The Art and Science of Cleaning RO and NF Systems

Clean in Place (CIP, cleaning) is an integral part of maintaining reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) systems. Over time, organic and inorganic foulants present in the feed water will build up on the membranes surface. These foulants reduce the systems efficiency and can lead to mechanical damage of the membrane surface. Normalizing operating data by stage to standard conditions will help identify the foulant type and direct cleaning efforts to the required location(s). Efficient and effective cleanings can restore the systems performance to near new conditions. Prior to cleaning it is important to formulate a plan on which trains and stages need cleaning, what chemicals are necessary, what chemical concentration is required, what pH will be targeted, the required cleaning solution water temperature, and how long the chemicals need to be in contact with the foulant. In addition, it is important to review supporting documents including safety data sheets (SDS) and standard operating procedures (SOP). This presentation will cover topics such as when to clean, how to clean, and why to clean an RO/NF system. It will also include information on how to determine your foulant type, why normalizing your data is important, what cleaning solution to consider, and how to avoid damaging your membrane while cleaning. At the conclusion of the presentation, attendees will have the knowledge necessary to formulate a RO/NF cleaning strateg

This presentation is available to AMTA Members only.