Related Blog: What is Membrane Water Treatment Technology and Why Do We Specialize In It?

Improving Design Concepts

Whether you are talking about low pressure membranes, membrane softening, desalination, or brackish water reverse osmosis, a pilot system can be used to test performance, identify potential problems, and establish optimum solutions. At Harn R/O, we have determined that pilot systems improve the final design and eliminate most installation and operational issues. The result is a faster implementation without delays or costly alternate design modifications once the work begins.

Pilot Systems Must Simulate Full-Scale Conditions

Membrane Treatment Pilot Systems can be small single element test stands or larger systems that more accurately simulate the actual design parameters that will be applied in the full-scale plant. These larger pilot systems do not cost much more to rent or buy than the single element test stands, but the data obtained during the pilot test will be much more accurate and useful. The objective of a pilot system is to generate usable data for a well-developed design, which is why we use pilot systems that most accurately simulate all of the full-scale design parameters. Since the quality of the data is critical to a trouble-free design, the scalability of the pilot system is essential.

Pilot Systems and EPA Regulations

In some designs, the EPA requires water suppliers to conform to the EPA Information Collection Rule. Also, many states have their own requirements to pilot a membrane process prior to full-scale implementation. To accomplish this, pilot systems become an invaluable asset. Pilot studies allow the system optimization of a variety of parameters, including:

• Design Flux and Recovery
• Chemical Dosage
• Cleaning Parameters and Frequency

Harn R/O Systems has more than 40 years of production experience in water treatment systems and membrane filtration – and are specialists in pilot testing. In that time, we have learned to provide our clients with optimized systems that are both cost-efficient and operator-friendly. We have a complete in-house engineering department that can work out the best way to pilot your application and implement your full-scale system, and a reputation for providing first-rate ongoing system support in the field. To find out how partnering with us can lead to long-term profitability and efficiency, please contact us today.