Cleaning; Cleaning Procedure - GE E4H Series Operation And Maintenance Manual

4.4. Cleaning

Cleaning the E-Series machine on a regular basis is vital. Over time, contaminants
build up to form a layer on membrane surfaces, reducing the permeate flow and
quality. If this buildup is not removed from the membrane, it may cause permanent
chemical damage and reduce membrane life. A decrease in permeate flow and/or
rejection of salts, or an increased pressure drop across the machine will indicate
when cleaning is required. Cleaning may be required as often as once every week or
as infrequently as every three months, depending upon the local water supply
conditions. GE Water & Process Technologies recommends cleaning at least once a
quarter to assure good membrane element performance and long membrane
element life.
4.4.1.

CLEANING PROCEDURE

1. With the RO machine running, open the CIP permeate valve. After this valve
has been opened, close the permeate service valve. Permeate water will flow
into the CIP tank. Allow the water to run through the CIP tank and the CIP tank
drain valve for a few minutes to ensure the tank is rinsed thoroughly.
After a minute or so, close the CIP tank drain valve. The CIP tank should begin to
fill with RO permeate. When the CIP tank has filled to the indicated full line, turn
the ON/OFF switch on the RO machine to the OFF position.
2. While the machine is OFF, open the CIP inlet valve. Divert the permeate and
concentrate streams to the cleaning container for recirculation. Ensure that
the pre-filter is clean. A CIP pump (supplied with DLX models only) is
recommended to supply feed pressure into the machine.
3. To circulate the cleaning solution through the machine with suction, remove
the CIP plug. Use a non-collapsible suction hose or pipe to feed the machine.
NOTE: Do not allow the machine pump to operate without concentrate flow. If
pump prime is lost while cleaning on suction, positive inlet pressure is required to
re-prime. No air should be sucked into the inlet line during suction cleaning.
4. Turn the CIP ON/OFF switch to the ON position and recirculate the cleaning
solution through the machine. The cleaning solution should be recycled for
approximately 15 minutes or until the solution temperature reach 85°F (29°C).
If heat rise occurs too quickly, larger volumes of cleaning solution or the use of
a heat exchanger will slow the temperature rise. Turn the CIP off and allow it
to soak for 10 minutes.
NOTE FOR TLC MEMBRANE: It is best to clean at temperatures of 100°F to 110°F
(38°C to 43°C), but lower temperatures will suffice. Do not allow the cleaning
temperature to exceed 110°F (43°C). Allow the cleaning solution to recirculate for
10 minutes. Turn the machine off and allow the membranes to soak in the
solution for approximately 20 minutes.
E4H Series
Operation & Maintenance Manual 20