
REVERSE OSMOSIS SERIES RO /M /ML
INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
INSTRUCTIONS FOR INSTALLATION
OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
WARNING!
The equipment must be used only for the utilization for which they have been
designed, as shown in the technical documentation.
Read carefully this leaflet until the end before starting any operation.
Proceed strictly according to all directions included in this manual.
Reverse osmosis systems models RO/M are designed to treat raw water supplied from
municipalities or from well.
ANY OTHER APPLICATIONS OF THE EQUIPMENT DIFFERENT THAN THE MENTIONED
ONES IS MADE UNDER THE ONLY RESPONSIBILITY OF THE USER.
For any assistance concerning the installations, maintenance or utilization of the equipment
apply the NOBEL Service Center closest to you or directly:
NOBEL S.r.l. via Monfalcone 8 - 20132 Milano
tel. +39 02 2827968 FAX +39 02 2610839
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INDEX
1. Safety ................................................................................................................................3
1.1.
General .......................................................................................................................3
1.2.
How to displace the unit ..............................................................................................3
1.3.
Hydraulics ...................................................................................................................3
1.4.
Electrical .....................................................................................................................3
1.5.
How to store and delivery............................................................................................3
2. Principles of working..........................................................................................................4
3. Technical characteristics ...................................................................................................4
3.1.
Assumed raw water characteristics.............................................................................4
3.2.
Technical characteristics series standard (RO...M) ....................................................5
3.3.
Technical characteristics series low energy (RO...ML) ...............................................5
4. Installation .........................................................................................................................6
4.1.
Room conditions .........................................................................................................6
4.2.
How to remove packaging...........................................................................................6
4.3.
How to move and lift the unit.......................................................................................6
4.4.
Placing ........................................................................................................................7
4.5.
Hydraulics connections ...............................................................................................7
4.6.
Electrical wiring connections .......................................................................................8
5. POWER CONTROL PANEL QP........................................................................................9
6. LOGICAL CONTROL PANEL QE....................................................................................10
6.1.
Commands & visualizations ......................................................................................10
6.2.
Levels........................................................................................................................11
6.3.
External commands ..................................................................................................11
6.4.
Hand-driven working .................................................................................................12
6.5.
Flushing ....................................................................................................................12
6.6.
Conductivity...............................................................................................................12
6.7.
Minimum pressure.....................................................................................................12
6.8.
Remote alarm............................................................................................................12
6.9.
Functions of the display ............................................................................................13
6.10.
How to program .....................................................................................................14
7. Service.............................................................................................................................15
7.1.
How to insert or replace membranes ........................................................................15
7.2.
Starting-up & adjustment...........................................................................................16
7.3.
Special instructions of use ........................................................................................17
8. Maintenance ....................................................................................................................18
8.1.
Periodical monitoring.................................................................................................18
8.2.
How to adjust the min pressure switch PC................................................................18
8.3.
Cleaning of the membranes ......................................................................................19
(see DIAGRAM no 2) ............................................................................................................19
8.4.
Disposal ....................................................................................................................20
8.5.
Table of chemicals for membranes cleaning.............................................................20
9. Trouble shooting guide ....................................................................................................21
Annex
• diagram of the system
• diagram MEMBRANES CLEANING
• diagram DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
• wiring diagrams
• NOBEL running-test certificate
• instructions solenoid valves
• special instructions filters
• instructions 3-ways valves GF343
• special instructions high-pressure pump
• components list
• fitting-out table
•
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1.
Safety
1.1.
General
The equipment has been designed and constructed according to D.P.R. n° 459 of 24th July
1996 (regulation for accomplishment of Norms 2006/42/CE, 91/368/CE, 93/44/CE and 93/68/CE
regarding the unification of States members laws in so far as machines are concerned).
It has been designed and constructed according to European Norms UNI EN 292-1, UNI EN
292-2, UNI EN 292-2/A1, UNI EN 418, CEI EN 60439-1, CEI EN 60 204-1.
Only authorized and skilled personnel will be allowed to carry out installation, start up as well
as routine and planned maintenance.
1.2.
