Design and construction of a desalination system using the reverse osmosis method

In this study, a compact reverse osmosis (RO) desalination system was designed and constructed, capable of producing ۱۲۰ L/h of potable water with a salt rejection efficiency of ۹۸.۷% at ۱۵-۱۸ bar operating pressure and energy consumption of ۳.۵ kWh/m³. The novelty of this system lies in its modular low-cost structure suitable for emergency and off-grid conditions. Challenges such as energy consumption and brine management were identified. A desalination device is an efficient water purification system that can be easily transported and deployed in such conditions. In this context, water desalination technologies, particularly those designed for small-scale use in remote and underserved regions, have gained increasing importance. This paper presents the design and construction of a small-scale conventional desalination system based on reverse osmosis (RO). The proposed system comprises components such as a high-pressure pump, a pre-filtration unit, an RO membrane, and a storage tank, all assembled to ensure high efficiency and low energy consumption. The performance analysis of the system showed that it achieved a salt rejection efficiency of over ۸۷%, and the quality of the treated water met drinking water standards. The system is capable of converting highly saline water with high electrical conductivity into potable water at a relatively low initial and maintenance cost. Its modular and straightforward design also facilitates easy construction and repair by non-specialized users. The results of this study indicate that seawater can be utilized for drinking purposes during critical situations such as famine, drought, war, floods, earthquakes, and other emergencies.

کلیدواژه ها:

Desalination ، Freshwater Production ، Membrane Technology ، Reverse Osmosis ، Water Treatment