The fluid flow pattern, the regeneration method and the regeneration cycle of crossflow microfiltration processes were optimised experimentally using tubular ceramic membranes to provide guidance far the design of an efficient membrane holder structure and technology for crossflow microfiltration. The results show that the outer helical flow pattern, combined with the regeneration method of backshock with compressed gas, can enhance the performance of crossflow microfiltration, i.e. the concentration polarisation and the membrane fouling in the crossflow microfiltration can be controlled effectively. Furthermore, the permeate flux remains stable for a long period of time with a shout backshock cycle.