Moving Bed Biofilm Reactors (MBBR)

We build wastewater systems, but we also help with designs, project management and can add in continued support too.
Moving bed biofilm reactor installation with a tall circular tank, overhead pipework and blower equipment.
High Treatment Efficiency
Compact Design
Robust and Resilient
Low Energy Consumption
Simple Operation and Maintenance
Scalability
Versatility in Applications
Reduced Sludge Production
Rapid Startup
Enhanced System Longevity

Why Choose bioprocessH2O for MBBRs?

Our systems are durable, compact, and require minimal maintenance. They are also custom-built to meet the specific needs of each client.



bioprocessH2O's MBBR systems use unique biofilm media carriers that provide a protected surface area for the acclimation of bacteria. The bacteria breaks down varying elements of the wastewater, leading to a more effective filtration process. If you are familiar with our MBR systems, the carriers are used instead of the activated sludge process. Due to this and the aeration process these systems use less energy than Membrane Bioreactors, as well. The microorganisms are then sloughed off of the media and are discharged with the treated water.

Aerial view of a wastewater treatment facility with two circular MBBR tanks beside a treatment building.
Crane lifting a bulk bag above an MBBR tank while workers use an elevated platform.

Additional Features

  • High treatment efficiency: Our MBBRs can achieve high levels of BOD, COD, nitrogen, and phosphorus removal, even at high loading rates.
  • Compact footprint: Our MBBRs are more compact than other biological wastewater treatment systems, such as activated sludge systems.
  • Low energy consumption: Our MBBRs require less energy than other biological wastewater treatment systems.
  • Easy operation and maintenance: Our MBBRs are relatively easy to operate and maintain.
  • Custom-built: Our MBBR systems are guaranteed to meet your specifications.
  • Next generation media carriers: We use and supply unique biofilm media carriers for the most effective filtration and lifespan.

Key Components

  • Biofilm Carriers: Small plastic media that provide surface area for microbial growth.
  • Aeration System: Supplies oxygen needed for breaking down pollutants.
  • Mixing Mechanism: Keeps the carriers evenly distributed in the tank.
  • Tank: Proper tank sizing is crucial to achieve desired treatment goals. It ensures sufficient hydraulic retention time (HRT), allowing microorganisms enough contact time with wastewater to effectively break down pollutants.

‍

Two tall MBBR tanks with connecting access platforms, ladders and ground-level piping.
Telehandler lifting a bulk bag beside an MBBR tank and a worker on the ground.

Benefits of a MBBR

MBBR systems offer high efficiency in removing pollutants such as BOD, COD, nitrogen, and phosphorus, thanks to the continuous activity of biofilm-covered carriers. The self-regulating nature of the biofilm reduces the need for frequent maintenance, making the system reliable and easy to manage. Additionally, MBBRs are highly scalable, making them suitable for a wide range of applications—from small municipal systems to large, complex industrial facilities.

Real-World Applications

  • Industrial: Suitable for complex wastewater from sectors like food and beverage, petrochemicals, mining, pulp and paper, and landfills.
  • Municipal: Reliable for city and town wastewater systems.

How MBBRs work

Crane and elevated work platform beside an MBBR tank at a rural treatment site at sunset.
01

Wastewater Entry

Incoming wastewater flows into the MBBR tank and contacts the biofilm-covered carriers.
02

Biological Treatment

Microorganisms digest organic pollutants, reducing BOD, COD, nitrogen, and phosphorus.
03

Aeration & Mixing:

Oxygen is continuously supplied, and carriers are kept in motion to maximize efficiency.
04

Separation & Discharge:

Treated water is separated from the carriers and discharged.
Three wastewater samples, including a clear treated sample, in front of membrane treatment equipment.

Largest Soft Drink Producer

bioFLOW™ MBR - Upgraded Failing MBR System to Reduce BOD from 25,000 mg/L to <500 mg/L
Cylindrical wastewater treatment tanks at a landfill leachate treatment facility.

Landfill Leachate

bioFLOW™ MBR - Removes More Than 90% Influent Parameters for Permit Compliance
Outdoor wastewater treatment tanks and indoor solids-separation equipment at a potato processing plant.

Potato Processing Plant

bioFAS™ MBBR - Treatment System Removes More Than 90% of the BOD at Food & Beverage Facility
Large pipes and valves above a concrete wastewater treatment basin at Letterkenny Army Depot.

Letterkenny Army Depot

bioFAS™ MBBR - Effectively Removed 90+% of BOD While Handling Variable Flows & Loads
Aerial view of a cheese production facility and its wastewater treatment tanks.

Cheese Producer

bioPULSE™ Membrane System - Reduced BOD More Than 90% for Permit Compliance
Water treatment equipment with blue pressure vessels, piping, and a control panel.
24/7 availability for critical support

Connect with Our Expert Engineers Today and Find Solutions for Your Wastewater Challenges