6
Liqui-Cel
®
Membrane Contactors
Cleaning Guidelines
IV. Cleaning Solution Flow Rate and Backpressure Guidelines
It is important to apply a backpressure to the system to ensure that the system is completely full
of cleaning solution before cleaning. During actual cleaning maintaining of backpressure may not
be needed. To increase the cleaning solution backpressure, slowly and partially close the outlet
flow valve. Refer to Table 2 for general guidelines. The flow rates listed in Table 2 are for single
units and should be used only as a guideline. Depending on the nature of the fouling, the flow rate
should be adjusted accordingly.
NOTE:
Shellside = Outside of fiber. Liquid flows on the shellside in typical operation and during typical cleaning.
Lumenside = Inside of fiber. Gas flows on the lumenside in typical operation. Lumenside cleaning is less frequent
but maybe required under some circumstances.
NOTICE
Avoid contact with surfactants/solvents or oxidants (e.g. ozone, chlorine) to the
hydrophobic membrane to prevent wet-out or oxidation.
Filtered, de-chlorinated, and deionized water is recommended for mixing cleaning
solutions. Water containing metals such as Mg, iron, Al, and SiO
2
may precipitate on to
the membrane surface when there is a pH shift in the water.
CAUTION
To reduce the risks associated with damaging the membrane contactor:
For all 2.5x8-inch, 4-inch and 10-inch membrane contactors, gas side pressure should
never exceed liquid side pressure during cleaning.
WARNING
To reduce the risks associated with explosion:
Never exceed maximum temperature and pressure ratings. Detailed temperature and
pressure ratings can be found in the Operating Guide at
If cleaning the shellside of the membrane only, the lumenside should be open to
atmosphere.
To reduce the risks associated with chemical exposure:
Use face protection, protective gloves, and appropriate eye protection when handling
and using all cleaning chemicals.
Ensure any tubing or piping used to circulate the cleaning solution is not blocked,
kinked, frayed, cracked or obstructing flow in any way. Ensure the all tubing and piping
connections are leak-free.
Avoid splashing of chemicals while preparing cleaning solutions or during pumping of
solutions.
Cleaning procedures should be conducted using the minimal temperatures and
pressures required to clean the contactor.
Summary of Contents for MEMBRANA Liqui-Cel
Page 1: ...Cleaning Guidelines ...
