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Ultrafiltration Seawater Desalination System

Sigma’s PVDF hollow fiber UF membrane modules feature a 0.02 μm nominal pore diameter for optimal removal of particulates, bacteria, and viruses and provide high mechanical strength and chemical resistance.

When compared to granular filter media, they produce superior water quality and are virtually unaffected by variable raw water quality—all at a cost similar to conventional filtration technology.

View our UF Seawater Desalination System Flyer!

Features of Ultrafiltration (UF) Membrane Filters:

  • Particle and Microorganism Removal: Ultrafiltration is very effective at removing particulate matter, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens from water due to its fine pore size. This makes UF an excellent choice for producing potable water from brackish sources.
  • Pre-treatment for Desalination: In the case of seawater, UF is often used as a pre-treatment step before desalination processes like reverse osmosis (RO). UF helps in reducing the fouling of RO membranes by removing fine particulates and microorganisms, thereby improving their efficiency and extending the lifespan of the RO systems.
  • Reduction of Silt Density Index (SDI): UF is particularly effective in reducing the SDI of water, which is a measure of the fouling potential of water on RO membranes. Lower SDI values indicate cleaner water, which is crucial for preventing clogging and degradation of RO membranes.

 

Applications of PVDF Ultrafiltration (UF) Membrane Systems:

  • Chemical Resistance: PVDF membranes are highly resistant to chemicals, including chlorine and other oxidants. This is particularly important in seawater applications, where membranes may need to withstand aggressive cleaning agents and varying pH levels to remove biofouling and scaling.
  • Mechanical Strength: PVDF membranes are known for their excellent mechanical strength and durability. They can withstand higher pressures and harsh operating conditions, which are common in the treatment of seawater.
  • Thermal Stability: These membranes exhibit good thermal stability, which allows them to operate effectively at higher temperatures without degrading. This can be advantageous in regions where seawater temperatures are naturally higher.
  • Fouling Resistance: P VDF membranes typically have better fouling resistance compared to other polymeric materials. This property is crucial in seawater applications, where the high organic and microbial load can lead to significant membrane fouling.
  • Compatibility with Pre-treatment and Post-treatment Processes: PVDF UF membranes can effectively act as a pre-treatment step for desalination processes such as RO. In addition, by reducing the particulate and microbial load on the RO membranes, they help in extending the lifespan and efficiency of these more sensitive systems.

Contact Sigma Design for Your Ultrafiltration (UF) Membrane Filters

Sigma Design Sigma Design is a leader in full-service project management, with years of experience in the water filtration industry. We have designed and manufactured our prefilter system to ensure that your industrial water filtration system continues to run smoothly and efficiently. For a one-stop experience on your new project, contact us today to get started.