The Membranes

The membranes need to be cleaned only when operating pressures have risen 10% due to fouling, or when the product quality degrades. The leading cause of fouling 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 conditions, and from rust. Monitor the product salinity and feed pressure for higher than normal readings for the existing conditions. Other conditions can cause high pressure such as cold feed water or clogged filters. Low product flow is usually due to low volt- age, damaged feed pump or Clark Pump. Look for all other causes before cleaning the membrane. Membrane life can be shortened by excessive cleaning.

There are two types of cleaners: acid and alkaline. The acid cleaner (SC-3) will remove mineral scal- ing. 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 is recommended. The acid cleaner should be used first. If the problem persists after the acid cleaning, do the alkaline cleaning. If the membrane fails to respond to both cleanings, this is an indica- tion 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 it has been left “unpickled” for an extended length of time and biological growth is present, it is recommended that the system be 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 prefil- ters and examine their condition. If the housings are full of smelly discolored water, the system was not properly stored. Install clean prefilters if they were bad. Next, check the membrane. Detach the brine discharge 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 is 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 system can be purged, run normally, and checked for performance. Clean the membranes only if performance is reduced.

Heating the water is preferable. 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 test- ing, or follow the flushing, purging, and testing procedure given in the “Dry Testing with Artificial Ocean” instructions.

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Spectra Watermakers MPC-5000 owner manual Membranes, Membrane Cleaning
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MPC-5000 specifications

The Spectra Watermakers MPC-5000 is a highly efficient water desalination system designed for a variety of applications, including marine, off-grid, and emergency situations. Known for its reliability and innovative technology, the MPC-5000 stands out as one of the leading solutions for producing fresh water from saltwater.

One of the main features of the MPC-5000 is its impressive production capacity. Capable of producing up to 5,000 gallons of fresh water per day, this system is well-suited for larger vessels or facilities with significant water needs. This robust output makes it an ideal choice for yachts, research vessels, and even small communities in remote areas.

The MPC-5000 utilizes advanced reverse osmosis technology, a process that efficiently separates salt and impurities from seawater. This technique not only ensures high-quality drinking water but also operates at lower energy consumption compared to traditional desalination methods. By employing a state-of-the-art energy recovery device, the MPC-5000 maximizes energy efficiency, significantly reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

In terms of build quality, the MPC-5000 is constructed with marine-grade materials to withstand harsh conditions, making it durable and reliable for long-term use. Its compact design allows easy installation on various platforms, and the system can be operated either through AC or DC power sources, providing flexibility for diverse applications.

The onboard controls of the MPC-5000 are user-friendly, featuring a digital display that provides real-time data on system performance, water production rates, and maintenance alerts. This intuitive interface simplifies operation and monitoring, ensuring users can quickly identify and address any issues.

Another noteworthy characteristic is its low maintenance requirement. The MPC-5000 is designed for easy serviceability, allowing users to conduct routine maintenance with minimal downtime. The integrated filtration system and user-replaceable membrane further enhance its appeal, offering convenience without sacrificing performance.

In conclusion, the Spectra Watermakers MPC-5000 is a standout solution in the water desalination market. With its impressive production capacity, advanced technology, durable construction, and user-friendly design, it meets the water needs of various users while ensuring efficient and reliable operation. Whether for marine use, emergencies, or off-grid living, the MPC-5000 represents a smart investment in sustainable water sourcing.
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