Spectra Watermakers CABO 10,000, Installation And Operating Manual

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17
Membrane Cleaning
For normal cleaning, the SC-3 Acid Cleaning Compound is used first, then the SC-2
Alkaline Cleaning Compound, if necessary. If known bio-fouling is present, the SC-2
may be used first. Using warm water if possible, up to 120°F (50ºC) is recommended
as it greatly enhances the ability of the cleaners to do their jobs.
Note: Procedures are the same for the SC-2 and SC-3 cleaners
Warning! The pressure relief valve on the Spectra Pearson Pump must be open
for this procedure or membrane damage may result.
Spectra Cleaning Compounds (SC-2 or SC-3) must be mixed with unchlorinated fresh
water at a ratio of two containers (16oz. Total) of compound to 10 gallons (45L) of
water to have the proper solution. An LB 10,000 system has about 8 gallons of water
inside it (after being flushed with fresh water so with about two gallons of water in a 5
gallon bucket you will use two containers (16oz) either of compound .
SC-2 and SC-3 are never mixed together. Do not use them for storage pickling solution .

There are two types of cleaners: acid and alkaline. The acid cleaner (SC-3) will
remove mineral scaling. The alkaline cleaner (SC-2) is used to remove biological by
-products, oil, and dirt particles that get past the pre-filters. The acid cleaner should
be used first. If the membrane fails to respond to both cleanings, this is an
indication of another problem with the system, or that it is time to replace the
membrane. Contact Spectra Watermakers before removing a membrane.

Membranes need to be cleaned only when feed pressures have risen 10% or
production has dropped 10%
due to fouling , or the product quality degrades.
Causes of fouling are: Biological growth that occurs when the system is left unused
without flushing or pickling, and mineral scaling if the feed water contains
carbonates, sulfates, silicates or other sparingly soluble salts. Colloidal particles
can also clog the membrane. Monitor the product salinity and feed pressure for
higher than normal readings for the conditions. Look for all other causes before
cleaning the membrane, i.e. feed water temperature and salinity, pump speed,
hose restrictions, membrane life can be shortened by unnecessary cleaning.
The Membranes
MEMBRANE MAINTENANCE