Reverse Osmosis (RO) Industry Services Overview
Cost-effective desalination of water requires a low maintenance feedwater source of adequate quantity and a predictable quality consistent with design features. The result is less expensive plant design and maintenance, less frequent equipment replacement, and more reliable operation.
Major problems can occur at membrane treatment plants due to feedwater supply issues. Reduction in membrane efficiency and membrane damage often result from unpredicted changes in feedwater quality and exposure of membranes to foulants.
Beach Wells and Intake Systems
Groundwater sources are preferred for developing clean feedwater to supply a Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant. Many feedwater problems are caused by improperly constructed wells. ENTRIX is a recognized authority on well construction for RO water supplies and often contracted by other engineering firms due to improper well design, required repairs, rehabilitation, and replacement of wells, or when other complex issues arise. Our company has pioneered predictive modeling of reverse osmosis feedwater sources accurately, predicting long-term changes in water quality of brackish wells.
Horizontal wells are an excellent alternative for an intake system to supply a seawater RO plant. Such wells can be constructed on the beach to provide clean filtered water that is protected from typical sources of contamination that affect conventional intakes. ENTRIX has extensive experience in the construction of horizontal wells.
Injection Well Drilling
ENTRIX, in association with a highly experienced drilling company, provides turn-key well drilling at costs. While providing turn-key services, team members work with owners to ensure project success to meet both regulatory and operational requirements. This synergistic program eliminates disputes between consultant, contractor, and owner.
Concentrate Disposal Considerations
The membrane treatment process results in a stream of concentrate reject water. Disposal of the concentrate is a problematic issue affecting the viability of many RO projects.
It is now common for the concentrate disposal system to make up a significant portion of the total project cost. ENTRIX is experienced in the development of the various types of concentrate disposal systems, including injection wells, surface water discharge, and land application.
Surface water discharge is often difficult to permit but may provide the most reasonable alternative for small coastal facilities.
Land application is often the most cost-effective disposal method. However, regulatory limitations on the quality of the water disposed and that of the receiving groundwater result in less permittable sites.
Construction of injection wells for concentrate disposal is a viable alternative in many areas; however, numerous technical and regulatory issues usually need to be addressed.
Permitting each type of these disposal systems involves dealing with complex issues and regulations. ENTRIX has successfully permitted and constructed many such disposal systems. The final disposal choice must be made based on specific site characteristics and client needs.