How to displace the unit
Particular care and attention should be put in during moving and displacing of heavy items, in
order to avoid injuries to persons or damage properties. The heavy components must be lifted
and displaced by lifting or hooking them up only by the points and facilities shown on the
attached drawings (see § 4.3 page 6) It is strictly recommended to use only proper sized and
suitable ropes, chains or hooks. (see DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT diagram).
1.3.
Hydraulics
All operations must be performed by and/or under direct supervision of skilled and
authorized operators, using proper tools and personal protection devices if required
(CE marked), according to safety regulations for working areas. The operators must
be aware of the hazards and danger of the chemicals used in the process.
In case of leakage of chemicals and/or in case of accident (contact with skin, eyes,
etc.) follow strictly the directions mentioned on the safety bulletins of the chemicals
themselves.
Before any operation of taking out pipes or part of hydraulic system, it is required to
release the pressure inside and empty the part of the system.
1.4.
Electrical
Before starting any operation on electrical devices, be sure that main power supply is
OFF. All operations must be performed by skilled and authorized operators, using
proper tools and personal protection devices if required (CE marked), according to
safety regulations for working areas.
In case of liquid leakage, switch off the main power supply before operation. Before
the switching ON, be sure all the parts of the system are perfectly dry. Check that the
available electrical power is correct, as shown on technical data, before connection
(see § 3.2 page 5 “technical characteristics”). Do not make preliminary wiring
connections.
1.5.
How to store and delivery
t = ºC
• closed rooms
• open space
• transport
5÷40
5÷40
5÷40
t = ºF
41÷104
41÷104
41÷104
humidity rel.
5÷95% without condensate
5÷95% without condensate
5÷95% without condensate
notes
protect from sun-light and rain.
protect from sun-light and rain.
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2.
Principles of working
Osmosis is a natural phenomenon: it is the spontaneous passage of a liquid from a dilute to
a more concentrated solution across a semi-permeable membrane. The driving force of the
solution through the membrane is its osmotic pressure. Osmotic pressure is function of the
concentration of the solution or, in our cases, of the salinity of water.
Reverse Osmosis is the process in which the natural osmotic flow is reversed. Reversal is
effected by the application of pressure, greater than the osmotic pressure, to the concentrated
solution. Fresh water diffuses through the membrane (practically containing only a small
quantities of dissolved salts).
Reverse osmosis process allow the removal of approx. 90÷99 % of dissolved salts and
pollutants, if any. The real % removal depends on the kind of membrane used.
The semi-permeable membrane consists of several layers of special fibbers, and can be
made of different type and design (spiral wound, hollow fibber, etc.). The word permeate
indicates the product water, while the word concentrate indicates the flow of water carried to
drain, which contains the dissolved salts removed from the permeate.
3.
Technical characteristics
3.1.
Assumed raw water characteristics
• silt density index (SDI)
• max TDS of raw water
¾ series standard (RO...M)
¾ series low energy (RO...ML)
• raw water temperature min÷max
• raw water pressure min÷max
• bacteria
• free Chlorine
• iron
• silica
• total hardness: according to the pre-treatment
*
≤3
ppm
ppm
ºC (°F)
bar (kPa)
ppm Cl
ppm Fe
ppm SiO2
≤ 5000 *
≤ 1000 *
10÷40 (50÷104)
1.0÷6.0 (100÷600)
nil
≤ 0.1
≤ 0.1
≤ 10.0
max. value : according to the construction material used
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3.2.
Technical characteristics series standard (RO...M)
RO402 /M
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
TDS of treated water *
power supply
power
working pressure
max. allowable pressure
permeate at 15 ºC
feed water MIN-MAX
dimension
working weight
vessel
membrane 4”
filtering elements
V/ph/Hz
kW
bar (kPa)
bar (kPa)
l/h
l/h
kg
nº
nº
nº
RO403 /M
RO404 /M
≤ 2 % of raw water
400/3/50
3.0
16 approx. (1600 circa)
22 (2200)
500 **
750 **
1.000 **
650÷1000
1000÷1500 1300÷2000
vedi schema dimensionale
150
160
170
2 on serial
3 on serial
4 on serial
2
3
4
2 x 10"
3 x 10"
4 x 10"
* the mentioned percentage is referred to TDS of treated water and of the raw one; it depends
on the chemical-physical characteristics of raw water, the recovery rate and the operating
features of the system.
