cations and brackish water applications is the level of the osmotic pressure required to achieve fresh water,” notes Terrasi. Typically, the pressure needed ranges in brackish water treatment from 5 psi to 75 psi, although the majority of brackish appli- cations fall in the 145 psi to 290 psi range. Brackish water is generally a surface- type water and as such can be influenced by such environmental factors as rainfall and humidity. As a result, advises Sammy Farag from AMPAC USA, be mindful of seasonal trends and record findings. “For example, ion levels and bacteria could be higher in the summer months compared to winter months,” says Farag, who adds that salinity, nitrates, iron, silica and bacteria are a few examples of what is common in untreated brackish water. An inability to identify what is in brack- ish water can lead to problems. For (Continued from page 34)
instance, if too much silica is present, pas- sages, membranes and filters can become clogged, hindering the system’s perform- ance. Moreover, if high nitrate levels are present, the system can become contami- nated and foul membranes. “The main thing is — before you touch this application — to make sure that you get a [proper] water analysis so that you don’t get any surprises,” asserts Farag.
Low pressure turbocharger for brackish
water reverse osmosis desalination.
Photographer: Steve Kuzma – ©2009.
“For any reverse osmosis system, the pre- treatment [must be] built accordingly to specs of the water analysis. If it is not, then you will face tremendous difficulties.” And because brackish water can vary in its makeup, different solutions will be needed. For instance, a high level of ion should be answered with greensand filters or oxidation as a pre-treatment. In addition to troubleshooting based on inspection, brackish water also presents operational challenges as well. Pressure ranges can vary and affect the success of properly treating brackish water. Technology to treat brackish water con- tinues to improve and it will be even more crucial in coming years as our dependence on all water sources will continue to grow. Today, brackish water treatment is com- monly being used for a variety of new rea- sons, such as for our military, vegetation and to answer the need of sustainable, smart water usage where practical. WT
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