AQUAPHOR APRO 1000 LPH, Manual, Page: 66 / 83

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10.6 MEMBRANE CLEANING (CIP)
Membranes can become contaminated after being used over time. There are such pollutants as colloids, biofilms,
and biological matter. These contaminants can be absorbed by membrane, and the membrane system's pipes, conse-
quentially, the system's performance will decrease.
▪
If the membrane gets stuffed with organics (e.g., biofilm formation), the organic cleaning solution with a pH
from 10 to 11 should be used. After the cleaning procedure is complete, check the amount and TDS of the per-
meate to evaluate the cleaning process
’s
effectiveness.
▪
If there is a carbonate scaling problem, the cleaning solution with a lower pH (1.5
–
2) should be used together
with antiscalant dosage adjustment.
a. Prepare a CIP kit consisting of: a tank with 100 liters capacity; a recirculation pump (at least 20 liters per mi-
nute); a 5
μ
m cartridge filter; a flow regulation valve; a pressure gauge; a pH tester.
b. Fill the tank with RO permeate. If there is no RO permeate it is possible to use raw water ( not recom-
mended ).
c. Switch the system to OFF position.
4. Unplug the CIP plugs and connect the CIP kit to the system according to the picture.
5. Start the CIP pump ON and use the regulating valve to set it, so the pressure to no greater than 3 bars.
6. Check the permeate flow so the solution returns to the CIP tank. Add the cleaning solution (with a pH from
1.5 to 2) for the carbonate scaling or the organic cleaning solution (with a pH from 10 to 11).
7. After obtaining the desired pH: leave the system in its current state for 30 minutes; Stop the pump OFF for
30 minutes and then turn the system ON; Check the pH and add the reagent up to the necessary value. It is
recommended to perform 3-5 CIP cycles.