Reverse Osmosis Filters
Reverse osmosis filters are the most effective form of water filters which
render highest level of protection. They are the most expensive and
sophisticated kind of filters. When combined with a pre filter and post
filter, reverse osmosis filter is able to remove most harmful, unhealthy
elements and contaminants from water.
Osmosis: This is the process of diffusion of fluid through a semi
permeable membrane from low solute concentrate solution to high solute
concentrate solution. The concentration of fluid on both sides of membrane
must be equal.
Reverse Osmosis: The whole process of osmosis is stopped and
reversed by applying pressure to the water with higher concentration and
forcing it against the membrane. It has been used for many years, to remove
salt from seawater and make it drinkable.
Working of RO Filters
Firstly the dissolved inorganic solids are
removed from water. The water is pushed through a semi permeable membrane
which allows only the water to pass through, not impurities. Finally these
contaminants are rinsed down the drain.
Basic Components and Functions of a RO Filter System
Basic
components which are common to all RO ( Reverse Osmosis ) systems are :
- Cold water line valve
- Pre filter
- Reverse Osmosis membrane
- Post filter
- Automatic Shut Off Valve (SOV)
- Check Valve
- Flow Restrictor
- Storage Tank
- Faucet
- Drain Line
RO process vs Conventional process :
As comped to other
conventional water treatment processes, reverse osmosis process is far
better. It is the most effective means of removing impurities, like chemical
contaminants, salts, heavy metals such as lead from drinking water. RO
process is highly preferred for removing silica and organics from water
having total dissolved solids of around 200. If it is compared with
distillation process, RO process uses a small part of total energy required.
Also, it doesn't have any high temperature problems, scaling or corrosion.
Reverse Osmosis Filters Usage :
Reverse osmosis filter and its
water is widely applicable in several industrial applications like :
- To remove elements like Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Arsenic (As), Cadmium
(Cd), Chlorine (Cl), Giardia, Pesticides, Salt, Tri-Halo-Methanes,
Sulphates, Cysts, Nitrates etc.
- For water and wastewater purification
- Dialysis
- Food Industry
- Car Washing
- Maple Syrup Production
- Hydrogen production
