Breaking out of the Membrane Mold: Options and Considerations for Plant Design at Pasadena, NL
Wes Alexander (Membrane Specialists LLC)

Membrane Specialists has over 80 years of combined membrane system design experience. We enjoy taking separation challenges from concept to commercialization in a variety of industries, applying membrane principals and learnings across these groups. The recent project for the water treatment plant at Pasadena, NL, allowed for the unique design of a membrane system to not only achieve drinking water quality standards, but save capital cost by eliminating the need for building expansion or additional electrical service. From this investigation of membrane systems in the region, the technical discussion around membrane configuration including design for efficiency, upstream and downstream equipment, and operational outliers may help inspire new and creative ideas in supporting the improvements of existing infrastructure or increased efficiencies for new projects. This presentation outlines the process for developing the water treatment plant additions at Pasadena, NL. Within that context, alternate membrane designs and the ramifications of those decisions are explored. This presents an alternative approach to package-based design; providing a candid review of the benefits and challenges of build-to-suit equipment.