Cross-Flow vs. Dead-End (In-Line) Filtration
Most of these membranes are run in the "cross-flow" mode (except some applications of MF). In the cross-flow mode (see Figure), not all the feed stream pass through the media. The cross-flow pattern is such that the fluid flows across the surface of the membrane rather than directly down onto the membrane. The high flow rates across the membrane surface decreases the fouling tendency of the membranes.
Compare this with the traditional filtration (the "normal" mode of filtration, which is also known as "in-line" or "dead-end" or "straight-through" filtration) as shown in the Figure.