** treated water quantities, (permeate), as shown, depends on the raw water temperature (feed
water) and strictly depends on its chemical-physical characteristics.
3.3.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Technical characteristics series low energy (RO...ML)
TDS of treated water *
power supply
power
working pressure
max. allowable pressure
permeate at 15 ºC
feed water MIN-MAX
dimension
working weight
vessel
membrane 4”
filtering elements
V/ph/Hz
kW
bar (kPa)
bar (kPa)
l/h
l/h
kg
nº
nº
nº
RO402 /ML RO403 /ML RO404 /ML
≤ 5 % of raw water
400/3/50
2.2
10 approx. (1000 circa)
14 (1400)
500 **
750 **
1.000 **
650÷1000
1000÷1500 1300÷2000
vedi schema dimensionale
150
160
170
2 on serial
3 on serial
4 on serial
2
3
4
2 x 10"
3 x 10"
4 x 10"
* the mentioned percentage is referred to TDS of treated water and of the raw one; it depends
on the chemical-physical characteristics of raw water, the recovery rate and the operating
features of the system.
** treated water quantities, (permeate), as shown, depends on the raw water temperature (feed
water) and strictly depends on its chemical-physical characteristics.
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4.
Installation
4.1.
Room conditions
These units do not include visible moving or specially noising parts (see also the "noise
monitor chart" attached to the special instructions of high-pressure pump). There are not any
points which reaches high temperature.
Room & climate conditions.
•
•
•
•
5÷40ºC (41÷104ºF)
5÷95 % without condensate
• protection required
• protection required
room temperature
humidity rel.
sun-light
rain, snow etc.
4.2.
How to remove packaging
The packaging consist of a wooden crate which contains the reverse osmosis system, skidmounted.
Open the wooden crate removing, first, the cover and, then, the sides. Keep the cards and
everything contained inside the packaging.
4.3.
How to move and lift the unit
Some of the pipes of the plant are made in plastic material, hence
they can be easily damaged. Do not lift and/or move the unit by any
part of the plant. Use only the hooking rings, placed on the upper part
of the skid to lift the unit, and ropes or chain of adequate size and
dead-weight capacity. Fork-lift or other suitable equipment can be
used, checking to warrant correct balance and stability during the
movement.
(see DIMENSIONS/WEIGHT diagram - sheet no. 2)
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4.4.
Placing
Place the unit on a perfectly flat surface.
Follow the directions of the dimensional drawing (DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT DIAGRAM) for
the correct placing of the unit, according to the dimensions of the available room and the
required room for service and maintenance.
Not any anti-vibration devices is required, hence the unit can be directly placed on floor.
4.5.
Hydraulics connections
see
DIAGRAM
OF
THE
SYSTEM
DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT DIAGRAM.
and
•
Connect the raw water line (I) to the inlet water fitting upstream of filters manifold, using
pipes made in PVC or other suitable materials, with size (Ø) equal or larger than the size
of inlet connection (I).
Whether the raw water contains a large quantity of suspended solids, the filters (filtration 5
µm) could be clogged very quickly; in this case a proper pre-filter with filtration of 50 µm,
should be provided. According to the characteristics of raw water, the pre-treatment could
be required; apply Nobel technical staff for proper suggestion.
• Run the line from the product water outlet fitting (U) to the storage tank, using pipes made
in PVC or other suitable materials, with size (Ø) equal or larger than the size of outlet
connection (U).
• Run the line from the drain fitting (S) to a floor drain of a proper size, using pipes made in
PVC or other suitable materials, with size (Ø) equal or larger than the size of concentrate
connection (S).
• The fitting arrangement for cleaning (R), will be connected, when required, to the cleaning
tank or to the drain. Indeed, it allows the recirculation (or the drain) of permeate and
concentrate during these operation.
THE OUTLET PRODUCT WATER LINE MUST BE COMPLETELY FREE OF
ANY SHRINKAGE - THROTTLING - SHUT OFF VALVE
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4.6.
