This section provides an overview for membrane separations as well as their applications and principles. Also, please take a look at the list of 39 membrane separation manufacturers and their company rankings. Here are the top-ranked membrane separation companies as of November, 2024: 1.Equilibar, LLC, 2.Brian Crower Inc., 3.GENERON.
Table of Contents
Membrane separation is a technique for separating, extracting, and concentrating substances by sieving them through a membrane.
Membranes used in membrane separation have small pores and can selectively permeate substances depending on their size, electric charge, and osmotic pressure.
Membrane separation uses energy gradients as the driving force to permeate substances actively, and in principle, there are three main types of energy gradients: chemical potential, pressure difference, and potential difference.
Membrane separations are mainly used in processes such as purification, concentration, and separation. Other methods, such as distillation, crystallization, and extraction, also exist.
Purification is the removal of impurities, such as suspended solids, bacteria, and ions from water. It is used for the desalination of seawater, treatment, and reclamation of industrial wastewater, and treatment of sewage.
Concentration is a method of producing salt from seawater using an ion-exchange membrane electrodialysis process. In this method, cation-exchange membranes and anion-exchange membranes are arranged in alternating rows to create an electrodialysis circuit that allows for the transfer and selective permeation of ions through a potential difference.
Separation is a method of separating small molecules and macromolecules, mainly used in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. It can also separate various entities, including viruses, yeast, colloids, and particulates, among others.
Membrane separations are performed mainly by two membrane filtration methods: total filtration and cross-flow filtration.
In the total filtration method, all raw water supplied is filtered. In this method, no wastewater is generated.
Also, by supplying raw water to the membrane, filtration residue is formed on the membrane. Filtration is performed using the same method as general sand filtration and requires periodic cleaning.
On the other hand, the cross-flow filtration method feeds raw water parallel to the membrane surface, causing impurities to accumulate on the membrane surface. This method is characterized by the fact that the raw water flows horizontally, which prevents clogging of the filter media, and by the fact that the permeate flux is higher than that of the total filtration method.
Membrane separations can be divided into four types, depending mainly on the size of the object to be separated. The types of membrane separations are listed below in order of object size from largest to coarsest. There are several other membrane separation methods, and this topic will discuss ion exchange membranes and gas separation membranes.
Microfiltration membranes are a membrane separation method that separates particulates and microorganisms from about 0.01um to a few um. This method mainly separates viruses, bacteria, algae, and mud. Applications include wastewater reclamation, sterilization, and drinking water treatment.
Ultrafiltration membranes are a membrane separation method that separates solutes and particles from about 0.1um to 2nm. This method mainly separates proteins, viruses, and bacteria. Applications include the concentration of fruit juices and dairy products and the separation or recovery of electro-deposited paint.
Nano-filtration membranes are a membrane separation method that separates particles and macromolecules from a few nanometers to several tens of nanometers. This method mainly separates ions, proteins, and viruses. Applications include fruit juice concentration and drinking water treatment.
Reverse osmosis is a membrane separation method that separates solvents and solutes from about 0.1 nm to a few nm. This method mainly separates ions and proteins. Applications include desalination of seawater, concentration of fruit juices and dairy products, and wastewater purification.
An ion exchange membrane is a membrane system that selectively allows the passage of cations and anions between about 0.01um and 1nm. This method is mainly used to separate proteins, polysaccharides, enzymes, antibiotics, etc. Examples of applications include the production of salt and sodium hydroxide.
Gas separation membranes are a membrane separation method that separates gas components from approximately 1 nm to 0.1 nm. This method mainly separates ions and molecules. Applications include enzyme enrichment and separation of methane, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen.
*Including some distributors, etc.
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GENERON is a manufacturer of compressed air and process packages that was established in 1963, the company is based in Houston, Texas, USA. The company specializes in designing and producing nitrogen and oxygen generation systems. GENERON’s product offerings include PSA nitrogen generators and membrane nitrogen generators. Its technologies serve the Gas Separation and Compression Industries such as oil and gas, food and beverage, and pharmaceuticals. The company’s membrane separators produce high purity nitrogen supply that’s mobile, has low maintenance and customized to volume and size. GENERON, as an ISO-certified organization, offers services like system design and after-sales support.
Smith & Loveless Inc., founded in 1946 and headquartered in Kansas City, is a manufacturer of water and wastewater treatment solutions. The company specializes in the design and production of pumping systems, grit removal equipment, and membrane bioreactor systems. It caters to municipalities, industries, and utilities globally, ensuring efficient water management. The company's products are known for its technology and adherence to rigorous ISO standards. It also ensures customer satisfaction by offering after-sales service and technical support to meet diverse project requirements.
