the liquid temperature. The details for operation
control are given in the next chapter.

32

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VII.

OPERATION CONTROL

1.

Standard Operating Conditions

Table VII-1 shows standard operating conditions for “TMR090 Series”.
These operating parameters such as MLSS, sludge viscosity, DO (dissolved oxygen
concentration) and pH should be kept in the range of the standard operation conditions given
in Table VII-1 in order to ensure stable operation.
The raw water should be treated with the proper pretreatment facilities before the membrane
modules to remove foreign matters which is harmful to the membrane such as big chunks ofsuspended solid or oil.
Please use an alcohol-based antifoaming agent* if necessary.
* Recommended:

Kurita Water Industries “Kuriless P.F-663”
Schill & Seilacher “Structol SB2032”

Table VII-1 Standard Operating Conditions for “TMR090 Series”
Parameter

Unit

Operating condition

MLSS

mg/L

Sludge viscosity*

mPa⋅s

DO
pH
Liquid Temperature

mg/L
degree C
m3/m2/d (m/d)
L/m2/h (LMH)

7,000-18,000
Not higher than 100 **Not higher than 250 ***1.0 or more
6-8
15 - 400.75 or less31.2 or less
650
1,300

Continuous Average Filtration Flux
Scouring air flow rate

TMR090-050S
TMR090-100S

NL/min/Module* Measured by single cylinder rotary viscometer.
** B type viscometer, e.g. VT-03F by Rion Co., Ltd.
*** C type viscometer, e.g. TVC-5 by Toki Sangyo Co., Ltd.

!

WARNING

Don't use the permeate water for drinking.

!

WARNING

Analyze the quality of the permeate water to ensure that the water
quality meets the intended purpose before actual use.

!

CAUTION

Don't use chemicals, toxic agents, oils or other substances that
can adversely affect activated sludge.

33

GIRE-097-2-2

!

CAUTION

Avoid abrupt changes in pH, temperature, trans-membranepressure or any other conditions even if they are within thestandard operating conditions (Table VII-1).

!

CAUTION

Replace consumable parts regularly after inspection.

!

CAUTION

Protect the modules from freezing.

34

GIRE-097-2-2

2.

Operating Parameters

The performance of “TMR090 Series” varies in accordance with the raw water quality and theoperating conditions. It is recommended to monitor and record the values of operating
parameters in order to achieve the stable operation and the expected performance with
“TMR090 Series”.
The following shows the operating parameters for the operation of “TMR090 Series”:(1)

Scouring Air Flow rate (blower air flow)(2)

Diffusion pressure (blower discharge pressure)(3)

Permeated water flow rate

(4)

Trans-membrane pressure (TMP)(5)

Permeated water quality (BOD, COD, turbidity, T-N, T-P, TSS etc.)(6)

Liquid temperature of membrane submerged tank(7)

Raw water quality (BOD, COD, turbidity, T-N, T-P, etc.)(8)

Excess-sludge discharge rate(9)

DO (dissolved oxygen concentration) of membrane submerged tank(10)

pH of membrane submerged tank

(11)

MLSS

(12)

Sludge viscosity(13)

Sludge volume (SV30 or SV60)(14)

Sludge filterability

35

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3.

Basic Control Philosophy

Listed below is the basic control philosophy for operating “TMR090 Series”. Please note that
this is a basic one and detailed control philosophy for each project shall be examined
carefully on a case-by-case basis.
(1) Suction pump: Run intermittently by timer (9 min on/1 min off), VFD control for flow rate,
stop filtration by low MBR tank level or high TMP. It will never run when no air comes to
MBR tank, and to ensure enough sludge mixing when restarting, pump is allowed to run
after one minute delay from starting MBR air flow. It will stop during air diffuser cleaning.
(2) Membrane scouring blower: 24/7 continuous operation except in the case of long
operation stop by no feed or low membrane submerged tank water level (in that case, 5
min per hour intermittent aeration).
(3) Membrane submerged tank water level: Low -> stop filtration for membrane protection,
High -> stop wastewater feed.
(4) TMP: High (+5kPa from initial) -> Alarm for chemical cleaning, High High (20kPa or
above) -> Alarm, then stop filtration.

36

GIRE-097-2-2

4.

