Test of Prototype Reverse Osmosis Energy Recovery Device and Correction of Its Deficiencies

摘要

The objective of reducing the energy requirements of desalination has become increasingly important as the cost of energy has been rising in recent years. There are two basic methods for recovering the hydraulic energy: centrifugal devices, such as hydroturbine and pelton wheels, and positive displacement devices. A prototype energy recovery device was refurbished and integrated with a reverse osmosis simulator for further testing. A valve test stand was also constructed and several valves were tested. During testing there were continuing reliability problems with the many valves in the system. It appears that the use of many separate components creates an excessively complicated system with too many potential failure points.