Modular Wastewater System (MWS)

A Flexible Solution for Modern Wastewater Treatment Challenges

Under AMP8 and associated regulatory requirements, water companies are required to reduce CSO discharges, deliver improved environmental outcomes, and ensure long-term asset resilience. At the same time, planned maintenance to address ageing and defective infrastructure necessitates modular, temporary wastewater storage and treatment solutions to minimise operational disruption.

The Modular Wastewater System (MWS) is a rapidly deployable, energy-efficient solution that mechanically, biologically, and chemically treats wastewater. Developed in 2006, it was originally designed for humanitarian aid, supporting improved sanitation and public health in remote and rural communities with limited infrastructure.

In July 2021, the system was implemented to restore wastewater treatment capacity in the Ahr Valley, Germany, following flood damage to three wastewater treatment plants. It consistently produces safe, hygienic effluent, meeting stringent German regulatory standards while protecting groundwater and the environment. The systems remain in operation during the planned rebuild programme.

These origins shaped the system’s core strengths: fast installation, reliable pathogen reduction, and the ability to operate effectively in challenging environments. Today, the MWS is a valuable asset for the UK water sector, particularly when treatment facilities must be taken offline.

A Practical Approach to Temporary and Scalable Treatment

The MWS is supplied in kit form, allowing it to be transported and installed in locations where containerised systems may not be suitable. Butek Tanks, part of Butyl Products Ltd, provides both supply and installation services, with a 1,000-population equivalent (PE) unit held in stock for rapid deployment.

Installation can typically be completed within approximately 14 days, depending on site conditions. The system can operate independently or integrate with existing treatment works, providing additional or replacement capacity as required. Its configuration allows capacity to be tailored to specific population or industrial loads, supporting both short-term interventions and longer-term planning.

Performance and Key Capabilities

The MWS treats communal wastewater using energy-efficient biological processes designed to reduce pathogen load and minimise microbiological and chemical risks. Treated effluent can be discharged in accordance with Environment Agency permits, with optional tertiary treatment available where higher standards are required.

• Rapid deployment for planned maintenance and emergency scenarios
• Capacity matched to site-specific requirements
• Energy-efficient operation compared to conventional temporary solutions
• Flexible use for both interim and longer-term applications

How the Treatment Process Works

The system uses aerobic biological treatment, supported by aeration equipment, to break down organic matter and nutrients. Oxygen is introduced into the wastewater to sustain microbial activity and ensure effective treatment.

Core Components

• Air blowers or compressors supplying oxygen to the treatment zone
• Fine bubble diffusers for efficient oxygen distribution
• Optional tertiary processes such as membrane filtration, disinfection, or nutrient polishing

When designed to site-specific requirements, these processes enable compliance with environmental discharge standards.

Supporting Maintenance and Operational Continuity

Maintaining treatment capacity during infrastructure upgrades or repairs is a key challenge for UK water utilities. The MWS provides a reliable solution by ensuring continuity of service when primary assets are offline.

It enables operators to:

• Maintain regulatory compliance during maintenance works
• Provide temporary capacity during upgrades or peak demand
• Reduce reliance on tanker operations, lowering both cost and carbon impact
• Protect customers and the environment from service disruption

Its adaptable, kit-based design also makes it suitable for constrained or difficult-to-access sites.

Meeting the Demands of a Changing Water Sector

The UK water industry faces increasing pressure from population growth, climate-related events, and ageing infrastructure. Flexible treatment solutions are essential to maintaining service reliability while managing costs and environmental impact.

Butyl Products is confident the Modular Wastewater System provides a practical, proven approach to maintaining wastewater treatment continuity wherever it is needed.