Daily Inspection

For the operating parameters listed in the preceding section, perform inspection periodically,at least once per week, as follows. Please check trends of these data and take necessary
actions before too late.
(1) Trans-membrane pressure
Please check that the trans-membrane pressure is stable. Please carry out chemicalcleaning before the trans-membrane pressure increase by 5 kPa (50 mbar) from its initial
operating level at the same permeated water flow rate. Sudden increase in thetrans-membrane pressure suggests the membrane clogging caused by abnormal diffused air
condition, too high flux, concentration of the sludge in membrane submerged tank or
deteriorating sludge properties. In such an event, check the operating condition andbiological condition and take necessary actions and carry out chemical cleaning of theelements.
(2) Diffused air conditions
Please check that the fixed amount of air within the standard range is supplied from thediffuser by checking air flow-meter and pressure gage of the air supply line. Also, check thatthe air is diffused evenly within one module and also evenly among modules. Deviation in thescouring air flow rate from the standard intensity may cause the membrane clogging in the
weak zone and element damage in the strong zone. So in such a case, stop filtration, andcheck the leakage from the piping, valve situation and the blower condition. If necessary,take appropriate actions, such as adjusting the scouring air flow rate. If extraordinary unevendiffusion still continues, conduct the air diffuser inspection and cleaning procedure describedin Section 2, Chapter VIII.

!

CAUTION

If the scouring air flow rate drops or becomes extremely irregular orif air supply is stopped, then immediately stop filtration to prevent
membrane clogging.

(3) Activated sludge characteristics
The activated sludge of the membrane bioreactor should be self-cohesive and free from odor.
The color of the activated sludge is typically brown, however differs among plants, depending
on wastewater component, organic load and so on. If unexpected change is observed in

37

GIRE-097-2-2

sludge characteristics, check the operating condition, such as BOD load, MLSS
concentration, DO, pH, temperature and/or wastewater component, and take appropriate
actions.
(4) MLSSMLSS concentration in the membrane submerged tank should be normally 7,000 to 18,000
mg/L. If MLSS is too low, please decrease excess sludge discharge rate. If MLSS is too high,please check the return activated sludge flow rate and if it is low, please increase the RAS
rate at proper value. If RAS rate is proper, please increase excess sludge discharge rate.
(5) Sludge viscosity
It is desirable that the sludge viscosity is not higher than 250 mPa・s (Measured by C-type
viscometer). If the sludge viscosity is too high, please check the operating condition andbiological condition, such as F/M ratio, and take necessary actions.
(6) DOAny point in the aeration tank and the membrane submerged tank should be kept at oxic
condition. If DO is less than 1.0 mg/L, take necessary actions such as increasing the air-flowrate of the biological aeration unit, or lower the sludge concentration by increasing excess
sludge discharge rate. In case the blower and air piping for membrane scouring is notseparated from the biological aeration system, control the membrane scouring air flow rate atfixed value without being affected by DO control in oxidation process.
(7) pHThe desirable pH range is 6 to 8. If pH is out of this range and the activated sludge property
is not good, please adjust pH by gradually adding acid or alkali.
(8) Liquid temperature
The desirable liquid temperature is 15 degree C to 40 degree C. If the temperature is out of
this range and the activated sludge property is not good, it is recommendable to installtemperature control device to cool or heat the liquid.
(9) Liquid level
Check the liquid level of the membrane submerged tank is kept in the appropriate range. If
this requirement is not met, check the situation of the control system, particularly the38

GIRE-097-2-2

condition of the level meter, pumps or membranes, and when necessary, take corrective
actions.
(10) Sludge volume (SV30 or SV60)
This is almost same as what is usually measured in the CAS plant, the only difference is that
MBR sludge needs to be diluted by permeate water (5-fold) to be measureable with usual
method. This SV value can be an on-site indicator of sludge property and we recommend
conducting this measurement routinely and checking the trend of the daily value inassociation with other inspection items. In case of abrupt decrease in SV value, check theoperating condition and biological condition, and take necessary actions.

(11)

Sludge filterability

Paper filtration method is simple and reliable method to grasp the filtration property of thesludge. Please see the method described in attached document. We recommend conducting
paper filtration test and measurement of TOC and/or turbidity of filtered water routinely. In
case of abrupt decrease in filterability and/or increase in TOC/turbidity, check the operating
condition and biological condition, and take necessary actions.
(12)

Pretreatment system

In addition to operating parameters for the operation of “TMR090 Series”, please check thestate of the pretreatment system (particularly the fine screen system) regularly and remove
the accumulated trashes whenever necessary.

39

GIRE-097-2-2

VIII.

MAINTENANCE OF “TMR090 SERIES”

1.

Maintenance Items and Maintenance Frequency
To maintain the performance of “TMR090 Series”, perform the following at specified

intervals:(1)

Clean the air diffusers (when extraordinary uneven diffusion is found).

(2)

Chemical cleaning of the element (when the trans-membrane pressure has risenby 5 kPa (50 mbar) or more from its initial operating level at the same permeatedwater flow rate or every 6 months, whichever comes first).

