Efficient Water Treatment with High-Tech Plastic Components

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia - July 23, 2026 - PRLog -- As global water management faces growing challenges from climate change, urbanization and stricter wastewater regulations, Membion GmbH is pioneering a new generation of membrane bioreactors (MBR) that combine environmental performance with economic efficiency. To ensure the reliability of its highly automated manufacturing processes, the company relies on igus motion plastics, including energy chains, chainflex cables, xiros ball bearings, readychain systems and stepper motors.

Membion's innovative MBR technology delivers water quality up to 1,000 times better than conventional wastewater treatment systems, while reducing facility space requirements and cutting energy consumption by up to 90%. Proven in a government-funded demonstration project, the system effectively removes bacteria, multi-resistant germs and microplastics, while also eliminating pharmaceutical residues when combined with powdered activated carbon.

To support the large-scale production of its advanced membrane filters, Membion developed a highly automated manufacturing process requiring components capable of operating continuously under demanding conditions. Since 2017, igus high-performance plastics have played a critical role in ensuring reliability and efficiency throughout production.

At the heart of the system are E2 mini and E2 micro energy chains paired with chainflex servo, control and bus cables, delivering dependable energy and data transmission in confined installation spaces. Designed for high dynamics and continuous operation, these components provide exceptional durability even in humid production environments. The use of preassembled readychain energy supply systems further simplifies installation and accelerates machine commissioning.

Process reliability is reinforced by xiros deep groove ball bearings made from xirodur B180. Operating completely underwater at temperatures exceeding 50°C and exposed to solvents, the maintenance-free bearings require no external lubrication thanks to integrated solid lubricants. The bearings continue to perform reliably throughout the wet section of production without replacement, demonstrating the long service life associated with igus motion plastics.

Membion has also integrated NEMA34 stepper motors and is evaluating the drylin D1 motor control system to further optimize automation performance.

"Our production depends on components that perform flawlessly around the clock," says Dr. Klaus Vossenkaul, Founder and CEO of Membion. "The quality, flexibility, engineering support and outstanding price-performance ratio of igus products have helped us improve reliability while reducing costs."

With demand rising, including projects such as Germany's largest membrane wastewater treatment plant in Wolfsburg, Membion is expanding its production capabilities. As the company scales, igus energy chains, chainflex cables, xiros ball bearings and automation solutions will continue to support the efficient, safe and sustainable production of next-generation water treatment technology.

Learn more: https://www.igus.my/industry/sewage-treatment-plants
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