- Email: [email protected]
Anti-fouling membrane extends LG Chem's RO portfolio
NEWS/IN BRIEF research and development, application technology and another warehouse. Evonik says that, overall, it is investing an amount in the mid double-digit million euro range. The new plant, which will double the existing production capacity, is scheduled to open in late 2017 and will bring more than 30 new jobs to Schörfling. Evonik’s Schörfling plant is currently producing gas separation modules primarily for the biogas market, and for hydrogen and helium recovery. The new hollow-fibre spinning plant will focus on the manufacture of membrane modules for efficient on-site nitrogen generation. ‘We want to supply the gas separation market with tailor-made products that make a significant contribution to greater efficiency for our customers. The investment in Schörfling creates additional opportunities to further broaden our membrane portfolio,’ noted Dr Claus Rettig, Chairman of the Board of Management, Evonik Resource Efficiency GmbH. Sepuran membranes offer a particularly efficient method for separating gases such as methane, nitrogen, or hydrogen from gas mixtures. According to Evonik, the advantages of its membrane technology for gas separation include more precise separation of gases and greater productivity. The company’s plant in Lenzing near the Schörfling site manufactures the source material polyimide – a high-performance polymer – which is spun and then further processed at Schörfling. The infrastructure at Lenzing will be upgraded accordingly as part of the site expansion, says the firm. Contact: Evonik Industries Ag, Rellinghauser Strasse 1–11, 45128 Essen, Germany. Tel: +49 201 177 01, http://corporate.evonik.de, www.sepuran.com/product/ sepuran/en/Pages/gas-separation.aspx
H2O Innovation obtains patent for maple sap concentration process
T
hrough its maple division, Canada’s H2O Innovation Inc has recently obtained a patent for a membrane-based process for producing maple syrup. The company says that the patent covers a “high concentration” maple sap process that enhances energy and production efficiency as well as a continuity in the quality of the maple syrup produced. This technology has already been sold to more than 15 sugar bushes in North America in the last two years. The system and process of producing maple syrup enables producers to concentrate the maple
November 2016
sap between 30°Bx and 45 °Bx using membrane filtration. By substantially increasing the sugar concentration level, the quantity of water to be evaporated is significantly reduced. This significantly reduces the energy required for evaporation. The boiling phase, which is the last production phase, enables producers to cook the syrup to their desired colour and taste and to improve the product’s classification. ‘We are proud to have obtained a patent for the system and “high concentration” maple sap process. This process enables maple syrup producers to make significant savings in oil consumption – equivalent to more than 50%, compared with conventional processes. Furthermore, maple producers that use this process are now able to maintain the quality of their maple,’ commented Rock Gaulin, Vice-President, Manufacturing & Maple, H2O Innovation. The Super-Concentrator, the High Brix Supra and the High Brix Econox all use the patented high concentration maple sap process. These systems are part of H2O Maple’s SMART series – a complete line of high-end maple production equipment. Contact: H2O Innovation Inc, 330 rue St-Vallier Est, Suite 340, Quebec City, Quebec G1K 9C5, Canada. Tel: +1 418 688 0170, www.h2oinnovation.com
Anti-fouling membrane extends LG Chem’s RO portfolio
S
outh Korea’s LG Water Solutions, part of LG Chem, has introduced a new anti-fouling (AF) brackish water reverse osmosis (RO) membrane which, it claims, represents real innovation in AF technology. The manufacturer of RO membranes says that the LG BW 400 AFR boasts proprietary chemistry that reduces performance deterioration caused by organic and biological fouling – a common problem in various water-treatment applications. According to LG Chem, the AF formulation effects anti-fouling performance without losing the highly permeable nature of the membrane’s surface. This makes the LG BW 400 AFR ideally suited to applications with high fouling potential, such as wastewater reuse and reclamation, industrial wastewater treatment and RO brine recovery. ‘Our new AF membranes represent real innovation in anti-fouling technology,’ commented Dr Hoon Hyung, Vice President, Project Engineering, LG Water Solutions. ‘We have maintained the membrane’s performance whilst delivering excellent fouling