(3)

Replace connection tubes (once in 3 years, or when deteriorated)(4)

Replace element comb gaskets (once in 3 years or when deteriorated, whichevercomes first).

(5)

Replace elements (when the specified treatment flow rate is not gained even after
chemical cleaning or when deteriorated, whichever comes first).

(6)

Replace air diffusers (once in 3 years or when extraordinary uneven diffusion isdetected even after cleaning, whichever comes first).

!

CAUTIONBe sure to use the specified types of the replacement parts.

!

CAUTION

Please contact TORAY for the detailed specifications and the
procurement routes for replacement parts!

CAUTION

Insert the tube securely into the foot of the nozzle when replacing
the tube.

!

CAUTION

Don't apply excess force to the element and manifold nozzles toprevent damage when replacing permeate tubes or elements.,!

CAUTION

Don’t re-use the old permeate tubes once disconnected from thenozzles since the connection tightness of the tubes are reduced.

!

CAUTIONBe careful not to scratch the membrane surface during element
replacement works.

40

GIRE-097-2-2

2.

Air Diffuser Cleaning"TMR090 Series" is equipped with fine-bubble air diffusers, which significantly reduces thedaily cleaning operation of air diffusers compared to the coarse-bubble diffusers. Usually indomestic wastewater treating cases, no operation change is required. However, in theunlikely event of diffuser clogging, uneven air diffusion may cause membrane clogging andelements damage in the worst case.
To prevent possible event of diffuser clogging, please check the value of air flow-meter andpressure gage of the membrane air supply line regularly and check that the fixed amount of
air within the standard range is supplied. Also, check that the air is diffused evenly within one
module and also evenly among modules.
If extraordinary value of the air-flow rate or uneven diffusion is inspected, please clean the air
diffusers according to the following procedure:
Air diffuser cleaning procedure(1) Repeat the operation of turning on and off the blower several times or increasing anddecreasing the blower air flow several times. This operation expands and contracts therubber part of air diffusers and thus removes the sludge on their surface. From a preventive
maintenance point of view, installation of automatic diffuser cleaning system is one way. If
the air flow rate or uneven diffusion is not resolved with this operation, please try the next
action described below.
(2) Lift the module and take it out of the tank to the safety and steady place. Gently scrub the
diffusers with a brush or use pressured water to remove the contamination from their surface.
Generally, the diffusers can be cleaned with a tap water hose. If lime or other substance istightly stuck to the diffusers, use a high-pressure cleaner to remove them. The cleaning time
is five to ten seconds per air diffuser, though it depends on the contamination situation or thewater pressure.
(3) If the problem with the diffuser is not resolved with above procedure, please contact
Toray.

!

CAUTIONBe careful not to damage the rubber parts of air diffusers.

41

GIRE-097-2-2

3. Chemical Cleaning of Element
Chemical cleaning of element should be conducted before the trans-membrane pressure
rises to excess. Such a pressure increase can be caused when contaminants clog the poresof the membrane surface. The timing of chemical cleaning is determined as follows:(1)

When the trans-membrane pressure rises by 5 kPa (50 mbar) from its initial
operating level at the same permeated water flow rate or every 6 months,
whichever comes first. For example, if an MBR was operated at 7 kPa (70 mbar)
TMP in its initial period, then 12 kPa (120 mbar) is the TMP trigger for chemicalcleaning.

(2)

The earlier chemical cleaning is much effective to recover and keep thepermeability of the membrane. From a preventive maintenance point of view,please conduct chemical cleaning at the earlier stage of TMP increase; otherwise
the trans-membrane pressure will rise rapidly and become difficult to recover thepermeability by normal chemical cleaning procedure.

(3)

In the case that the trans-membrane pressure rises by 5 kPa (50 mbar) within 6months, it is recommended to observe how many months it takes for thetrans-membrane pressure to rise by 5 kPa (50 mbar) and conduct chemicalcleaning periodically within safety interval. This measure is a sure way to conduct
effective chemical cleaning and leads to extension of membrane life time.

(4)

When the permeability of the membrane is not recovered by only once chemicalcleaning, there is a chance to recover permeability by carrying it out repeatedly.

4.

