Microfiltration relies upon a mechanical retention mechanism instead of probability of solids capture. The high efficiency of the microfiltration system as a solids liquid separation device assures regulatory compliance despite variations in feed water quality. Conditioning of the feed to meet water quality variations is minimal. Microfiltration systems can provide a distinctive double barrier approach to improve microbiological quality aspects through the removal of fecal bacteria and cysts. System performance can be routinely monitored by a pressure of "Membrane Test" to assure system integrity. large scale water production, using microfiltration systems, is now possible with the use of innovated backwash and operating regimes in combination with efficient modular designs. These systems can be cost competitive with conventional technologies while offering the intrinsic qualitative advantages of microporous membrane filtration.