In Brief Lanxess’ LPT business now markets iron oxide adsorbers German speciality chemicals company Lanxess Deutschland GmbH has reorganised the marketing structure for its Bayoxide iron oxide adsorbers. The Liquid Purification Technologies (LPT) business unit is now responsible for the sales and marketing activities of the Bayoxide E range of technical iron oxide adsorbers – produced by the firm’s Inorganic Pigments (IPG) business unit, which also previously marketed them. It has been added to LPT’s comprehensive portfolio of Lewatit ion-exchange resins and Lewabrane reverse osmosis membrane elements. Bayoxide E 33 removes arsenic from water. HPC4Mfg spring 2016 program includes membrane-related projects Two membrane-related projects are amongst the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) High Performance Computing for Manufacturing (HPC4Mfg) Program spring 2016 solicitation selectees. The American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute is to work with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) to systematically explore lower energy mechanisms of chemical separation using adsorbents and membranes in a project entitled ‘Accelerating Industrial Application of Energy-Efficient Alternative Separations.’ California’s Sepion Technologies is forming a partnership with LBNL to make new membranes to increase the lifetime of Li-S batteries in a project entitled ‘Improving the Manufacturability, Performance, and Durability of Microporous Polymer Membrane Separators for Li–S Batteries using First Principles Computer Simulations.’ IOM3 Awards 2017 now open for entry The Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), a membership organisation based in the UK that exists to promote and develop all aspects of materials science and engineering, geology, mining and associated technologies, mineral and petroleum engineering and extraction metallurgy, is inviting nominations for its Awards for 2017. The deadline is 13 January 2017. More information: www.iom3.org/nominations Alfa Laval highlights first step of its new strategic direction Alfa Laval Ab, a Swedish company that specialises in heat transfer, centrifugal separation and fluid handling systems, recently announced the first step of its new strategic direction to lift organic growth. Set to be launched on 1 January 2017, it will be based on three industry-oriented business divisions: Marine, Food & Water and Energy.
Membrane Technology
3
NEWS resistance. So even for challenging feed water, with high fouling potential, customers can expect reliable system operation without compromising system productivity or product quality.’ Contact: LG Chem Ltd, LG Twin Towers 128, Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea. Tel: +82 2 3773 1114, www.lgchem.com, www.LGwatersolutions.com
Osmoflo RO systems produce potable water for island of Ebeye
R
everse osmosis (RO) systems from Australian desalination company Osmoflo Pty Ltd are being used in a project that produces potable water on the island of Ebeye, located in the Marshall Islands, near the equator, in the Pacific Ocean. The project involved the design, supply and installation of two sea-water RO plants with a capacity of 1600 m3/d – providing the island with a supply of drinking water. In addition, Osmoflo is responsible for operations and maintenance of the plant. The firm’s PlantConnect remote monitoring systems are being used as support because of the remoteness of the location. Osmoflo says that this project, which was secured against international competition, showcases its growing international footprint. Contact: Osmoflo Pty Ltd, 382 Diment Road, Burton, 5110, South Australia, Australia. Tel: +61 8 8282 9700, www.osmoflo.com
Porvair fulfils challenging order from major semiconductor firm
P
orvair Filtration Group’s Boise Division – formerly TEM filters – is producing almost 4500 filters for a global semiconductor designer and manufacturer based in the USA – mobilising operations in record time to meet the challenge. Porvair’s GasPro 500 filter’s unique benefits were identified by the supplier of sophisticated silicon wafers as ideal for the required retrofit application. This highly efficient, high-performance filter is a product based on a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane, which is sized 4
Membrane Technology