Chemical Agents Used for Chemical Cleaning

It is quite important to select chemicals for the chemical cleaning in accordance with the typeof adherent contaminant. Cleaning under inappropriate cleaning conditions or using thewrong chemicals may cause poorer filtration performance or damage the membrane. Please
select chemicals suitable for each contaminant. Table III-1 shows suitable chemicals andstandard cleaning conditions.
Table III-1 Cleaning Chemicals and Standard Cleaning Conditions by ContaminantContaminantChemical

Organic matter

Sodiumhypochlorite

Inorganic matter(either of the two
chemicals)

Solution concentration

Amount used

Hold time(Effective chlorine concentration)(pH is about 12)

3 L/element

1 to 3 hours

Oxalic acid*

0.5-1.0wt%

3 L/element

1 to 3 hours

Citric acid

1-3wt%

3 L/element

1 to 3 hours

2,000-6,000 mg/L

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GIRE-097-2-2

* Oxalic acid should not be applied when wastewater contains calcium, since calcium oxalate may form on
the membrane surface which can choke membrane pores.

5. Handling of Chemical AgentsThe chemical agents used for chemical cleaning are harmful to the health when in contact
with the skin. When you handle chemicals, wear protective goggles, protective gloves andother protectors. Make sure to check the details of its material safety data sheet (MSDS) andthe instructions given below beforehand. If the chemicals get in contact with your skin, follow
the MSDS and take adequate actions for each chemical.
(1) Sodium hypochlorite solution / NaClO(A) Handling precautions(a) Ventilate well. Avoid heat sources and sparks. Also avoid contact with acids.
(b) Handle the chemical container with great care. Avoid toppling, bumping or
dragging it.
(c) Take care not to cause leak, spillover or spattering. Don't cause dust or vapor.
(d) Firmly seal the container after use.
(e) Thoroughly wash your hands and face and rinse out your mouth after usingchemicals.
(f)Don't eat or drink anything in the working place except in a designated place.

(g) Don't bring gloves or other contaminated protectors into the rest area.
(h) Forbid unauthorized entry to the place where chemicals are handled.
(i)

Wear appropriate protectors to avoid inhalation, eye or skin contact, and directcontact with your clothes.

(j)Provide local ventilation in the case of handling chemicals outdoors.

(B) Storage precautions(a) Store the container in a dark, cold place. Avoid direct sunlight. Firmly seal toprevent direct contact with air.
(b) Use corrosion-resistant containers for storage.
(2) Oxalic acid / (COOH)2(A) Handling precautions(a) Keep away from strong acids and bases.
(b) Handle the chemical container with great care. Avoid toppling, bumping or

43

GIRE-097-2-2

dragging it.
(c) Take care not to cause leak, spillover or spattering. Don't cause dust or vapor.
(d) Firmly seal the container after use.
(e) Thoroughly wash your hands and face and rinse out your mouth after usingchemicals.
(f)Don't eat or drink anything in the working place except in a designated place.

(g) Don't bring gloves or other contaminated protectors into the rest area.
(h) Forbid unauthorized entry to the place where chemicals are handled.
(i)

Wear appropriate protectors to avoid inhalation, eye or skin contact, and directcontact with your clothes.

(j)Provide local ventilation in the case of handling chemicals outdoors.

(B) Storage precautions(a) Store the container in a dark, cold place. Avoid direct sunlight. Firmly seal toprevent direct contact with air.
(b) Use corrosion-resistant containers for storage.
(3) Citric acid / HOOCCH2C(OH)(COOH)CH2COOH(A) Handling precautions(a) Keep away from strong acids and bases.
(b) Handle the chemical container with great care. Avoid toppling, bumping or
dragging it.
(c) Take care not to cause leak, spillover or spattering. Don't cause dust or vapor.
(d) Firmly seal the container after use.
(e) Thoroughly wash your hands and face and rinse out your mouth after usingchemicals.
(f)Don't eat or drink anything in the working place except in a designated place.

(g) Don't bring gloves or other contaminated protectors into the rest area.
(h) Forbid unauthorized entry to the place where chemicals are handled.
(i)

Wear appropriate protectors to avoid inhalation, eye or skin contact, and directcontact with your clothes.

(j)Provide local ventilation in the case of handling chemicals outdoors.

(B) Storage precautions(a) Store the container in a dark, cold place. Avoid direct sunlight. Firmly seal to44

GIRE-097-2-2

prevent direct contact with air.
(b) Use corrosion-resistant containers for storage.

!

WARNING

The chemical agents used for chemical cleaning are harmful to thehealth. When handling chemicals, wear protective goggles,
protective gloves and other protectors. Make sure to check thedetails of its material safety data sheet (MSDS) beforehand.

!

WARNINGIf chemicals should stick to your skin or clothes, immediately wash
it away with a large amount of running water.

!

WARNINGIf chemicals should enter an eye, immediately wash it away with alarge amount of running water and see the doctor.

!

WARNINGStore chemicals in a dark, cold place free from direct sunlight.

!

WARNING

Use the chemicals storage tanks made of the material suitable foreach chemical to prevent corrosion.