Equilibar, LLC founded in 2007 is a manufacturer and supplier of fluid control products for demanding applications in pressure, flow and vacuum control based in Fletcher, North Carolina, United States. The company’s main products include back pressure regulators, flow control valves, vacuum regulators, and electronic pressure regulators. The products are based on a patented dome-loaded, multiple orifice technology that offers superior precision and responsiveness for complex process conditions. Its products are used in various industries such as catalysis, oil and gas, fuel cells, and aerospace. It also provides custom-made fluid control solutions and consulting services.
Andritz AG was initially founded as a much smaller company back in 1852 as an iron foundry, but today the company is a manufacturer and supplier of a wide range of industrial machinery, chemicals, fuels, and textiles, among many more. The company's product portfolio includes over 20 core areas: pulp and paper, metals, cyber security, feeds, and biofuels. Examples include decanter centrifuges, mechanical separation extractors, contact and paddle dryers, and batch helix dryers used in the environment, chemicals, food and beverage, and mining industries. Secondary services include the supply of spare parts, rentals, process consulting, and on-site repairs and upgrades.
TIE Machinery Co., Ltd., established in 2012 and based in Zhangjiagang City, china, is a manufacturer and supplier specializing in beverage packing machinery. The company's product portfolio includes water filling machines, barrel filling lines, and carton unpacking machines. These products find application in various industries, including beverage, packaging, and the water treatment industry. The company also provides services including technical support, customization, and maintenance. The company is ISO 9001:2000 certified, with a global sales network reaching the United States, Germany, and India.
Sysbiotech GmbH, founded in 2000, is a manufacturer and supplier based in Vienna, Austria, developing bioprocessing equipment and automation services. Certified with ISO 9001:2008, the company offers a range of autoclavable fermenters and cell culture bioreactors in pilot-scale, laboratory-scale, and industrial-scale capacities. It also provides cleaning-in-place (CIP) systems, filtration systems, supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, and freeze-drying solutions. The company caters to diverse industries, assisting with site acceptance testing procedures and validation processes for installation, operation, and performance qualification.
Grünbeck Wasseraufbereitung GmbH, founded in 1949 and based in Höchstädt, Germany, is a manufacturer of water treatment products. The company provides drinking water treatment products in the areas of softening, filter and dosing technology, as well as systems for heating water treatment. It provides products both for residential and commercial purposes, which includes water softeners, filter systems and swimming pool technology. The company offers seminars and training courses for its water treatment technologies and products.
TDK Corporation, established in 1935, is a manufacturer of electronic solutions for the smart society based in Tokyo, Japan. The company is a part of the TDK Group, which has over 250 locations in more than 30 countries worldwide and employs over 103,000 people. They offer a wide range of products, including sensors, power supplies, and magnetic application products. The robotics industry is evolving at a rapid pace, and they are now offering , a robot development platform equipped with a variety of sensors essential to the accurate operation of robots, enabling more efficiency across a wide range of robot development.
Topens, established in 1998 and based in the United States, is a manufacturer of automatic gate openers and related components. The company’s products include swing and sliding automatic gate openers for commercial and industrial facilities, as well as solar-powered gate openers for efficient home operations. It also provides related accessories, such as keypads and safety sensors, as well as installation and lifetime technical support services for customers needing additional assistance. The company's products are used in private residences, commercial facilities, and industrial compounds.
Andritz AG was initially founded as a much smaller company back in 1852 as an iron foundry, but today the company is a manufacturer and supplier of a wide range of industrial machinery, chemicals, fuels, and textiles, among many more. The company's product portfolio includes over 20 core areas: pulp and paper, metals, cyber security, feeds, and biofuels. Examples include decanter centrifuges, mechanical separation extractors, contact and paddle dryers, and batch helix dryers used in the environment, chemicals, food and beverage, and mining industries. Secondary services include the supply of spare parts, rentals, process consulting, and on-site repairs and upgrades.
Japan Chemical Engineering & Machinery Co., Ltd., a manufacturer of chemical machinery and equipment, established in 1938, and based in Osaka, Japan. The company offers equipments for distillation, reaction, cultivation, and fermentation. It also manufactures Class 1 pressure vessels and other high-pressure equipment to which the high-pressure gas control law of is applicable. Its products find application in diverse industries, including chemical, food, pharmaceutical, and industrial machinery. It has obtained ISO 9001:2008 certification and a Manufacture License for Special Equipment from the People's Republic of China.
JGC Holdings Corporation, founded in 1928 and based in Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa, Japan, operates as an Engineering, Procurement, Construction (EPC) service supplier for various plants and facilities. Centered on the two business segments of the EPC business targeting an extensive business field, and functional materials manufacturing propped up by unique technologies, the company operates businesses in a several regions throughout the world. It has developed proprietary process and unit operation technologies widely applied in energy and industrial plants. Some of its technologies include the Supercritical Water Cracking (SCWC) technology and the Methane Rich Gas Process Technology (MRG)3.