for 25 scfm gas-flow applications. It is primarily used in a range of process gas applications, for example, nitrogen purge gas and clean dry air (CDA) systems. The Gaspro 500 is being retrofitted to a particular tool that uses CDA – with the filtration company ensuring that it is compatible with the four types of connections used by the original equipment manufacturer. Porvair says that the microelectronics company was keen to realise marked energy savings as it looked to push air at a lower pressure-drop across the filter – making the Gaspro 500 series the desired choice. Kevin Nelson, President, Porvair USA, said: ‘We are proud to be working with one of the largest and most innovative companies of its kind, delivering high-quality systems and products that help to realise value and drive greater efficiencies across its global operations.’ ‘We are confident in our ability to deliver further value to the semiconductor designer and manufacturer as part of what we hope will be a strong and enduring relationship. The win also bears out our wider commitment to delivering fresh innovation to the semiconductor industry, following significant investment in our Boise Division.’ (Also see ‘Porvair strengthens its position in the microelectronics sector’ Membrane Technology August 2016, page 5.) Contacts: Porvair Filtration Group Inc, Boise Division, 1226 Caldwell Boulevard, Nampa, ID 83651, USA. Tel: +1 208 461 2090, www.porvairfiltration.com Porvair Filtration Group Ltd, 1 Concorde Close, Segensworth, Fareham, Hampshire PO15 5RT, UK. Tel: +44 1489 864330, www.porvairfiltration.com
Grundfos launches lightweight UF and RO booster pumps in India
G
rundfos Pumps India Pvt Ltd has launched a range of energyefficient high-speed booster pumps for reverse osmosis (RO) and ultrafiltration (UF) applications in India. According to the company, the BMS hs AC pumps’ improved design and enhanced features ensure high efficiency and energy savings, compared with previous systems. They are specifically designed for high flow and pressure applications. The BMS hs AC design features an asynchronous motor that can generate an outlet pressure of up to 82.7 bar, and is targeted at applications where a high outlet pressure is required. It can be integrated into any water treatment sys-
tem and has a small footprint. The pumps’ vital components, which are in contact with water, are made from super duplex stainless steel. Commenting on the launch, Saravanan Panneer Selvam, Chief Operating Officer, Sales, Grundfos India, said: ‘The launch of BMS hs AC is a reflection of Grundfos’ constant dedication to increasing our products’ efficiency and sustainability. We are certain that the demand for energyefficient and reliable pumps will help ensure the success of this product like any other product Grundfos has launched in India.’ Contact: Grundfos Pumps India Pvt Ltd, No 118, Rajiv Gandhi Salai, Thoraipakkam, Chennai-97, India. Tel: +91 44 4596 6800, www.grundfos.in
Elix system delivers up to 9000 litres of pure water a day
G
ermany’s Merck KgaA, a leading science and technology company that operates in healthcare, life sciences and the performance materials sector, is offering the Elix high-throughput water purification system. Designed to operate at the heart of a central water-purification unit, it is capable of supplying up to 9000 litres of analytical-grade water per day for regular laboratory applications and instrument feeds, says the company. It also enables authorised users to use real-time remote monitoring via a computer, tablet or smartphone which provides access to all important water quality data. The system combines Merck’s Elix electrodeionisation technology with advanced purification, including Progard pretreatment cartridges, reverse osmosis and bactericidal UV lamp treatment. The new models include Merck’s Evolutive Reject Adjustment (ERA) technology, which automatically optimises water recovery and reduces water usage costs by taking feed-water quality into account. The system also can be linked to a laboratory information management system, or building management system, for enhanced efficiency and productivity. The Elix system’s easy-to-use communications interface displays all of the details needed for daily operation. A large colour touchscreen features storage level and dispensing information, water production and the status of system consumables, including step-by-step instructions from a system wizard for effortless replacement.
Contact: Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany. Tel: +49 6151 720, www.merck.de
November 2016
H2O Innovation obtains patent for maple sap concentration process
T
hrough its maple division, Canada’s H2O Innovation Inc has recently obtained a patent for a membrane-based process for producing maple syrup. The company says that the patent covers a “high concentration” maple sap process that enhances energy and production efficiency as well as a continuity in the quality of the maple syrup produced. This technology has already been sold to more than 15 sugar bushes in North America in the last two years. The system and process of producing maple syrup enables producers to concentrate the maple
