Operation Monitoring of Ultrapure Water Reverse Osmosis Unit

Flow rate, pressure, temperature, and conductivity should all be monitored online. If possible, automatic recording of system flow rates, including those of reverse osmosis feed water, product water, and concentrate, should be implemented. The ratio of these flow rates determines the recovery rate of the reverse osmosis unit; recovery rates that are too high or too low compared to the design values will have adverse consequences for operation. Therefore, ensuring the accuracy of flow monitoring instruments is crucial.

Pressure includes the pressure of reverse osmosis feed water, feed water from each stage, concentrate water, and product water. Under constant pressure and temperature, a decrease in product water flow rate indicates membrane fouling.

Conductivity includes the conductivity of both reverse osmosis feed water and product water. The conductivity reflects the salinity of the water, thus reflecting changes in product water quality. A decline in product water quality reflects the membrane fouling process or other possible conditions, such as damage to the O-ring seal.