Asahi Kasei Corporation, founded in 1931 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a manufacturer specializing in chemicals and materials science. Its diverse product portfolio spans various industries, including polystyrene and Saran Wrap plastics, acrylonitrile for acrylic fiber production, construction materials, medical devices, and electronics. The company has a history of notable recognition, receiving The Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2019 for the development of lithium-ion batteries. Its products plays a pivotal role in advancing materials and technologies across multiple sectors, contributing in plastics, healthcare, construction, and electronics.
Evonik Industries AG, established in 2007 as a result of RAG-Stiftung's (RAG-Foundation) restructuring, is a chemical manufacturer based in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. With five distinct divisions—nutrition and care, smart materials, specialty additives, performance materials, and technology and infrastructure—the company offers a range of products serving various industries. These products include additives for heat-resistant coatings, industrial lubricants, and polymer dispersions. Adhesive dispersions, catalysts for solvents, and crosslinker products, are also available. Further offerings include polymers as well as epoxy curing agents, modifiers, and silica for adhesives and sealants. These solutions have applications across industries like agriculture, automotive, construction, and oil and gas.
Muromachi Chemicals Inc., founded in 1917 and headquartered in Fukuoka, Japan, is a manufacturer and supplier of pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and health foods. The company holds licenses for pharmaceutical manufacturing and sales, ensuring the quality and safety of pharmaceutical raw materials, including APIs, intermediates, and additives. Additionally, it provides services for intermediate and API development, as well as the synthesis of labeled compounds for pharmaceutical and agricultural applications. Furthermore, the company offers customized water treatment systems, covering both water purification and wastewater treatment, to meet the specific needs of its customers.
X-Flow (the international membrane brand of Pentair), established in 1984 and headquartered in Minneapolis, United States, is a water treatment membrane developer and manufacturer. The company offers a range of membrane elements for the production of process water and potable water from surface water, large-scale drinking water production, and pre-treatment of large SWRO plants using technologies including tight ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis. These products are used in various industries, including pharmaceutical production, municipal water supply, and healthcare. The company also offers full-original equipment and original design manufacturing services.
SPX Flow, established in 1912, is a manufacturer of industrial machinery to solve processing challenges based in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company manufactures various machinery such as mixers, pumps, valves, homogenizers, and heat exchangers. The machinery is used in nutrition, health, mining, construction, and chemical industries. The company provides services such as designing, engineering, and installing turnkey process units or full-scale plants. The SPX Flow brands include Anhydro, Bran+Luebbe, Gerstenberg Schrӧder, Pneumatic Products and Seital Separation.
Membrane Solutions, founded in 2006 at Washington, USA is a manufacturer and seller of membrane filtration solutions for filtration, separation as well as purification. The company has offices in Seattle, Shanghai and produces advanced membrane filtration products through its core membrane production technology. The products comprise microfiltration membrane, ultrafiltration membrane, nanofiltration membranes and RO membranes. They are made using PES, PVDF, PTFE & Nylon materials. The products find applications in semiconductors, medicine, genetic laboratories and many other microfiltration required uses. They are used for chromatographic sample pretreatment, biological filtration in labs, microbial limit detection and also in household water purification.
SLB was founded in 1926 and is a manufacturer of oil products and equipments based in Houston, Texas, United States. The company manufactures various products such as geopolymer cement-free system, nested multistage compact wellhead, 3D-printed armor, dual-string barrier evaluation, and autonomous directional drilling. The products are used and applied in oil drilling industry. The company has obtained the ISO 14001 certificate in 2020 and complied to HAZWOPER standards for hazardous waste management.
Kurita Water Industries Ltd. is a Japanese manufacturer and distributor of water treatment chemicals and systems that was founded in 1949 in Nakano-ku, Tokyo. The company’s product lineup includes various chemicals as well as complete facilities systems for water treatment. These include high-polymer coagulants for wastewater sludge reduction, deoxidants that reduce corrosion or scaling in boiler rooms, and detergents that remove calcium carbonate scale and slime without stopping the operation of air conditioners or refrigerators. The company also offers custom water treatment systems for drinking water or industrial processing purposes.
UBE Corporation, established in 1897, is a Japanese manufacturer and supplier of chemical and machinery solutions, headquartered in Minato City, Tokyo and Ube, Yamaguchi. The company offers a range of chemicals for various industries and daily applications including electrolytes and separators for lithium-ion batteries and nylon resins for engineering plastics. UBE also offers gas separation membranes, polybutadiene rubber, and fine chemical products. The company's subsidiary, UBE MACHINERY CORPORATION, Ltd., supplies various machinery, including die-casting and extrusion machines, injection molding machines, and industrial machines, like ceramic machines and water screening equipment. These products find applications in various industries, including automobile and energy.
