The disposal of concentrate from RO systems presents challenges and typical methods include deep well injection, surface discharge, or sanitary sewer. The volume of water generated or the high salinity impinge on the economic viability of these methods. One accepted method of reducing the volume discharged is to apply additional membrane treatment ...

This powerpoint addresses water chemistry and chemical properties that can be used to improve pretreatment and membrane efficiency. An example of a functioning system in Puerto Rico is discussed....

Why backwashing and/or air scrubbing (scouring) alone is not always effective and efficient in cleaning Microfiltration (MF) and Ultrafiltration (UF) membranes. How membrane types and material influence chemicals and procedures. Intermittent chemical enhanced backwash (CEB) can extend time between rigorous clean in place (CIP) requirements. The a...

This presentation provides an overview of chemical applications in pre and post cleaning of membrane systems. It addresses scaling and other critical membrane maintenance issues and provides criteria for when to clean the membranes as well as valuable tips for membrane cleaning procedures....

This PowerPoint presentation discusses why pretreatment is needed at membrane facilities and what can be used to reduce fouling and scaling....

Membrane system design is a dynamic process. Systems that were designed 20, 15, even 10 years ago are often quaint by today's standards. Membrane manufacturers have developed new technologies that allow for higher recovery. Water plants have become more conscious over the years of trying to eek out every drop of water possible. And the industry has...

This presentation provides an overview of low pressure membrane pilot testing. It describes what pilot testing is, and what types of factors including: goals, duration, protocol, performance monitoring and data analysis should be considered. Significance of determining optimal operating conditions and establishing backwash frequency, duration and...

An overview of membrane process pretreatment processes is offered. Most importantly, the purpose of pretreatment is defined to provide a proper feed water to the membranes. Determination of pretreatment requirements is reviewed which then allows for the ultimate selection of the pretreatment processes to be employed....

There are multiple fouling mechanisms in membrane systems including suspendid solids, scaling, organic, and microbiological. It is imperative to fully understand incoming water chemistry to determine potential fouling mechnisms. In RO/NF systems, organic fouling and inorganic scaling are the most common and troublesome. Keys to successful syste...

Destructive membrane autopsies are a highly effective tool for troubleshooting membrane systems. Key parts of an autopsy include pre-testing, visual inspection, and foulant identification. Foulant analysis includes numerous tests that can properly identify main constituents found on the membrane surface. Based on autopsy findings, system changes...

The are numerous types of fouling mechanisms in membrane systems that often require specific cleaning procedures to remove. Both mechanical and chemical cleaning methods can be utilized to restore membrane performance. The type of cleaning method required often depends on the type of fouling experienced. General cleaning procedures and recommend...

Discusses the purpose of piloting along with options for contracting pilot studies, plus the limitations of pilot studies....

This presentation from a preconference workshop in 2014 for Back to Basics on membrane technology discusses reverse osmosis plant troubleshooting, fouling and cleaning....

The presentation will focus on the importance of accurate data collection, and the analysis of the operating data to provide support in optimizing the operation of membrane treatment systems. Beyond simple data collection, how can the data be used to provide insight into the effectiveness of current operations, and point to potential improvements. ...