Membranes, Membrane Cleaning | Spectra Watermakers Newport 400

The Membranes

•The membranes need to be cleaned only when operating pressures have risen more than 10% or the product quality degrades. The leading cause of fouling in marine use is from biological growth that occurs when the system is left unused without flushing or pickling. Fouling from mineral scaling can happen during operation under certain sea water condi- tions, and from rust. Monitor the product salinity and feed pressure bar graphs for higher than normal readings for the conditions. Other conditions can cause high pressure such as cold feed water or clogged filters. Low product flow is usually due to low voltage, damaged feed pump or Clark pump. Look for all other causes before cleaning the membrane. Mem- brane life can be shortened by excessive cleaning.

•There are two types of cleaners: acid and alkaline. The acid cleaner (SC-3) will remove min- eral scaling. The alkaline cleaner (SC-2) is used to remove biological by-products, oil, and dirt particles that get past the prefilters. If membrane performance is reduced and they have not been pickled recently, cleaning with both chemicals is recommended. The acid cleaner should be used first. If the membrane fails to respond to both cleanings, this is an indication of another problem with the system, or that it is time to replace the membrane. Contact Spectra Watermakers before removing a membrane.

Membrane Cleaning

For normal cleaning, the SC-3 Acid Cleaning Compound is used first, then the SC-2 Alkaline Cleaning Compound. If known bio-fouling is present, the SC-2 may be used first. Using hot water if possible, up to 120° (45C) is recommended as it greatly enhances the ability of the cleaners to do their jobs.

If the history of the system is unknown or has been left “unpickled” for an extended length of time and biological growth is present, it is recommended that the system is cleaned with SC-2, using an alternate source of unchlorinated fresh water before the system is run under pressure. A simple test can be performed to see if biological growth has occurred. Before running the system, remove the prefilters and examine their condition If the housings are full of smelly dis- colored water, the system was not properly stored. Install clean prefilters if they were bad. Next check the membrane. Attach the brine discharge service hose and lead to a bucket. Open the pressure relief valve one turn, and manually run the system for 30 seconds. Examine the brine water: if it’s discolored and smells bad, perform an SC-2 cleaning with an alternate source of unchlorinated water before running the system pressurized. If the brine is fairly clean, the sys- tem can be purged, run normally, and checked for performance. Clean the membranes only if performance is reduced.

Heating the water is preferable. One way to do this is to find a camp stove and use a large stainless steel pot to heat the solution in. The cleaning solution throughout the system will heat as it circulates in and out of the pot. An alternative is to heat the one or two gallons of initial water to 120° on the main stove before mixing in the cleaner and circulating it into the system. Periodically stop and reheat the solution.

Perform the cleaning procedures while the ship is in acceptable sea water for purging and testing.

Newport 400 specifications

The Spectra Watermakers Newport 400 is a state-of-the-art desalination system designed for yachts and boats seeking reliable and efficient freshwater production. This innovative watermaker is known for its compact design, high performance, and user-friendly features. With the ability to produce up to 400 gallons of freshwater per day, the Newport 400 is ideal for extended cruising, offshore adventures, or as a backup water supply.

One of the standout features of the Newport 400 is its patented Spectra Reverse Osmosis technology. This advanced system harnesses the power of reverse osmosis to remove salt and impurities from seawater, ensuring the production of clean and safe drinking water. The Newport 400 operates with exceptional energy efficiency, requiring significantly less power compared to traditional watermakers. This is particularly beneficial for boats relying on limited energy sources like solar panels or generators.

The Newport 400 is engineered for ease of operation and maintenance with a user-friendly control panel. Operators can easily monitor key parameters such as water output, pressure, and system status. The intuitive interface makes it simple to adjust settings and troubleshoot potential issues. Additionally, the system is constructed from high-quality corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring durability and longevity in harsh marine environments.

An impressive characteristic of the Spectra Newport 400 is its ultra-quiet operation. This watermaker is designed to minimize noise, making it perfect for use in the close quarters of a yacht without disturbing the peace on board. The integration of advanced technologies further enhances its performance, including a sophisticated water pre-filtration system that reduces the risk of membrane fouling.

The Newport 400 is also designed with versatility in mind. It can be easily integrated into various onboard systems, allowing for simple installation and operation. Its compact size means it can fit into tight spaces on smaller vessels without sacrificing performance.

In summary, the Spectra Watermakers Newport 400 is a reliable, efficient, and quiet solution for generating freshwater in a marine environment. Its advanced reverse osmosis technology, ease of use, and robust construction make it an ideal choice for boaters seeking independence from shore-based water sources. Whether for leisurely cruising or serious ocean voyaging, the Newport 400 stands out as a top-tier watermaker for modern maritime adventures.