WCW26

Description:
 
This presentation compares ultrafiltration/reverse osmosis (UF/RO) and hollow fiber nanofiltration (HFN) systems through a detailed case study using real-world performance data. Key factors such as recovery, water stability, chemical use, footprint, and capital and O&M costs are evaluated against modeled projections. Results highlight each technology’s strengths and limitations in meeting Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines while identifying potential savings in energy, chemical demand, and overall system costs. Attendees will gain practical insights into technology selection, process optimization, and design considerations for future water treatment applications.


Abstract:


Membrane treatment systems play a critical role in ensuring reliable, high-quality drinking water for communities. Selecting the appropriate technology requires careful evaluation of system performance, capital and O&M costs, and operational considerations. With both ultrafiltration/reverse osmosis (UF/RO) and hollow fiber nanofiltration (HFN) technologies available, understanding how each performs under comparable conditions is essential to optimizing plant design and operational performance. 


A detailed case study is provided comparing a full-scale UF/RO system with a hollow fiber nanofiltration installation treating similar water sources. The comparison evaluates key parameters including recovery rates, treated water stability, chemical consumption, operations and maintenance (O&M) costs, capital costs, and system footprint. 
Real performance data is analyzed and compared to modeled projections to evaluate how theoretical expectations align with field results. Findings illustrate the strengths and limitations of each approach in achieving treated water that meets Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines. The results demonstrate a potential of savings in energy and water efficiencies, chemical demand, plant footprint and capital and O&M costs between the two systems. 
This analysis provides operators and engineers with practical insights into technology selection, process optimization, and total cost-of-ownership considerations for future water treatment projects. Insights are provided through comparison of real-world applications of UF/RO and hollow fiber nanofiltration systems, identifying capital and operational considerations and applying field data and modeling to improve future systems design and technology selection.