!

WARNING

Don't mix sodium hypochlorite with acids, including oxalic acid or
citric acid; otherwise toxic chlorine gas is generated.

!

CAUTION

Don't mix sodium hypochlorite with heavy metals.

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6.

Chemical Cleaning Procedure(1) Element Chemical Cleaning Procedure
Firstly please slowly inject the chemical via the permeated water nozzle into the elements
until it percolates through the membranes. Do not apply too high pressure (>10 kPa or 100mbar) when injecting the chemical. Some injecting methods are shown below.
a.

Chemical Cleaning with the chemical tank located at the bottom (Fig.VIII-1)(i)

Confirm that the chemical injection valve is closed and that the chemical feedpump is stopped.

(ii)

Provide the chemical tank with specified amounts of chemical.

(iii)

Stop filtration, stop aeration and close the filtrate valve.

(iv)

Start the chemical feed pump and check that the chemical circulates.

(v)

Slowly open the chemical injection valve to start injecting the chemical.

(vi)

After injecting the specified amount of chemicals to the elements, stop thechemical feed pump.

(vii)

Hold the equipments for 1 to 3 hours.

(viii)

Close the chemical valve, open the filtrate valve, and start aeration. Then,
restart filtration operation.

*

The chemical may remain in the permeated water in an early stage offiltration (for a period of 2 or more intermittent cycles). Send back thepermeated water to the raw water tank, or dispose of it in accordance withapplicable legal standards for waste disposal. Before restarting the normal
operation, check the pH and/or Cl concentration of the permeated water.
Open
Low water level ofMembrane
Submerged Tank

ChemicalInjection Valve

1,000 mm (=10 kPa) or less

Permeatedwater valve

ModuleChemical tank

ChemicalFeed Pump

Fig.VIII-1 Chemical Cleaning with Chemical Tank Located at Bottom

46

GIRE-097-2-2

b.

Chemical cleaning with the chemical tank located above the membrane submergedtank (Fig.VIII-2)(i)

Confirm that the chemical injection valve is closed.

(ii)

Provide the chemical tank with specified amounts of the chemical.

(iii)

Stop filtration, stop aeration, and close the filtrate valve.

(iv)

Slowly open the chemical injection valve to inject chemicals.

(v)

After injecting the chemical, hold the equipment for 1 to 3 hours.

(vi)

Close the chemical valve, open the filtrate valve, and start aeration. Then,
restart filtration operation.

*

The chemical may remain in the permeated water in an early stage offiltration (for a period of 2 or more intermittent cycles). Send back thepermeated water to the raw water tank, or dispose of it in accordance withapplicable legal standards for waste disposal. Before restarting the normal
operation, check the pH and/or Cl concentration of the permeated water.
Chemical tank

Low water level ofMembrane
Submerged Tank

Chemicalinjection valve

1,000 mm (=10 kPa) or less

Manifold
Permeatedwater valve

ModuleFig.VIII-2 Chemical Cleaning with Chemical Tank Locatedabove Membrane Submerged Tankc.

Chemical cleaning with the chemical feed pump and relief valve (Fig.VIII-3)(i)

Confirm that the chemical feed pump is stopped and the top of relief piping islocated at 1 m or lower height from membrane submerged tank water level.

(ii)

Provide the chemical tank with specified amounts of chemical.

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GIRE-097-2-2

(iii)

Stop filtration, stop aeration and close the permeated water valve.

(iv)

Surely open the relief valve.

(v)

Start the chemical feed pump.

(vi)

Confirm the smooth return of the chemical to Chemical tank when it spouts
from the outlet of relief piping. If the spouting is too much, adjust the feeding
rate of chemical.

(vii)

After injecting the specified amount of chemicals to the elements, stop thechemical feed pump.

(viii)

Hold the equipments for 1 to 3 hours.

(ix)

Close the relief valve, open the permeated water valve, and start aeration.
Then, restart filtration operation.

*

The chemical may remain in the permeated water in an early stage offiltration (for a period of 2 or more intermittent cycles). Send back thepermeated water to the raw water tank, or dispose of it in accordance withapplicable legal standards for waste disposal. Before restarting the normal
operation, check the pH and/or Cl concentration of the permeated water.
Low water level ofMembrane
Submerged Tank

Relief Piping
1,000 mm (=10 kPa) or lessRelief Valve

Permeatedwater valve

ModuleChemical tank

ChemicalFeed Pump

Fig.VIII-3 Chemical Cleaning with the Chemical Feed Pump and Relief Valve
If chemical is injected without opening relief valve, the internalpressure of the elements will increase and the elements will get! WARNING damaged. Be sure to open the relief valve before injecting
chemical.