Electrical wiring connections
Run the electrical wiring connections to the terminal board of the power control panel (QP),
as below explained. All the connections between power control panel (QP) and logical control
panel (QE), and to the equipment mounted on the skid, have been already made in factory (see
WIRING DIAGRAM).
•
•
•
•
The power supply plant must be made according to the value of voltage, frequency and
adsorption, as stated at paragraph “TECHNICAL CHARACTERISTICS”.
The size of the wires of the electrical power conductors must be selected according to the
max allowable current intensity.
The power supply line must be protected by an automatic differential circuit breaker, with
adequate power and according to applicable law.
It is recommended to use suitable fittings, for the wiring connection, in order not to modify
the protection grade of the control board.
o
o
o
o
o
RL
SL
TL
NL
o power supply 400V, 50 Hz
o
"
"
"
"
o
"
"
"
"
o
"
"
"
"
o GND
o
o
o
o
1
9
10
12
o
o
o
o
o
o
6
13
o free-voltage contact for remote alarm (NO)
o free-voltage contact for remote alarm (NO)
common to the micro-switch and to levels LL - LH
max. level LH (open without water)
medium level LL (open without water)
micro-switch timer NO (connect on serial if more than 1, make a jumper if not present)
At the shipment, the terminals 1 and 10 of medium level are connected by a jumper; the
same jumper connection is made with terminals 1 and 12 of micro-switches. The jumpers must
be removed when the connections of these facilities (medium level and micro-switches) are
used.
Whether only one ON-OFF level wire connection is available, connect it between the
terminals 1 and 9 as well as between terminals 1 and 10.
Whether more than one micro-switch is available (for example for interface with filter and
softener), their contacts NO must be connected on serial.
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5.
POWER CONTROL PANEL QP
The power control panel supplies the electrical power to the logical control panel QE as well
as to the high-pressure pump P.
The commands and visualizations available on the front of control panel QP are:
MAIN SWITCH "0-1"
it switches OFF the power of all the system
SELECTOR “AUT-0-MAN” it controls the working of the water high-pressure pump P
the pump P works according to the controls of the logical control
on “AUT”
on “MAN”
on “0”
panel QE
the pump P works independently of the logical control panel QE
the pump P does not work anyway
"R.O. PUMP "
it indicates that the high-pressure pump P is working
"PUMP OVERLOAD
ALARM "
it acts in the same time of the overload circuit breaker of the highpressure pump P.
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6.
LOGICAL CONTROL PANEL QE
6.1.
Commands & visualizations
(see Diagram of the system))
ROCONTROL
ELECTRONIC PROGRAMMER
®
morsettiera − terminal board
The commands and visualizations available on the front of control panel QE are:
It is placed on the top side of the control panel; pushing the
button any working of the system is blocked. To re-start the
system, turn clock-wise the button, for approx. 30º, until the snap
of the correct placing.
It
turns OFF the power to the control panel.
SWITCH "0-1"
It shows all the functions described for each paragraph.
"DISPLAY"
Not used in the RO-M series.
"THERMAL RESET"
BUTTON "PROGR.MODE" It allows programming (see § 6.10 page 14).
It resets the alarms and the working function.
BUTTON "RESET"
It starts a manual flushing and/or starts the hand-driven working
BUTTON "FLUSHING"
of the system.
It modifies the visualization of the display; when on program
BUTTON "ADVANCE"
mode it increases the number values.
The led turns ON showing the working of the pump P
"SERVICE"
"EMERGENCY STOP "
"STAND-BY"
"INHIBIT"
"ALARM"
The led turns ON to show that the system is on stand-by waiting
for the enabling signals, of level switches system, to feed water.
The led turns on to warn of the missing of external contact (microswitches timer), enabling the working.
The led turns ON to warn the alarm for low pressure and/or high
conductivity of water.
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The logical control panel QE includes a computerized programmable card; it allows the
automatic and/or hand-driven working of the whole system.
When the high-pressure pump P is working, the solenoid valve EVI is open; therefore, every
and each time the working of the pump P is mentioned in this manual, it is also assumed that
the inlet solenoid valve EVI is open.