November 2016
sap between 30°Bx and 45 °Bx using membrane filtration. By substantially increasing the sugar concentration level, the quantity of water to be evaporated is significantly reduced. This significantly reduces the energy required for evaporation. The boiling phase, which is the last production phase, enables producers to cook the syrup to their desired colour and taste and to improve the product’s classification. ‘We are proud to have obtained a patent for the system and “high concentration” maple sap process. This process enables maple syrup producers to make significant savings in oil consumption – equivalent to more than 50%, compared with conventional processes. Furthermore, maple producers that use this process are now able to maintain the quality of their maple,’ commented Rock Gaulin, Vice-President, Manufacturing & Maple, H2O Innovation. The Super-Concentrator, the High Brix Supra and the High Brix Econox all use the patented high concentration maple sap process. These systems are part of H2O Maple’s SMART series – a complete line of high-end maple production equipment. Contact: H2O Innovation Inc, 330 rue St-Vallier Est, Suite 340, Quebec City, Quebec G1K 9C5, Canada. Tel: +1 418 688 0170, www.h2oinnovation.com
Anti-fouling membrane extends LG Chem’s RO portfolio
S
outh Korea’s LG Water Solutions, part of LG Chem, has introduced a new anti-fouling (AF) brackish water reverse osmosis (RO) membrane which, it claims, represents real innovation in AF technology. The manufacturer of RO membranes says that the LG BW 400 AFR boasts proprietary chemistry that reduces performance deterioration caused by organic and biological fouling – a common problem in various water-treatment applications. According to LG Chem, the AF formulation effects anti-fouling performance without losing the highly permeable nature of the membrane’s surface. This makes the LG BW 400 AFR ideally suited to applications with high fouling potential, such as wastewater reuse and reclamation, industrial wastewater treatment and RO brine recovery. ‘Our new AF membranes represent real innovation in anti-fouling technology,’ commented Dr Hoon Hyung, Vice President, Project Engineering, LG Water Solutions. ‘We have maintained the membrane’s performance whilst delivering excellent fouling
In Brief Lanxess’ LPT business now markets iron oxide adsorbers German speciality chemicals company Lanxess Deutschland GmbH has reorganised the marketing structure for its Bayoxide iron oxide adsorbers. The Liquid Purification Technologies (LPT) business unit is now responsible for the sales and marketing activities of the Bayoxide E range of technical iron oxide adsorbers – produced by the firm’s Inorganic Pigments (IPG) business unit, which also previously marketed them. It has been added to LPT’s comprehensive portfolio of Lewatit ion-exchange resins and Lewabrane reverse osmosis membrane elements. Bayoxide E 33 removes arsenic from water. HPC4Mfg spring 2016 program includes membrane-related projects Two membrane-related projects are amongst the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) High Performance Computing for Manufacturing (HPC4Mfg) Program spring 2016 solicitation selectees. The American Chemical Society Green Chemistry Institute is to work with Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) to systematically explore lower energy mechanisms of chemical separation using adsorbents and membranes in a project entitled ‘Accelerating Industrial Application of Energy-Efficient Alternative Separations.’ California’s Sepion Technologies is forming a partnership with LBNL to make new membranes to increase the lifetime of Li-S batteries in a project entitled ‘Improving the Manufacturability, Performance, and Durability of Microporous Polymer Membrane Separators for Li–S Batteries using First Principles Computer Simulations.’ IOM3 Awards 2017 now open for entry The Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), a membership organisation based in the UK that exists to promote and develop all aspects of materials science and engineering, geology, mining and associated technologies, mineral and petroleum engineering and extraction metallurgy, is inviting nominations for its Awards for 2017. The deadline is 13 January 2017. More information: www.iom3.org/nominations Alfa Laval highlights first step of its new strategic direction Alfa Laval Ab, a Swedish company that specialises in heat transfer, centrifugal separation and fluid handling systems, recently announced the first step of its new strategic direction to lift organic growth. Set to be launched on 1 January 2017, it will be based on three industry-oriented business divisions: Marine, Food & Water and Energy.