!

WARNING

Chemical may spout from relief piping. Adjust the chemical feeding
rate not to let it spout out of the pioing and keep away from relief
piping when the chemical feed pump is running. Use the safety
protectors such as goggles and gloves.

48

GIRE-097-2-2

(2) Precautions for Element Chemical Cleaninga.

Keep the injecting pressure below 10 kPa (100 mbar). Avoid forcibly applying
pressure directly with the pump or by any other means. A higher pressure will
damage membrane elements and modules. Please note that injecting pressure may
rise up after injecting half of the chemical.

b.

Submerge the module completely in the tank and inject chemical. Please maintainthe top of the module at least 300 mm below the liquid surface for the safety reason.

c.

Though higher temperature gives more effective cleaning, please maintain thetemperature below 40 degree C. Conversely, lower temperature causes poorer
cleaning effects and hampers the recovery of the membrane permeability. Please
try to maintain the temperature of the liquid as high as possible within the range
below 40 degree C.

d.

After chemical cleaning, a small amount of chemical remains inside the elements
and the permeate water line. When resuming the filtration operation, please sendback the permeated water to the raw water tank until the permeated water is freefrom effects of the chemical (for a period of at least 2 intermittent cycles), or disposeof it in accordance with applicable legal standards for waste disposal.

e.

If sodium hypochlorite cleaning is immediately followed by acid cleaning or inreverse order, do make sure that the both chemicals are never mixed at any tank orpipe (especially injection line). Otherwise such mixture generates toxic chlorine gas.

f.

If permeate is used as cleaning solution make up water, residual calcium in themake up water may precipitate when NaOCl is mixed into the water. If a highcalcium concentration is expected in the make up water, confirm the possibility of
precipitation by a bench-scale NaOCl addition test and if whitish precipitation of
calcium is found, use tap water for the make up water.

!

WARNING

If an abnormality is found in the equipment during chemicalcleaning, immediately stop the operation.

!

WARNING

Never mix sodium hypochlorite with oxalic acid or citric acid. Suchmixture generates toxic chlorine gas.

WARNINGIf chemical is injected forcibly directly with the chemical feed pumpor by any other means, the internal pressure of the elements will
increase and the elements will get damaged. Be sure to injectchemical with the pressure of lower than 10 kPa (100 mbar).

!

49

GIRE-097-2-2

7.

!

WARNING

Before starting injecting chemical to elements, confirm that theliquid surface is more than 300 mm higher than the top of themodule.

!

CAUTION

Stop the aeration during chemical cleaning, or the membrane may
get damaged.

Lifting Procedure

Please take the following steps to lift “TMR090 Series” modules for maintenance,in the case that the modules are installed on the bottom of the tank with using anchors.
(1)

Discharge completely activated sludge liquid from the tank.

(2)

Remove the anchors.

(3)

Disjoint the connection of the manifold and the air diffuser and lift the modules.

Please contact us beforehand if the modules are installed on the bottom of the membrane
submerged tank in the way other than using anchors.

!

DANGER

When lifting “TMR090 Series”, please attach chains or slings to it
and lift it straight upward calmly to prevent “TMR090 Series” fromshaking. Never allow any person under “TMR090 Series”.

!

DANGERUse chains or slings compatible with lifting weight.

!

CAUTION

Clean the air diffusers when lifting the modules and doing
maintenance. If the sludge accumulated on the surface of air
diffusers are dried up, the rubber parts of air diffusers may getdamaged.

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GIRE-097-2-2

8.

Replacement of Element Fixing Gaskets

Please at first lift "TMR090 Series" modules out of the tank according to the lifting proceduredescribed above and take the following steps to replace the element fixing comb gaskets(EPDM rubber). The bolt size is M10.

(1) Remove the three element fixing brackets
from the element block (one center bracket andtwo side brackets).

(2) Replace the comb gaskets from each bracket.
The gaskets consist of several parts according to
the type of module. Detailed information will be
provided separately.

(3) Install element fixing brackets on theelement block.
After installation, check that comb gaskets aretouching elements flat.

!

CAUTION

Take care not to damage the gaskets (EPDM rubber) of theelement fixing bracket.

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GIRE-097-2-2

9. Element Replacement
Please at first lift "TMR090 Series" module out of the tank according to the lifting proceduredescribed in the former section and replace elements.
(1)

Pull the permeate tubes, which are to be

replaced, out from element nozzles and manifold
nozzles.
* Pull out tubes straight up.
(2)

Remove three element fixing brackets fromthe element block according to the element fixing
bracket replacement procedure above.
(3) Pull up elements vertically one by one. Using theelement pullout tool (option tool) is recommended.