The starting of the pump P delays some seconds after the opening of the solenoid valve EVI.
6.2.
Levels
Whether level switches are installed on the storage tank and are connected to the control
board, as previously mentioned, the stop and starting of the high pressure pump P is
automatically controlled by the medium-maximum level switches.
Whether only one level switch ON-OFF is available, it works as a max. level (LH) and as a
medium level (LL) switch as well; it means that the closing of the contact stops the pump P,
while its opening starts the pump.
During the supplying of water, the led "SERVICE" is ON, and the display shows the
conductivity of permeate. Pushing one or more time the button "ADVANCE", the display shows
other available information. (see § 6.9 page 13).
When the level of water (permeate) in the storage tank reaches the max. level, the system
stops and wait for re-starting the supplying of water; the led "STAND-BY" is ON and the display
shows ST-0.
At the shipment, the terminals of medium level LL are bridge connected. It allows to start the
supplying of water, by pushing the button "RESET", even if not any level switch is wiring
connected to the terminals.
Pushing the button "RESET" changes the working mode of the system, as follows :
• if the system is working ("SERVICE"), the pushing of the button turns it on "STAND-BY"
and the flushing of end cycle runs.
• if the system is on "STAND-BY", the pushing of the button turns it on "SERVICE" and the
supplying of water starts.
WARNING : This feature is available only with factory wiring connection, without any level
switch, as above explained. Whether the level switches are connected they will
handle the working of the system.
6.3.
External commands
Whether automatic filters or softeners are installed upstream of RO system, the regeneration
of these units must stop the working of the pump of RO system.
The contacts of the microswitch of programmers of Nobel filters and softeners is closed only
during the service; hence only during the service of filters and softeners the RO system can
work and supply water.
If the microswitch of any filters and/or softeners is open, it inhibits the working of RO system
and the led "INHIBIT" is ON.
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6.4.
Hand-driven working
The system can also works out of the automatic commands of level and pressure switches,
as hand-driven controlled. Just push the button "FLUSHING" for at least 6", and the system will
start to work out of automatic control.
The display shows ST-C, warning that the system is working under the hand-driven control
and not automatically. To stop this feature, and re-set the automatic control, just push the button
"RESET".
If the led "INHIBIT" is ON or turns ON, i.e. the external commands inhibits the working, the
system cannot work or stop the (hand-driven) working.
6.5.
Flushing
The feature of flushing is available. It allows to purge the membranes, by flushing high flow
rate water. This feature runs automatically according to pre-set time schedule, during the
current working of the pump P, by automatically opening the special solenoid valve EVF.
Also, the flushing features automatically every time the treated water inside the storage tank
reaches the max. level, at the end of water supplying phase (end-cycle flushing). The time of
the flushing feature is adjustable, as below explained. The flushing can be also hand-driven
featured, just pushing the button "FLUSHING", available on the front of the control panel; the
hand-driven feature is available only if the system is on SERVICE.
The flushing featured during the service is shown by ST-A on display.
The flushing can be stopped by pushing the button "RESET".
NOTE: The end-cycle flushing does not feature if the stop of working is caused by minimum
pressure alarm or by external commands (filters/softener micro-switch contacts).
6.6.
Conductivity
Water conductivity is rough related to its salinity. Since conductivity value is easily
measurable, it is normally used to gives an indication, even if approximate, of the efficiency of
the system.
The control panel includes the control of the conductivity of treated water (permeate). When
the conductivity of treated water is higher than the set-point value, the display blinks to warn of
high conductivity alarm. The factory set point is 50 µS/cm , and it is adjustable as below
explained. The alarm of high conductivity water has not any influence on working of the system.
6.7.
Minimum pressure
A pressure switch PC is installed upstream of the high pressure pump P.
It acts when the pressure of the water in that point is less than 1 bar (100 kPa). It can be also
caused by non-opening of the solenoid valve EVI. It drives the low-pressure alarm, few seconds
delayed, and stops the working of the high pressure pump P. The display shows ST-9 and
blinks.
The alarm and the block can be cancelled only by pushing the button "RESET".
6.8.
