3.0PREPARATION AND START-UP

3.1Pretreatment for Water Purification

All systems will operate most efficiently on filtered water with a pH of less than 6.5 and a Silt Density Index (SDI) of 5 or below. If the machine is operated on higher pH water, other forms of pretreatment may be necessary. A water analysis prior to start-up of the machine is required. To minimize the chances of calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, or other salt precipitation on the membrane, GE Osmonics evaluates each application and water condition and makes specific recommendations to ensure continuity of the membrane membrane element warranty. Data from the water analysis is processed with a computer program analysis to determine if potential problems exist. If the machine is to be run at a different location than was originally intended, a new water analysis is required for warranty consideration and should be sent to GE Osmonics for review and recommendations for operation of the machine.

Before entering the machine, the feed water must be filtered to 5 microns.

Thin-layer composite (TLC) membrane element feed water must not contain the following chemicals or permanent loss of rejection and/or permeate flow may result:

•free chlorine

•formalin (until after a membrane elements have been run for 24 hours; thereafter, 0.5% formaldehyde may be used as a biocide)

•iodine compounds

•quaternary germicides

•cationic surfactants

•detergents containing non-ionic surfactants

•cleaners not approved by GE Osmonics

CAUTION: A water softener should not regenerate while the machine is running unless safeguards are used to be sure the machine is operated on softened water during regeneration.

3.2Start-Up

NOTE: If your machine is provided with the membrane elements installed in the hous- ings, proceed to 3.2.1. If your machine is provided with the membrane elements in shipping boxes, you must load the membrane elements in the housings prior to starting the machine. For membrane element loading instructions, skip to Section 4.6 (Membrane Element Installation). Upon completion of membrane element installation, return to Step 1 to continue your start-up procedure.

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