(4) Insert new elements into the element block along
the guides. Be careful not to damage the membranesurface.
(5) Fit the three element fixing brackets
Tube

to the element block according to the element fixing
Permeated water
nozzlebracket replacement procedure described above.
(6)

Element
Permeated water
manifold

Fit tubes straight down to element nozzles andmanifold nozzles.
* Insert tubes deeply into the nozzles. Confirm that
all manifold nozzles are connected to element
nozzles with tubes.

52

GIRE-097-2-2

!

CAUTION!

CAUTIONBe careful not to damage the comb gaskets (EPDM rubber) of theelement fixing bracket.
Be careful not to damage the element during the element
replacement works. Particularly, be careful not to scratch themembrane surface.

Optional extras:
The tool to pull up an element

53

GIRE-097-2-2

10. Air Diffuser Replacement
At first, please lift the module out of the tank according to the lifting procedure described in
the former section. Then, take the following steps to replace the air diffuser. Bolt size is M10.
TMR090-050S has one header pipe and TMR090-100S has two header pipes.
TMR090-100S has six air diffuser pipes with two different lengths.
The following figures show the case of TMR090-050S.

(1) Disjoint the header pipe from the

Element block

aeration block.
(2) Unscrew the air diffuser pipes from theheader pipe.

header pipe(3) Seal the nipples of new air diffusers

pipe support

with Teflon seal tape.

Stainless Nipple

header pipe

(4) Joint the new air diffusers to the header
pipes. Please use the pipe wrench totighten the joint (Don’t fasten tight by
grabbing the rubber part of the diffuser).
Please make sure that the surface of therubber part having no holes (slits) must

TMR090-100S Aeration block (top view)

face upward or downward (The surface on
which stainless clamps are fixed must face
upward or downward).
In case of TMR090-100S, since twodifferent lengths of the rubber diffusers areheader pipe

pipe support

to be handled, please take enough care toheader pipe

joint air diffusers considering the position of

54

GIRE-097-2-2

the pipe support and the length of the
diffuser pipes.

No Slit Area shall be located at
top and bottom whenconnecting to the header pipe.

Element block(5) Fit the header pipes to the aeration
block while fixing air diffusers on the pipe
supports.

header pipe
pipe support!

CAUTIONBe careful not to damage the rubber parts of air diffusers.

55

GIRE-097-2-2

11. Storage Products after Use
Please take the following steps to preserve the used “TMR090 Series” modules for a longtime until future re-operation.
(1) Drain the sludge in the membrane submerged tank.
(2) Clean the modules with clear water and wash out the remaining sludge on the modulesurface as well as tank wall using hose. Never apply high pressure washing machine.
(3) Fill the clear water into the tank to let the modules completely submerged and maintainits water level until the next start up.
(4) Periodical dosing of sodium hypochlorite helps inhibit the growth of algae/microorganism
during the storage, however hypo concentration in the tank has to be low (<50 ppm) toprevent from possible damage to the module (stainless steel) by long-time exposure.
(5) In case aeration of the tank is required, its duration shall be short enough (<5 minutes
per hour) to avoid putting stress to membrane elements by “aeration without filtration”.
(6) Before re-commissioning of the modules, it is strongly recommended to conduct
chemical cleaning to the modules for the sake of removing biofilm grown on themembrane surface and piping.
In case storage period is not long (within 24 hours), periodical sprinkling of water to modules
especially membrane surface and putting non-transparent sheet onto the modules forprotection against direct sunlight and wind are effective for creating wet condition of
membrane.

!

CAUTION

Keep the membrane wet once it gets wet with operation. If that
membrane gets dried up, its permeability may be decreased
seriously.

56

GIRE-097-2-2

12. Disposing Procedure
When disposing of the membrane after use, please follow below general procedure.
(1) Clean up the membrane module with water. After that it is better to dry up the module foryour easy handling.
(2) Dispose of the module or each constituent following local regulation for waste disposal(landfill, incineration...). When required by regulation, disassemble the module andsegregate its constituent accordingly (e.g. combustible/incombustible).
(3) Regarding membrane, do not burn it without appropriate facilities since harmful
Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) gas will be generated during incineration. If it needs to beincinerated, please apply a service of a qualified waste disposing company.

!

WARNING

Don't burn the membranes without appropriate facilities sinceharmful Hydrogen fluoride (HF) gas is generated at burning.
When dispose membranes, please apply a service of a qualified
waste disposing company.

57

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IX.

