4.6Membrane Element Removal
As time progresses, the efficiency of the membrane element will be reduced. In general, the salt rejection does not change much until two or three years after installation, when operated on properly pretreated feed water and routine maintenance performed. The per- meate flow rate will begin to decline slightly after one year of operation, but can be extended with diligent flushing and cleaning of the machine. High pH feed water and/or precipitation of hardness can cause premature loss in rejection and even flow rate. The following procedure is to be followed to replace existing membrane elements in the machine.
STEPS
1.Remove the end caps and clamps from all the membrane element housings.
2.Remove all the membrane elements from the membrane element housings in the direction of flow (where possible). If necessary, a membrane element can be removed against the direction of flow.
3.To reinstall replacement membrane elements, see Section 4.5 (Membrane Element Replacement).
NOTE: Follow Membrane Element Specifications (Table 1.3).
NOTE: Do not allow the machine to freeze unless it is totally drained. It must thaw a minimum of 24 hours before starting.
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