Mikrofiltratsioon

Mikrofiltratsioon, also known as microfiltration, is a membrane filtration process used to remove particles, bacteria, and suspended solids from liquids. It operates at a relatively low pressure, typically between 0.1 and 2 bar, and utilizes membranes with pore sizes ranging from approximately 0.1 to 10 micrometers. This technique is widely applied in water treatment, beverage production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and wastewater management.

The primary function of mikrofiltráció is to improve water clarity and quality by eliminating turbidity and pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria and protozoa. It is often employed as a pretreatment step before ultrafiltration or other advanced filtration methods, enhancing overall system efficiency and protection of downstream equipment.

Mikrofiltráció membranes are typically composed of materials such as polymeric substances like polyethersulfone, polypropylene, or polysulfone. The process can be performed using dead-end or cross-flow (tangential) configurations. In the dead-end mode, all feed water passes through the membrane, leading to rapid accumulation of retained particles and requiring periodic cleaning or backwashing. Cross-flow filtration minimizes membrane fouling by allowing a portion of the feed to flow tangentially across the membrane surface, helping to sweep away accumulated particulates.

Maintenance of mikrofiltráció systems involves regular cleaning procedures to prevent fouling and ensure consistent performance. Advances in membrane technology have increased the durability, permeability, and selectivity of mikrofiltráció systems, making them a reliable option for various industrial and municipal applications.

Overall, mikrofiltráció is a vital, efficient, and versatile filtration method, crucial for producing high-quality water and liquid products across numerous fields.