Remote alarm
The above mentioned two alarms (low pressure and high conductivity) turns ON the led
ALARM, while and in the same time the display blinks. They also drive a relays with a free
voltage contact for remote alarm (see electrical wiring connections).
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6.9.
Functions of the display
The display of the control panel shows, one after the other, the below listed features/values,
just pushing in sequence the button "ADVANCE". During these visualization not any
modification or adjustment is possible.
DISPLAY
DESCRIPTION
0085
0.0.60
0.123
ST-x
conductivity of permeate (standard visualization during the service).
set point for high conductivity alarm.
hours of working of the pump P.
step of the working of the system (standard visualization during non-working)
ST-x can assume the following values :
DISPLAY
STEP OF THE SYSTEM
ST-0
ST-1
ST-2
ST-3
ST-4
ST-5
ST-6
ST-7
ST-9
ST-A
ST-C
system is ready to work (STAND-BY)
inlet valve is open waiting for the starting of the pump
inlet valve open and pump working (SERVICE)
end-cycle (storage tank full) pump OFF, waiting for switching OFF inlet valve
end-cycle flushing featuring
passage step before ST-4
passage step after end-cycle flushing and before STAND-BY
water supplying interrupted caused by external command (INHIBIT)
alarm for low pressure of inlet water
flushing during service
hand-driven working
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6.10. How to program
The button PROGR.MODE must be pressed for longer than 6 seconds to program the
system or to modify the factory set.
After 6" the display shows the first step of the factory set program, 0Txx, where xx is the
factory set value. The value can be modified by pushing the button ADVANCE.
By simply pushing one more time the button PROGR.MODE the system allows to skip at the
following step of the program.
The program mode can be interrupted at any time just pushing the button RESET; anyway,
the programming is automatically interrupted if the buttons neither PROGR.MODE nor
ADVANCE are pushed for longer than 30".
The entered data are saved in memory even if the programming has not been completed, but
only if the buffer battery is perfectly charged.
Otherwise if the programming is completed, included the last step, the system save all the
data inside a special EEPROM. These data will be saved even without buffer battery. The
programming can be made or changed at any time.
STANDARD
VALUE
STEP
FUNCTION (x = number value)
8"
5"
3"
50 minutes
0txx
2txx
3txx
4txx
1
0
1
0
0
1
1
1
30"
60
1
0atx
1atx
2atx
3atx
0Htx
1Htx
2Htx
3Htx
1txx
x.x.xx
At0x
duration of the flushing (seconds or minutes according to the value of 3atx)
delay (in seconds) for minimum pressure alarm
delay (in second) for INHIBIT acting
time between two following flushing during service (minutes or hour according
to the value of 1atx)
x=0 : flushing without pump; x=1 : flushing with pump
time between two following flushing : x=0 minutes; x=1 hours
end-cycle flushing : x=0 not available; x=1 available
x=0 : flushing in seconds; x=1 : flushing in minutes
x=0 : flushing with EVI open; x=1 : flushing with EVI closed
not used
high conductivity alarm : x=0 not available; x=1 available
flushing during service : x=0 not available; x=1 available
delay (in seconds) for high conductivity alarm
set-point of high conductivity
not used
saving on EEPROM and end of program mode.
blinking

s.r.l.Milano - ITALY
Page 14 of 21
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REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM RO /M /ML - INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
7.
Service
7.1.
How to insert or replace membranes
(see DIAGRAM OF THE SYSTEM)
• be sure that the main power switch is turned on position "0" (control panel QE OFF)
• take off all the caps of the membrane housings M, loosening the closing rings which keep
the caps fixed to the housings themselves.
• after removed the caps, release the housings from the holding brackets which keep them
fixed to the skid.
• (replacing) take out the membrane from the housings pushing them according to the
arrows marked on the housings.
• rinse each and every new membrane with plenty running water to remove most of the
preservative solution of which the membrane is filled.
• insert the membranes inside the housings according to the arrows marked on the
housings and the direction of water flow through the seal of the membrane ends
(according to figure). Push firmly in order that the membrane is perfectly seated inside its
housing. Whether the membrane requires the special adapter, it must be inserted as
shown on figure.
