Pfi debuts titanium membrane wastewater treatment

Queensland manufacturer Products For Industry (PFi) is introducing what is believed to be a world-first pure titanium cross flow membrane solution, which has uptime, environmental, and yield benefits compared to traditional wastewater treatment methods.

After more than 10 years of development, the product is now entering service in Australia with a leading beverages company, which will use the new technology to separate solids from liquid streams in various stages of the waste stream process.

PFi managing director Gavin Dunwoodie said: “This solution is game-changing for the food and beverage industry, particularly beverages and spirits, because titanium allows for a lower footprint, and longer times between Clean In Place (CIP), thereby reducing downtime.

“…With traditional membranes made of ceramic or plastic, back-pulsing and cleaning often creates problems, so the overall lifetime of the equipment is reduced.”

PFi, usually focused on machine automation products and manufacturing systems, developed the titanium solution from concept through to production.

Dunwoodie said: “This forward-thinking beverages company wanted an advanced solution that would continue to increase their throughput, while lowering their environmental footprint.

“…We conducted extensive pilot tests at a wastewater treatment plant in New Zealand three years ago, where we found the titanium solution allowed very high flow and flux rates, easy and fast CIP, and no fouling or long-term issues with fats, oils, and greases (FOG).

“It also showed us that running costs and energy use would be reduced over the system’s lifetime, and the titanium membrane can be 100 percent recycled at the end of its use.”

The system utilises Rockwell Automation’s CompactLogix Control System.

Rockwell Automation regional director, South Pacific, Anthony Wong said: “We are delighted to be able to provide automation technology solutions, and ongoing support for PFi’s latest Australian innovation.”

Dunwoodie sees great potential for his solution globally, and is looking to scale up operations, after successful pilots, testing, and now in service operation.

Picture: PFi’s new Australian-made titanium cross flow membrane wastewater solution