Printed Spacers: Minimizing Risk While Maximizing Performance
When it comes to reverse osmosis (RO) technology, innovation is often met with cautious curiosity. One question we frequently encounter is whether our use of printed spacers poses any risk to the integrity of the filtration process. At Aqua Membranes, we understand our customers’ concerns and want to assure you that our printed spacers are designed to enhance performance without introducing unnecessary risk. In this article, we’ll explore how printed spacers work, address some common concerns, and ultimately discuss the real risk of not trying something new.
No Change to Membrane Chemistry
One of the main concerns we hear is whether using printed spacers will affect the chemistry of the RO membrane itself. The answer is simple: no. Our printed spacer technology does not alter the membrane’s material, structure, or its ability to reject contaminants.
The membrane remains unchanged and continues to perform at the same level of rejection efficiency it was designed for. Printed spacers focus solely on optimizing the feed channel, the space through which the water flows, rather than changing the chemical properties of the membrane. This means that the membrane’s ability to reject salts, chemicals, and other impurities remains exactly the same, and customers can expect consistent filtration performance.
Optimizing the Feed Channel for Better Performance
So, if the membrane itself isn’t changing, what are we doing? The innovation lies in the feed channel. Traditionally, RO systems use conventional mesh spacers that help create a gap for water to pass through the membranes. While functional, these mesh spacers create turbulence, which can increase energy costs and lead to fouling over time.
Printed spacers, on the other hand, provide a more efficient flow path. By optimizing the geometry of the feed channel, printed spacers reduce pressure drop, minimize fouling, and allow for better water distribution. Check our our Demonstration of that in this video. This leads to longer membrane life, increased water production, and lower energy costs—without affecting the membrane’s ability to filter impurities.
The Benefits Without the Risk
A key takeaway here is that printed spacers allow for enhanced performance without introducing new variables into the chemistry or mechanics of the RO membrane. This is why there’s no additional risk to the integrity of your filtration process.
Our technology has been thoroughly tested and validated to ensure it works with existing RO systems, and it complies with industry standards. In fact, the biggest change you’ll notice is in the form of greater efficiency and reduced operational costs, not in the quality or reliability of the membrane itself.
What’s More Risky: Trying Something New or Staying the Same?
The true risk lies in complacency in the ever-evolving world of water filtration. Sticking to outdated methods means accepting inefficiencies, higher energy consumption, and increased maintenance costs. For example, outdated water mains could cost as much as $452B. On the other hand, adopting innovative technologies like printed spacers allows for improvements in performance, energy savings, and membrane lifespan without altering the core chemistry or filtration process.
Innovation drives progress, and while trying something new may feel risky, the greater risk is staying the same and missing out on advancements that could benefit both the system and the bottom line. Taking that step forward with a proven technology, like printed spacers, is a calculated move towards greater efficiency and sustainability. If you’d like to learn more about the possibility of improved efficiency and cost savings in your operations, we’re just a click away.