Made in USA: Why Smart Cities Choose Domestic MBR Wastewater Systems
In the water treatment industry, supply chain reliability is just as vital as filtration quality. However, for engineers and facility managers, waiting months for imported membrane modules can delay critical infrastructure projects. Consequently, this leaves growing communities at risk.
As a result, A3-USA is changing the narrative. We are the only MBR plant integrator that manufactures the complete plant—including the membrane modules—right here in the United States. Specifically, we design, build, and assemble our systems at our facility in Chinquapin, North Carolina.
Here is why shifting to American-made wastewater systems is the smartest investment for municipalities and industries today.
1. The Strategic Advantage of a USA MBR Supplier
Global shipping is becoming harder to predict. Therefore, relying on overseas suppliers for critical parts introduces major risks regarding lead times and quality control. Furthermore, by partnering with a domestic manufacturer, you align with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act. This is crucial because it ensures compliance for municipal projects that use federal funding.
Additionally, by choosing A3-USA, you gain:
- Supply Chain Security: We build our membrane modules domestically. Thus, components are available exactly when you need them.
- Quality Assurance: Our manufacturing facility in North Carolina follows strict US standards.
- Direct Engineering Support: You get direct access to the team that built your system, rather than a remote sales office.
2. The Engine: MaxFlow™ Rigid Flat Sheet Technology
Not all membranes are created equal. For example, many imported systems use “hollow fiber” technology, which consists of strands that look like spaghetti. Unfortunately, these are prone to breaking and clogging (“ragging”). Moreover, they require frequent and difficult cleaning.
In contrast, A3-USA uses MaxFlow™ rigid flat sheet membranes, which offer clear technical advantages:
- Ultra-Fine Filtration: With a 0.038-micron pore size, our membranes physically block bacteria and viruses.
- Durability: The rigid plate design cannot snap or tangle like hollow fibers.
- Integrated Aeration: Finally, our design keeps solids suspended and scours the membrane surface to prevent fouling.
Learn more about MaxFlow™ Membrane specifications here.
3. Plug-and-Play: Packaged & Containerized Systems
For developers and remote industrial sites, building a massive concrete plant isn’t always possible. Therefore, A3-USA specializes in wastewater treatment plants that are pre-engineered and modular.
Specifically, our containerized MBR systems are ideal for:
- Decentralized Housing Developments: You can avoid the high cost of long sewer trunk lines.
- Remote Work Camps & Resorts: We provide high-quality treatment in tight spaces.
- Industrial Applications: From food processing to paper manufacturing, we handle variable flows with ease.
Most importantly, these systems arrive pre-assembled with all necessary pumps, blowers, and controls. As a result, this greatly reduces installation time.
4. Don’t Forget the Headworks: Protecting Your Investment
A common failure point in wastewater projects is poor pre-treatment. Ultimately, to ensure the long life of your membranes, A3-USA provides robust treatment plant equipment. We specifically design the headworks screening to match the plant’s needs.
Whether you need “pump-to” screens or “in-channel” solutions, we supply the complete train. This includes grit removal and dewatering to ensure your system operates at peak efficiency for decades.
Conclusion: Choose the Leader in American MBR Technology
In summary, do not compromise on quality or wait on international shipping for your critical water infrastructure.
A3-USA is the premier membrane bioreactor supplier in the USA, dedicated to providing robust, efficient, and sustainable solutions. From the MaxFlow™ membranes to the stainless steel tanks, we build it here so you can rely on it everywhere.
Ready to upgrade your treatment capacity? Contact A3-USA today to discuss your project with our American engineering team.
Frequently Asked Questions About A3-USA MBR Systems
Is A3-USA fully compliant with the “Build America, Buy America” (BABA) Act?
Yes. Unlike many competitors who assemble imported parts, A3-USA manufactures our MaxFlow™ membrane modules and assembles our treatment plants at our facility in Chinquapin, North Carolina. Therefore, our systems meet the domestic manufacturing requirements necessary for federally funded municipal infrastructure projects.
How does the MaxFlow™ rigid plate differ from hollow fiber membranes?
Hollow fiber membranes look like strands of spaghetti. Consequently, they are prone to “ragging” (clumping with debris) and breaking. On the other hand, MaxFlow™ rigid plates are solid, flat sheets. They are far more durable, cannot tangle, and are significantly easier to clean. Thus, they result in lower long-term maintenance costs.
Can A3-USA retrofit an existing wastewater plant?
Yes. We frequently provide MBR retrofit membrane modules for facilities that are failing or need to expand capacity without building new tanks. In fact, our engineering team can design custom racks to fit your existing basins. Often, this involves replacing older hollow fiber systems with our more durable plate technology.
What is the lifespan of an A3-USA membrane module?
With proper operation and maintenance, our rigid flat sheet membranes typically last 7 to 10 years or longer. Because they are rigid, they do not suffer from the fatigue and fiber breakage common in other systems. This ensures a better long-term Return on Investment (ROI).
Do you sell directly to developers or only through engineers?
We work with both. For instance, A3-USA supplies packaged MBR systems directly to developers and industrial clients. However, we also partner with civil engineering firms and integrators (like reUse Innovations) to deliver complex municipal projects.