What is Tubular Microfiltration?

Let's start with the definition of Microfiltration....

Microfiltration (MF) is a low pressure (0.7 – 7 bar, 10-100 psig) separation process for separation of larger size solutes from aqueous solutions by means of a semi-permeable membrane. This process is carried out by having a process solution flow along a membrane surface under pressure. Retained solutes (such as particulate matter) leave with the flowing process stream and do not accumulate on the membrane surface.  The image below shows fluid passing through the FB (Fluid Barrier) with the filtrate (product) on the other side of the barrier and the particles remaining on the opposite end of the barrier.

As you can see, eventually the filtration surface is plugged with particulate matter and the performance of the filter decreases rapidly.  In Cross-flow filtration, the fluid flow is tangential to the filtration surface.  This design provides turbulence at the membrane surface which prevents build-up of particulates and continuously flushes concentrate.

Rather than a sheet of microfiltration membrane, the membrane is made in a tube design to fit into a module.  The membrane is on the inside of the tube with a HDPE support tube.