KOVALUS Separation Solutions, safeguarding water with advanced membrane and ion exchange technologies

Formerly known as Koch Separation Solutions, KOVALUS Separation Solutions is a global leader in advanced membrane-based water and wastewater treatment solutions. Specializing in ultrafiltration, microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and MBRs; KOVALUS delivers high-performance systems designed to handle complex water challenges across industrial and municipal applications.

<<At KOVALUS, our strength lies in developing robust membrane technologies that deliver precise separation, high water recovery, and reliable contaminant removal,>> explains Umberto Castagna, PURON Domain Leader for Europe, Middle East and Africa. Whether it’s compact modular systems or large-scale custom installations, our solutions are designed to ensure consistent water quality while keeping operations efficient and downtime low. With decades of innovation and a proven track record worldwide, we support our clients end-to-end — from design and engineering to commissioning and long-term service — We have 5 offices in Europe, including one in Italy, where we have a full team of highly skilled engineers that can support in every aspect our valued clients.>>

Why is water and wastewater treatment such a critical issue today for industries and municipalities
<<Water is one of the most valuable resources of our time – and it is under immense pressure. Both industries and municipalities face the challenge of providing clean water, treating wastewater efficiently, and at the same time meeting environmental regulations while controlling costs. Our solutions help to master these complex demands with high operational reliability and sustainability. Italy is under pressure as well, many regions in the south are facing lack of water resources just like some in the north. KSS can supply advanced technologies like UF and MBR to reduce, reuse and recycle water for the industry and the municipalities.>>

 

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What makes KOVALUS Separation Solutions a strong partner in this field?
<<We provide a holistic approach: from process and equipment design to manufacturing, installation, commissioning and after sale services (so called KSS assist), we support our customers throughout the entire journey. With more than 60 years of expertise and over 10,000 installations worldwide, we deliver tailored systems that combine efficiency, reliability, and regulatory compliance.>>

Which technologies do you rely on to achieve these goals?
<<Our portfolio covers a wide range of membrane and separation technologies, including ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, and ion exchange. In this specific exhibition, one highlight is our PURON® membrane product family, which offer high throughput, low energy consumption, and long service life. In addition, our Eco-Tec Recoflo® systems deliver softened or ultra-pure water in a compact, efficient, and resource-saving way.>>

PURON PULSION® Installation in one of the biggest wastewater treatment plants in Northern Europe.

Your PURON® MBR membranes are often highlighted as a breakthrough in wastewater treatment. Can you explain what makes them so unique?
<<The PURON® MBR membrane design uses a patented single-header configuration with free-floating  fiber tips. This prevents clogging and ensures long-term reliability, even under challenging conditions. Furthermore, our PURON PULSION® MBR modules include a big-bubble aeration technology: these MBRs creates a geyser-like bubble effect that reduces energy consumption by up to 40% while boosting throughput. The reinforced and nearly unbreakable PURON hollow  fibers further extend membrane life, making PURON a robust, efficient, and sustainable choice for wastewater treatment. Proof of the high performance are also present in Italy where PURON® membranes have been installed in several industries (food and beverage, oil and gas, leachate and more) as well as large municipal MBRs and drinking water plants.>>

 

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The structure of a membrane seems to play a key role in performance. What makes your PURON® membrane morphology stand out?
<<That’s correct – membrane morphology is critical to long-term performance. Our PURON® membranes feature a unique sponge-like morphology with a thick, uniform layer that ensures solids retention over time. This design offers a smooth surface that resists fouling and is easy to clean, while the strong bond between the membrane and its braid minimize the risk of delamination. The result is a robust and reliable membrane that delivers consistent water quality and total suspended solids (TSS) removal – even in demanding applications.>>

PURON® Fibers

What can visitors expect from you at Ecomondo?
<<At the exhibition, we want to showcase how innovative separation technologies are shaping the future of water and wastewater treatment. In hall 8D booth 308 we will present solutions that enable the recovery of valuable resources,  minimize waste, and make water treatment processes more sustainable and efficient. The team at the booth will be able to discuss commercial and technical details with a variety of stakeholders such as project consultants, OEMs, and end users.>>

Where do you see the future of water treatment heading?
<<We believe the future lies in intelligent, connected, and resource-efficient systems. Wastewater should no longer be viewed as a “by-product”, but as a valuable raw material. With our technologies, we support companies worldwide in successfully driving this transition by increasing, for example, the recovery of drinking water systems and the quality of the effluent to be suitable for irrigation or reuse. We invite all visitors to meet us at Ecomondo to learn more about our innovative water and wastewater solutions. Together, we can shape a sustainable future for smart water & wastewater management.>>

1. PURON® Module
2. PURON® Module during Installation
 

Article written by Maria Carla Rota

This blog is a joint project by Ecomondo and Renewable Matter