MBBR Tank Options

MBBR systems can be supplied in different tank configurations depending on project requirements. Because MBBR is a process rather than a fixed product, the tank is chosen to fit the site — not the other way round.

The MBBR process — biofilm carriers kept in suspension in an aerated (or mixed) tank behind retention screens — does not depend on one particular tank type. This is a deliberate engineering advantage: the same technology can be delivered in a steel tank, a GRP/FRP or plastic tank, a container, or a concrete basin, and it can reuse tankage you already own. It means the solution is not tied to a single tank manufacturer and can be matched to your budget, programme and site constraints.

Available tank configurations

The options below are the common ways an MBBR can be housed. The right choice depends on scale, whether suitable tankage already exists, siting and transport, and whether the need is permanent or temporary. We select and confirm the configuration for each project during the engineering review.

MBBR Tank Configuration Options (selected per project)

ParameterTypical ValueUnitNotes
Steel tankavailable option—Packaged / above-ground installations
GRP / FRP tankavailable option—Corrosion-resistant, lightweight
PE / PP tankavailable option—Smaller / compact units
Containerizedavailable option—Transportable / relocatable
Existing concrete tankavailable option—Reuse via retrofit — subject to survey
New concrete tankavailable option—Larger, purpose-built volumes
Modular tank systemsavailable option—Phased, scalable capacity

Frequently Asked Questions

Which tank type is best for MBBR?
There is no single best type — it depends on the project. Steel, GRP/FRP, PE/PP, containerized and concrete tanks are all used. MBBR systems can be supplied in different tank configurations depending on project requirements, which is confirmed during the engineering review.
Can MBBR reuse an existing tank?
Yes — existing concrete tanks such as aeration basins or redundant clarifiers can often be converted by adding carriers, screens and aeration, subject to a survey of depth, geometry and structural condition.
Does R+F only supply one tank type?
No. Because MBBR is a process, the tank is selected to fit the site rather than the site being fitted to one product — so the solution is not tied to a single tank manufacturer.

Related Pages

Find Your MBBR Solution

Tell us about your wastewater, flow and treatment objectives. We will identify a suitable MBBR configuration and the next engineering step.