Tested in Asia, GE Endorse New RO Membrane

A new low-fouling reverse-osmosis (RO) desalination membrane for brackish water from industrial processes that is difficult to treat has been introduced by GE. The AG LF series resists degradation from water containing bacteria, colloids and other materials that foul and shorten membrane element life.

GE successfully pilot-tested the new membranes in Asia, where customer experience showed that they required fewer cleaning cycles compared with conventional brackish membranes in tough applications, such as steel production, power plants and plating processes.

GE says the membrane can reduce the time between cleanings by up to 50%, although actual results will vary with specific application conditions. It features a unique coating technology that improves cleaning cycles, reduces pressure and reduces friction on the surface of the membrane, making it resistant to organic fouling.

“Our new low-fouling RO membrane offers higher efficiency with less frequent cleaning cycles, leading to extended life, lower operating pressure and reduced environmental impact. Now offered to our industrial and municipal customers around the world, this new membrane technology specifically addresses tough-to-treat water,” said Yuvbir Singh, general manager, engineered systems water and process technologies for GE Power & Water.