Nanofiltration (NF)

Nanofiltration (NF) is a filtration method using membranes with pore sizes from 1-10 nanometres. The pore sizes are smaller than that used in microfiltration and ultrafiltration, yet they are larger than in reverse osmosis. Therefore, it’s a very effective method to remove divalent ions like calcium, magnesium, sulphates etc.
Nanofiltration is often used for treatment of drinking water and industrial process water.
• Drinking water
• Reduction of sulphate, chloride, and fluoride
• Partial softening without use of regeneration chemicals
• Industrial process water
• Partial softening and reduction of colour and humus from surface water in e.g. the iron and metal industry and paper mills.

Nanofiltration or reverse osmosis?

Reverse osmosis is typically used for demineralization of water, since this filtration method covers the widest field of application (see the diagram). Nanofiltration, on the other hand, is applied in order to reduce unwanted components in full or in part. Unlike reverse osmosis, nanofiltration applies a lower pressure, typically under seven bar, resulting in lower energy consumption compared with a reverse osmosis plant with the same productivity.
You must also choose a nanofiltration plant over a reverse osmosis plant if you want a certain hardness, because a potential demineralization will make the water aggressive and lead to problems with corrosion in the supply network.

Designed for your needs

CBIPL offers a broad product range of fully automatic nanofiltration units – based on our well-known modular standard system, which makes it possible for us to combine an optimal plant for your needs.
The technique behind
Nanofiltration is a membrane technology, which in its mode of operation and construction is very similar to reverse osmosis. A nanofiltration membrane primarily restrains divalent ions and larger molecules. When it comes to the filtration process, a nanofiltration unit is placed between reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration – see the diagram.

Nanofiltration for sulphate removal

CBIPL is at the forefront to embrace new technologies. For example, we are pioneers in the Middle East region by employing nanofiltration for sulphate removal in hydraulic fracking applications. We design, manufacture and supply systems for sulphate removal from both seawater and brackish water. Our systems provide a reliable and efficient service at low cost per barrel of treated water.

Mobile nanofiltration systems

Our customised, containerised mobile systems for reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration and nanofiltration are of plug and play nature. They have remote monitoring capabilities, and can be deployed in remote locations. Our systems can also be designed for softening seawater used in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR)applications. ensuring that your nanofiltration system is operating 24/7.