Omnia Della Toffola SpA is based in Signoressa di Trevignano, Italy, and is a manufacturer and supplier of automation technologies established in 2023 after the merger of DT Holding and Bertolaso. The company specializes in automation products for the wine and beverage industry. Its products include bottling lines, distillation plants for producing spirits, and cross-flow filtration system for removing impurities in wine and other beverages. The company also offers installation, engineering, and training services for clients needing additional support.
Stilmas USA is a manufacturer of clean water technology products established in 2021 and located in Hauppauge, New York, USA. The company’s products include pure steam generation equipment for sterilizing product-contact components in pharmaceutical applications, and water for injection (WFI) equipment for parenteral drug production or other life science applications. It also offers custom storage and distribution systems for providing water to client-specified locations or facilities. The company mainly serves clients in the pharmaceutical, life sciences, and chemical processing industries.
Enviro Chemie GmbH, established in 1976 and headquartered in Roßdorf, Hessen, Germany, is a wastewater treatment plant and related technology designer, manufacturer, and supplier. The company primarily provides planning, design, and construction of tailored water treatment plants, supplied with full operational and maintenance services. It also supplies tested and proven water treatment chemicals as well as developing custom in-house formulations. The company's completed projects include an onsite anaerobic digestion plant for both My Fresh's food production facility and Glendullan's distillery to treat whisky co-products.
Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. was established in 1940 and is based in Allentown, Pennsylvania as a manufacturer and distributor of atmospheric gases. Their product range comprises natural gas liquefaction (LNG) technology and equipment, liquid fuel, epoxy additives, advanced coatings, and adhesives, used in various industrial gas projects, including gasification initiatives that sustainably transform natural resources into syngas for the creation of valuable electricity, fuels, and chemicals. Its applications consist of effluent aeration, atmosphere control, atomic absorption, spectroscopy, annealing, and catalyst regeneration. The Company operates in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, chemicals, and healthcare.
GMM Pfaudler Ltd. is based in Karamsad, Gujarat, India, and is a manufacturer of industrial processing equipment that was originally established as Gujarat Machinery Manufacturers Ltd. 1962 before being acquired by the Pfaudier Group. The company’s product lineup includes laboratory and process glass products such rotary evaporators and distillation units, glass-lined technology products such as lined reactors and pipes, and filtration equipment such as nutsche filters and filter dryers. The company chiefly serves its clients in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing industries.
Lenntech Water Treatment Solutions, established in 1993, is a design and manfacturing company of water treatment solutions serving numerous industries based in the Netherlands. The company has been delivering sustainable solutions for several applications and processes of water treatment, wastewater reuse and membrane separation. They specialized in providing turnkey and customized water purification and membrane separation systems for different industries and applications. With wide range of technologies and extended know-how in all water-related sectors, they provide cost-efficient solutions meeting customers water quality requirements.
REDA SPA, started in 1983 and based in Isola Vicentina, Italy, is a supplier of machinery, automated plants, and complete processing lines for liquid food. It manufactures sterilization, filtration, and separation technologies and has over 10000 square meters of production area. Its product range includes single-stage evaporators, milk skimming machines, and microfiltration machines for ESL milk de-bacterization, and it has over 8,000 installations worldwide. The company also provides spares and a maintenance plan covering the equipment’s life. The company’s sterilization technologies are designed to preserve the characteristics of the raw material, such as flavor, color, and taste preservation.
Ranking as of November 2024
Derivation MethodRank | Company | Click Share |
---|---|---|
1 | Equilibar, LLC |
8.3%
|
2 | Brian Crower Inc. |
6.1%
|
3 | GENERON |
5.0%
|
4 | TDK Corporation. |
4.1%
|
5 | Smith & Loveless Inc. |
3.4%
|
6 | ANDRITZ AG |
3.4%
|
7 | Membrane Solutions |
3.4%
|
8 | SPX Flow |
3.4%
|
9 | GMM Pfaudler |
3.2%
|
10 | SLB |
3.2%
|
Derivation Method
The ranking is calculated based on the click share within the membrane separation page as of November 2024. Click share is defined as the total number of clicks for all companies during the period divided by the number of clicks for each company.Number of Employees
Newly Established Company
Company with a History
*Including some distributors, etc.
*Including some distributors, etc.
Country | Number of Companies | Share (%) |
---|---|---|
United States of America | 5 | 22.7% |
Japan | 5 | 22.7% |
Austria | 3 | 13.6% |
China | 2 | 9.1% |
Germany | 2 | 9.1% |
Italy | 2 | 9.1% |
Netherlands | 1 | 4.5% |
Canada | 1 | 4.5% |
Belgium | 1 | 4.5% |