Products For Industry (PFi) has launched what it claims to be a world-first wastewater treatment solution using pure titanium cross-flow membranes, marking an advancement in the industry.
This innovative technology, developed over ten years, aims to enhanced uptime and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional wastewater treatment methods.
Currently deployed in collaboration with a leading beverage company, the titanium membrane system efficiently separates solids from liquid streams at various stages of the wastewater process.
“This solution is game-changing for the food and beverage industry, particularly beverages and spirits,” said Gavin Dunwoodie, managing director of PFi.
“Titanium allows for a lower footprint and longer times between Clean In Place (CIP) processes, ultimately reducing downtime.”
PFi, a Queensland-based company, specialises in machine automation products and solutions, providing a suite of services to support manufacturers from concept to production.
Dunwoodie pointed out the limitations of traditional ceramic and plastic membranes, which often lead to cleaning issues that compromise equipment longevity.
According to the company, titanium, known for its strength-to-weight ratio, is a key material in this innovative solution.
“It is as strong as steel, but weighs 45% less, and is non-magnetic, non-corrosive, and does not conduct electricity,” Dunwoodie explained.
Integration with Rockwell Automation
For the automation aspect of the new system, PFi selected Rockwell Automation’s CompactLogix Control System and PanelView Plus Graphic Terminal.
“We needed automation hardware that was streamlined, repeatable, and easy to integrate, so we selected Rockwell Automation’s CompactLogix Control System and PanelView Plus Graphic Terminal,” said Dunwoodie.
The CompactLogix controllers enhance productivity and performance, while the PanelView Plus offers a user-friendly graphical interface, enabling efficient system configuration.
Dunwoodie praised Rockwell for their ongoing support throughout the integration process, ensuring compatibility with international coding standards.
Anthony Wong, regional director for Rockwell Automation in South Pacific, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying,
“We are delighted to be able to provide automation technology solutions, and ongoing support for PFi’s latest Australian innovation. PFi is a valued Gold OEM partner in our PartnerNetwork, and we look forward to our continued collaboration to add value to customers.”
Significant environmental benefits
PFi’s new factory in Queensland was built specifically for developing the titanium membrane solution.
Previous pilot tests conducted at a wastewater treatment facility in New Zealand demonstrated the technology’s advantages, such as high flow rates and minimal fouling issues.
Dunwoodie emphasised the environmental benefits, noting, “The titanium membrane can be 100% recycled at the end of its use, reducing its overall ecological impact.”
Key advantages of the titanium cross-flow membrane include:
- Continuous lengths exceeding 1.3 meters
- A wide range of apertures and filtration sizes
- Unique wall thicknesses below 400 microns
- High resistance to temperature, acidity, and pressure
- Industry-leading flux rates and flow levels
- Non-perishable and recyclable materials
- Back-pulsable, steam-cleanable, and chemically resistant properties
Dunwoodie sees substantial potential for this solution in global markets and is focused on scaling operations following successful pilot tests.
He added, “Rockwell’s standard design will enhance our solution’s market acceptance, particularly in the spirit industry, where it can replace paper membranes to achieve better outcomes with less waste.”
