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NEXT BIG THING
Sane in the membrane OrangeBoat’s Jantje Johnson on why specialised technical support for membrane water treatment systems is critical.
M Jantje Johnson is the founding partner of OrangeBoat – a provider of technical service for membrane based water treatment systems to membrane manufacturers, OEMs, engineering companies and end-users. She has over 25 years of experience in membranes, chemicals, system design and operation.
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embrane-based water treatment systems are increasingly favored for their efficiency and reliability, but they also introduce some unique technical challenges in management, development and installation. Appropriate expertise is at a premium and often in short supply. Mobilising a unique blend of know-how to deliver expert membrane and application support when it is needed is critical for the successful operation of your membrane system. Where to get that expertise when you need it can be a challenge. Often companies offering a product simply want to sell you their products and are not interested in providing service or know-how to solve your problem. We provide independent technical support and advice about membrane-based water treatment systems available to engineering companies, equipment suppliers, membrane manufacturers and operators. Membrane systems may experience performance problems that affect cost-effectiveness and reliability. Having the expertise available to take care of operational problems is important. However, before your project begins it is important to evaluate the overall process to ensure the unit operations work well together. Optimisation starts right at the beginning of the project, in choosing the best design considerations for the job. OrangeBoat believes there are four key factors to consider for a successful operation. These are design, execution, commissioning and training.
With regard to design, winning the project with a well thought out design is important for trouble-free operation. Being the successful bidder is one thing; evaluation of different process schemes should include an understanding of the common pitfalls in design and operation. Understanding the impact of pre-treatment on the performance of the reverse osmosis system can provide a basis for different design options for your client. In terms of execution, once you win the project, be sure to solicit third party advice on membrane design and operation. Eliminating defects during the execution phase can prevent costly mistakes later on. On to the next phase, many mistakes are made during the commissioning phase of the project. Many times contractors are focused on getting pumps and valves operating and often overlook the membrane system that can lead to irreversible membrane damage. Having an advisor on site, looking after the membrane system, can save money over the long run. And fi nally training; well-trained operators and staff can ensure a successful project during the design, execution and operation phase of your project. Keep your team up-to-date by investing in training. While you may have membrane experts on your staff they may not be available when you need it or where you need it. Working with a specialised service provider can help you close short-term gaps in technical support and solve specific performance problems in membrane-based water treatment systems. „
16/09/2010 10:32