• fix again the housing on the skid inserting them in the special brackets; check of the
correct position of the housing, according to the arrow on the housing and as shown on
DIAGRAM OF THE SYSTEM.
• place again the caps on the housing ends and fix them with their special closing rings
removed before.
After the replacement of the membranes, follow the directions of "Starting-up & adjustment",
to re-start again the working of the system (see § 7.2 page 16).
CAUTION: the sealing gasket of membranes and housings can be lubricated, before
inserting, using glycerine, for perfect sealing and sliding. NEVER USE SILICONE
GREASE !!

s.r.l.Milano - ITALY
Page 15 of 21
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REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM RO /M /ML - INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
7.2.
Starting-up & adjustment
New membranes are usually filled with a preservative solution, as well as after a long nonworking period of the system.
Therefore, at the starting-up of the system and when the system is re-started after a long
non-working period the membranes are filled with preservative solution.
After a cleaning operation, instead, the membrane are still filled with detergent solution.
Hence, in both cases, it is required to remove completely the preservative or detergent from
the membranes before that treated water can be used.
The operations is made as follows : (see "DIAGRAM OF THE SYSTEM")
• be sure that the power switch of power control panel QP is OFF (main switch turned on
"0" position)
• connect temporarily the fitting R to a drain
• divert temporarily also the permeate line to the drain,
by turning the 3-way valve V3 on cleaning position,
(the direction of the flow towards the fitting R, check
the direction with the symbol marked on the lever of
3-ways valves).
• open completely the needle regulation valve VS
• close completely the needle regulation valve VR
• open slowly the water inlet valve of the system. In order to easy the filling of the filters F,
release slightly the air-valve placed on the top side of the filters themselves.
• switch ON the main power of QP control board (on "1" position), and switch the mode
selector on "AUT" position.
• switch ON the main power of QE control board (on "1" position); the system will start to
work if the position of level switches is accorded with water supplying; otherwise it is
required to hand-driven the working of the system as above explained (hand-driven
command on control panel QE).
• after several minutes of working the flow rates can be checked and adjusted. (in case the
system is working by hand-driven control, the min pressure switch is disabled;
hence it is required to check carefully the pressure gauges M1 and M2 in order to
realize if there is the required minimum inlet pressure of water)
• adjust the needle valve VS, mounted on the drain line of the membranes, in order that the
flow rate of permeate (flow meter F1) meet the technical data of the system. The value of
pressure shown on pressure gauge M2, after the adjustment of VS valve, is the normal
working pressure of the system according to the available raw water quality (chemical
composition, temperature, etc.)
An adjustable recirculating system is available in order to reduce the quantity of
concentrated (drain) water and/or reduce the working pressure. Proceed as follows :
• adjust the needle valve VR to recirculate part of concentrated water in order to reduce the
flow rate of water carried to drain. The adjustment of the valve VR cause also the
modification of the working pressure, hence a new adjustment of valve VS is required,
until both values pressure/flow rate are the ones desired.

s.r.l.Milano - ITALY
Page 16 of 21
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REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM RO /M /ML - INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
NOTE: The best ratio treated water/drain water (permeate/concentrated) can be decided
according to the characteristics of raw water.
The higher is the value of the ratio, the higher is the risk of membrane fouling,
furthermore if the hardness of raw water is high.
However, even if the raw water is soft (naturally or processed by a softener), it is
recommended that the above concentration ratio should not be higher than 1
(permeate/concentrated)
CAUTION:
Normally, the longest life of the membrane depends on the lowest working
pressure, with same other operating conditions. Therefore, should the
quantity of treated water (permeate) is satisfactory, the system can work at a
working pressure lower than the stated one.
CAUTION:
The treated water (permeate) supplied during the first hour of working of the
system must not be used, since it can still contain residual of preservative
chemical. When this solution will be completely flushed away, the valve V3
must be turned on normal working position (the permeate flow is diverted to
the storage tank).
7.3.
Special instructions of use
• It is STRICTLY required that the contents of Chlorine in raw water must be lower than 0.1
ppm; higher quantity can seriously damage the membrane.
