How to maintain MBBR biofilter media

Maintaining MBBR biofilter media is essential to ensure its efficient operation and extend its service life. Here are some maintenance points:

1. Check Water Quality Regularly
Regularly test the water quality indicators of inlet and outlet water, such as chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), ammonia nitrogen, total phosphorus, etc. If the water quality is abnormal, it is necessary to analyze the cause in time and take corresponding measures, such as adjusting the inlet flow rate, checking the pretreatment process, etc., to prevent the sudden change of water quality from impacting the biofilter media.

2. Control Operating Parameters
The operating parameters of MBBR biofilter media need to be strictly controlled. The temperature should be kept within the range suitable for microbial growth, generally 15-35℃; the pH value should be maintained between 6.5-8.5. At the same time, the hydraulic retention time (HRT) and dissolved oxygen (DO) should be reasonably controlled. Usually, the HRT is 6-12 hours and the DO is 2-4mg/L.

3. Prevent Filter Media From Clogging
To prevent filter media from clogging, the reactor can be backwashed regularly. The frequency and intensity of backwashing should be determined according to the actual operation conditions, generally 1-2 times a week. When backwashing, the air-water combined backwashing method can be used. First, air is introduced for aeration to loosen the filter material, and then water is used to wash away the trapped impurities and detached biofilm.

4. Replenishment and Replacement of Filter Material
As the operation time increases, the filter material may lose its activity due to wear, breakage or excessive accumulation of biofilm, and needs to be replenished and replaced regularly. Generally, the loss of filter material should be checked every year, and an appropriate amount of new filter material should be added as needed. When the performance of the filter material is significantly reduced and it still cannot meet the treatment requirements even after backwashing and maintenance, the filter material should be replaced completely.

5. Monitoring Microbial Status
Regularly observe the growth status of microorganisms on the biofilter material, such as the color, thickness, structure, etc. of the biofilm. A normal biofilm should be yellow-brown, dense in structure and have a certain elasticity. If the biofilm is found to be abnormal in color, thinning or falling off, there may be problems with water quality, operating parameters, etc., which need to be adjusted in time. Microbial detection methods such as microscopic observation and activity determination can also be used to understand the types and activities of microorganisms, providing a basis for operation and management.

If you are interested in learning more about MBBR biofilter media, please contact BioCell Environmental Technology for more information.

https://www.biocell-enviro.com/