Ultrafiltration
Membrane filtration, removing particles, bacteria, and organics with self-cleaning efficiency.
Reliable filtration for offshore seawater treatment
Seawater contains suspended solids, microorganisms, organic matter and other particles that can interfere with downstream treatment processes and seawater injection systems. If these contaminants are not effectively removed, they can contribute to membrane fouling, equipment blockage, reduced process efficiency and increased maintenance requirements. Ultrafiltration is used as a high-performance filtration step to produce consistently clean seawater before downstream treatment. It provides a reliable barrier against suspended particles and microorganisms and is particularly important for protecting sensitive equipment such as Sulphate Removal Units and Membrane Deaeration systems.
How It Works
Ultrafiltration uses porous hollow fiber membranes with very small pore sizes to physically separate suspended solids, microorganisms and larger organic material from seawater. Seawater is passed through the membrane under controlled pressure. Water and dissolved salts pass through the membrane, while larger particles and contaminants are retained. The membranes are periodically backwashed and cleaned to maintain filtration performance and control fouling. Vulkan Engineering designs Ultrafiltration systems as part of an integrated seawater treatment package, considering seawater quality, required flow capacity, downstream membrane protection, cleaning philosophy, chemical consumption and long-term operating performance.
Key Benefits
- Removes particles, bacteria & organics
- Reduces operator intervention
- Reduces operating costs
- Protects downstream SRU & MDA membranes
- Improves system reliability
- Certified pressure-vessel housing