AWWA ACE92186

Filtration processes may be divided into several categories depending on the type and size of substances filtered as follows: particle filtration; microfiltration; ultrafiltration; nanofiltration; hyperfiltration (reverse osmosis); and electrodialysis reversal. Of the above six processes, only particle filtration is not considered a membrane process and is not discussed. The engineering decisions that must be made when designing a membrane plant vary considerably among the five types. The two major considerations affecting design are the operating pressures and the corrosivity of the fluids. This paper briefly discusses design considerations for: materials of construction; membrane module sizing and layout; cartridge filters; pumps and energy recovery devices; flushing and cleaning systems; and instrumentation and controls.