Troubleshooting Guides - Reverse Osmosis Chemicals International have compiled a series of troubleshooting guides for the operation of reverse osmosis plant systems. Each article deals with some of the more common problems and failures associated with the operation of reverse osmosis systems. Subjects covered include common failures to reverse osmosis systems, replacement of RO membrane elements, O-ring replacement, probing, profiling an RO array and shimming. To review a guide please select the required document link.

Common reverse osmosis system failures

Review the most common failures affecting reverse osmosis systems, their effects and recommended monitoring practices. Issues covered include failure of scale inhibitors, ineffective sanitization, excess iron content, high organic content, overdosing of coagulants, acid dosing ... common system failures >>

Replacing membrane elements

Occasionally, it is necessary to replace the reverse osmosis membrane elements of a system. This can be determined following troubleshooting and other remedial actions. As with replacing O-Rings, the reverse osmosis system should be shut down and drained. Prior to installation, the new element ...  replacing membrane elements >>

Replacing O-rings

Movement of the spiral wound reverse osmosis membrane elements within their pressure vessel can commonly cause abrasion and failure of the O-Rings that seal the inter-connector to the element permeate tube. A sudden increase in permeate conductivity, not accompanied with a noticeable increase in permeate flow rate could indicate  ... replacing o-rings >>

Probing

Data probing is a technique used to help identify problems affecting reverse osmosis systems. Once profiling has isolated a salt rejection problem to a particular pressure vessel, or set of vessels, probing can be used to further isolate the problem. Probing involves inserting flexible tubing through one of the vessel permeate connections as a means of diverting the permeate from a specific area within the elements. This water is then tested for conductivity ... probing >>

Profiling an array

When problems arise with a reverse osmosis system, the ability to isolate the problem to a particular location within the system provides valuable information as to the precise nature of the problem. This will help to determine the remedial action which may include cleaning, O-ring replacement, RO membrane element replacement ... profiling an array >>

Shimming

It is normal to have some movement of the RO membrane elements within their pressure vessel housings. This occurs because the pressure drop across the elements can cause them to compress. Fouling or high flow rates can also result in significant movement, mostly when the reverse osmosis system starts-up. When it shuts down, the elements  ... shimming >>

Technical support and advice

Reverse Osmosis Chemicals International work closely with a diverse range of global organisations, intelligently combining advanced treatment technologies with practical solutions to resolve complex issues. If you have a project you would like to discuss, or you require technical support and assistance; or if you simply have a question about our reverse osmosis technology solutions please contact one of our specialist advisors using our Technical Support page or call us on +44 (0) 330 223 31 31.