REPLACEMENT PARTS LIST

Please contact us for the details of the specifications,
Name
Permeate Tube
Element
fixingcomb
gasket

TMR090050S
TMR090100S

MiddleSide
MiddleSide

ElementAir
diffuser

Length 762mm

50S,100S

Length 682mm

100S

Frequency
Type No.
EBL-TUBE-050
Every 3 years or when
EBL-TUBE-100
deterioration detected,(50 sets/100 sets)
whichever comes first
Every 3 years or when GASKET090-050M
deterioration detected, GASKET090-050S
whichever comes first GASKET090-100M
When the specified
filtration flux is notgained even after
chemical cleaning or
when deteriorated

GASKET090-100S

TSP-50100

When the rubber is DIFUSSER090-100S
deteriorated or the
DIFUSSER090-100S
aeration holes isplugged severely

58

GIRE-097-2-2

X.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Most of troubles in the operation of “TMR090 Series” are related to abnormal membranescouring aeration, too late chemical cleaning, lack of maintenance of the pretreatment
system. The following table shows such troubles and countermeasures against them:
Table IX-1 Troubleshooting
Problem
1

2

3

４

*1:
*2:

The air diffusion rate is below
the standard level.
The air diffusion is uneven in
the module or between
modules.

The permeated water flow rate
has decreased. Or thetrans-membrane pressure has
increased.

The concentration ofsuspended solids in thepermeate water has increased.

Cause

ActionThe blower is broken

Check the blower.

The air diffusers are
clogged.
The air diffusers are
clogged.
Uneven valve opening of
the air supply line to each
module.
The bottom of the element
block is stuck with trash.

Clean the air diffusers.

Membrane clogging.

Clean the air diffusers..
Adjust the vale opening rate.
Check the pretreatment system.
Inspect the module.
Correct operation and maintenance worksof the pretreatment system.
Carry out chemical cleaning.

Sludge accumulated on themembrane surface
because of uneven air
diffusion.

Inspect the blower and clean the air
diffusers to improve air diffusion.

Abnormal properties ofsludge have worsened its
filterability.

Improve sludge properties.
・ Adjust the excess sludge dischargerate.
・ Prevent entry of abnormalcomponents, such as oils.
・ Adjust the BOD load.
・ Adjust the raw water quality (addnitrogen, phosphorous, etc.)
Seal the element and manifold nozzle*1.

An element or tube has
fractured.
A leakage has occurred in
the permeated water
piping.
Germs are generated on
the membrane or thepermeate line.

Carry out chemical cleaning.

Inspect the faulty part*2 and correct thefault.
To clean the permeated water piping,
inject into it a sodium hypochlorite solution
with an effective chlorine concentration of
100 to 200 mg/L.

Even if a cause is found in the tube, there still is the possibility of contamination inside the element. Thus,
seal the element and manifold nozzle.
To check the piping joints and welds for leakage with a pressure being applied, be careful not to applypressure to the membrane modules.

59

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XI.

APPENDIX

Following information is provided in the separate-attached document:(1) Assembly of Modules.
(2) Assembly of Brackets.
(3) Assembly of Guide Rail System.
(4) Assembly of Hangers.
(5) Assembly of Element-pick-up tool.
(6) Procedure of Paper filter test.

This Instruction Manual does not intend to guarantee the results of application of theinformation provided herein or the safety and the compatibility of this product.
Before using this product, the user is asked to check for its safety and compatibility with theintended purpose.
The content of this Instruction Manual is subject to revision from time to time.
Unauthorized use or reproduction of this manual is forbidden.

60

GIRE-097-2-2December 13th, 2011
The paper filtration test measurement procedure
1. Make a filter paper folded (Fig 1).Use filter paper equivalent to No.5C which has adiameter of 185mm (See below tables for reference.)

Fig 1. Filter paper folded
2. Set the filter paper onto a funnel.
3. Prepare 50mL of activated sludge in a measuring cylinder.
4. Pour 50mL of the sludge into the filter paper, and start measuring filtration time.
5. After 5 minutes, check the filtration volume.
<Criteria>
More than 10 mL:

Good filterability

5~10 mL:

SubtleLess than 5 mL:

Bad filterability

6. Additionally it is advisable to check the turbidity and/or TOC (Total Organic Carbon) of
the filtrated water which can be an indicator of membrane foulant such as so-called EPC.
Measure it routinely and check its trend.
Standards of filter paper
Used by TORAYJIS P 3801

ASTM E832-81

No.5C

5C

ClassG

Typical specifications of the filter paper
No.5C
2

Mass (g/m )118

Thickness (mm)0.22

Permeated particle size (μm)

1Catching efficiency (0.3 μmDOP%)

93

Ash (%)

0.01