Membrane Technology
3
NEWS resistance. So even for challenging feed water, with high fouling potential, customers can expect reliable system operation without compromising system productivity or product quality.’ Contact: LG Chem Ltd, LG Twin Towers 128, Yeoui-daero, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, South Korea. Tel: +82 2 3773 1114, www.lgchem.com, www.LGwatersolutions.com
Osmoflo RO systems produce potable water for island of Ebeye
R
everse osmosis (RO) systems from Australian desalination company Osmoflo Pty Ltd are being used in a project that produces potable water on the island of Ebeye, located in the Marshall Islands, near the equator, in the Pacific Ocean. The project involved the design, supply and installation of two sea-water RO plants with a capacity of 1600 m3/d – providing the island with a supply of drinking water. In addition, Osmoflo is responsible for operations and maintenance of the plant. The firm’s PlantConnect remote monitoring systems are being used as support because of the remoteness of the location. Osmoflo says that this project, which was secured against international competition, showcases its growing international footprint. Contact: Osmoflo Pty Ltd, 382 Diment Road, Burton, 5110, South Australia, Australia. Tel: +61 8 8282 9700, www.osmoflo.com
Porvair fulfils challenging order from major semiconductor firm
P
orvair Filtration Group’s Boise Division – formerly TEM filters – is producing almost 4500 filters for a global semiconductor designer and manufacturer based in the USA – mobilising operations in record time to meet the challenge. Porvair’s GasPro 500 filter’s unique benefits were identified by the supplier of sophisticated silicon wafers as ideal for the required retrofit application. This highly efficient, high-performance filter is a product based on a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane, which is sized 4
Membrane Technology
for 25 scfm gas-flow applications. It is primarily used in a range of process gas applications, for example, nitrogen purge gas and clean dry air (CDA) systems. The Gaspro 500 is being retrofitted to a particular tool that uses CDA – with the filtration company ensuring that it is compatible with the four types of connections used by the original equipment manufacturer. Porvair says that the microelectronics company was keen to realise marked energy savings as it looked to push air at a lower pressure-drop across the filter – making the Gaspro 500 series the desired choice. Kevin Nelson, President, Porvair USA, said: ‘We are proud to be working with one of the largest and most innovative companies of its kind, delivering high-quality systems and products that help to realise value and drive greater efficiencies across its global operations.’ ‘We are confident in our ability to deliver further value to the semiconductor designer and manufacturer as part of what we hope will be a strong and enduring relationship. The win also bears out our wider commitment to delivering fresh innovation to the semiconductor industry, following significant investment in our Boise Division.’ (Also see ‘Porvair strengthens its position in the microelectronics sector’ Membrane Technology August 2016, page 5.) Contacts: Porvair Filtration Group Inc, Boise Division, 1226 Caldwell Boulevard, Nampa, ID 83651, USA. Tel: +1 208 461 2090, www.porvairfiltration.com Porvair Filtration Group Ltd, 1 Concorde Close, Segensworth, Fareham, Hampshire PO15 5RT, UK. Tel: +44 1489 864330, www.porvairfiltration.com
Grundfos launches lightweight UF and RO booster pumps in India
G
rundfos Pumps India Pvt Ltd has launched a range of energyefficient high-speed booster pumps for reverse osmosis (RO) and ultrafiltration (UF) applications in India. According to the company, the BMS hs AC pumps’ improved design and enhanced features ensure high efficiency and energy savings, compared with previous systems. They are specifically designed for high flow and pressure applications. The BMS hs AC design features an asynchronous motor that can generate an outlet pressure of up to 82.7 bar, and is targeted at applications where a high outlet pressure is required. It can be integrated into any water treatment sys-
tem and has a small footprint. The pumps’ vital components, which are in contact with water, are made from super duplex stainless steel. Commenting on the launch, Saravanan Panneer Selvam, Chief Operating Officer, Sales, Grundfos India, said: ‘The launch of BMS hs AC is a reflection of Grundfos’ constant dedication to increasing our products’ efficiency and sustainability. We are certain that the demand for energyefficient and reliable pumps will help ensure the success of this product like any other product Grundfos has launched in India.’ Contact: Grundfos Pumps India Pvt Ltd, No 118, Rajiv Gandhi Salai, Thoraipakkam, Chennai-97, India. Tel: +91 44 4596 6800, www.grundfos.in
Elix system delivers up to 9000 litres of pure water a day
G
ermany’s Merck KgaA, a leading science and technology company that operates in healthcare, life sciences and the performance materials sector, is offering the Elix high-throughput water purification system. Designed to operate at the heart of a central water-purification unit, it is capable of supplying up to 9000 litres of analytical-grade water per day for regular laboratory applications and instrument feeds, says the company. It also enables authorised users to use real-time remote monitoring via a computer, tablet or smartphone which provides access to all important water quality data. The system combines Merck’s Elix electrodeionisation technology with advanced purification, including Progard pretreatment cartridges, reverse osmosis and bactericidal UV lamp treatment. The new models include Merck’s Evolutive Reject Adjustment (ERA) technology, which automatically optimises water recovery and reduces water usage costs by taking feed-water quality into account. The system also can be linked to a laboratory information management system, or building management system, for enhanced efficiency and productivity. The Elix system’s easy-to-use communications interface displays all of the details needed for daily operation. A large colour touchscreen features storage level and dispensing information, water production and the status of system consumables, including step-by-step instructions from a system wizard for effortless replacement.
Contact: Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany. Tel: +49 6151 720, www.merck.de
November 2016