Reverse osmosis technology is becoming more widely adopted due to its unique benefits. However, improper maintenance of reverse osmosis water purification systems can lead to significant issues, especially for users with limited technical expertise. Proper management of such equipment is essential to prevent serious problems and ensure long-term performance.
One important maintenance practice is low-pressure flushing. Regularly flushing the system with a large volume of water at low pressure and slightly acidic pH helps remove contaminants that accumulate on the membrane surface, preserving its efficiency. If the SDI (Silt Density Index) of the feedwater suddenly rises above 5.5, a low-pressure flush should be performed until the SDI returns to an acceptable level before restarting the system.
Another critical aspect is protection during system downtime. Frequent shutdowns are common in many industrial settings, and proper measures must be taken when the system is not in use, whether for short or long periods. Inadequate protection can lead to irreversible damage to the membrane.
For short-term shutdowns (up to 15 days), it's recommended to perform low-pressure flushing every 1–3 days. In practice, if the water temperature exceeds 20°C, stored water in the system can become foul and develop bacteria within three days. Therefore, it's advised to rinse the system every 1–2 days under these conditions. If the temperature is below 20°C, flushing once every three days is sufficient. After each flush, all inlet and outlet valves should be closed to maintain system integrity.
For long-term shutdowns (more than 15 days), a protective solution is necessary. A common formula includes 10% formaldehyde, 20 mg/L isothiazolone, and 1% sodium bisulfite. This solution prevents microbial growth and protects the membrane from degradation during extended inactivity.
Chemical cleaning of reverse osmosis membranes is another essential step. Even under normal operation, membranes can become fouled by inorganic salts, colloids, microorganisms, and metal oxides. These deposits can reduce water production, lower desalination efficiency, increase pressure differentials, and even cause permanent membrane damage. To restore performance, chemical cleaning is required.
Cleaning is typically done every 3 to 12 months. If cleaning is needed more frequently—such as once a month—it indicates that the pretreatment system may need improvement. If cleaning is required every one to three months, it suggests that the operational management of the system needs enhancement. Understanding when and how often to clean helps maintain optimal system performance and extend membrane life.
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