• Raw water temperature should be between 10° and 40° C (50°F < t < 104°F), and pH
value between 3 and 10.
• Whether a non-working period, longer than one week is expected, it is suggested to fill the
membranes with a preservative solution containing 1% of sodium disulphite (NaHSO3) in
water treated by RO system.
The preservative is injected into the membranes using an auxiliary tank, the same way
described for the cleaning, but without rinse. The solution is simply drawn by the highpressure pump P.
At the re-start of the system it is required to remove the preservative from the
membranes, same way described at § 7.2 "starting-up & adjustment".

s.r.l.Milano - ITALY
Page 17 of 21
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REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM RO /M /ML - INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
8.
Maintenance
8.1.
Periodical monitoring
The system requires, as periodical maintenance, the cleaning or replacing of the cartridge of
filters.
Special instructions :
• check monthly the values of pressure and flow rate of the water; they have to comply with
ones stated by the manufacturer.
• clean the 50 µm pre-filter, whether installed, when its cartridge is clearly dirty (max.
allowable pressure drop of the filters is 0.8 bar - 80 kPa)
• replace the 5 µm filtering cartridges model CRF 25/5 of the filters F, at least every six
months, according to the quality of raw water or when the inlet pressure decreases (max.
allowable pressure drop of the filters is 0.8 bar - 80 kPa).
• before the opening of the filter close the inlet shut off ball valve V1; follow the attached
special instructions of the filters.
• replace the RO membranes, when the quality and/or quantity of treated water (permeate)
is not satisfactory any more. Whether the raw water is adequately pre-treated the life of
membranes is usually longer than 3-4 years (even 5-6 years). Therefore, the life of
membranes depends on the quality of water to be processed.
After the replacement of filters and/or membranes, to re-start the system follow the
directions described at § 7.2 "starting-up & adjustment".
8.2.
How to adjust the min pressure switch PC
The factory set point of the pressure switch PC is approx. 1 bar (100kPa). Whether further
adjustment should be required, proceed as follows :
• switch OFF the main power of the control panel QE.
• remove the cap of the electrical connector on the head of the pressure switch, by
unscrewing the screw placed in the center of the cap.
• unscrew 2 turns the hexagonal head holed screw placed in the center of the pressure
switch.
• using a (cut edge) screwdriver, through the hole of the hexagonal head screw, adjust the
turns of the internal screw of the pressure switch until the correct set-point is reached.
• to check if the adjustment has been correctly made, put on again for a while the cap on
the electrical connector, switch the power ON, start the pump on "MAN" and close partially
the inlet valve V1, in order that the min pressure switch acts. Check on the pressure
gauge M1, on filter inlet line or the M2 on pump inlet line, the set value of pressure of the
pressure switch.
• when the adjustment is completed, screw on again the holed screw in the center and the
electrical connector.

s.r.l.Milano - ITALY
Page 18 of 21
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REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM RO /M /ML - INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
8.3.
Cleaning of the membranes
(see DIAGRAM no 2)
The operation of membrane cleaning must be performed only by skilled and
authorized operators, using proper tools and CE marked personal protection devices
(gloves, masks, cloths). The operator must be aware of the hazard and danger of
the chemicals used in the process.
It is also required to follow strictly the directions mentioned on the safety bulletins of
the chemicals themselves.
During the normal working, but during the non-working as well, the membranes can be fouled
according to the quality of raw water and the operating conditions; hence a cleaning of the
membranes can be required, using proper and suitable detergent (see "Table of chemicals for
cleaning" in the next page).
In these cases, it is suggested to apply the Nobel service point closest to you or our technical
dept.
The cleaning of the membranes is made by recirculating the detergent through the
membranes.
Proceed as follows :
• prepare the detergent solution in auxiliary tank; the tank should have a useful volume of at
least 10 liters for each membrane of the system. To dilute the chemical use treated water
(permeate) supplied by the system.
• switch the main selector of the logical control panel QE on "0" position
• switch the working mode selector of the pump P, on the power control panel QP, on "0"
position
• close the shut-off valve V1 upstream of the filters
• connect the fitting R to the auxiliary tank, as recirculation connection.
• turn the 3-ways valves V2 and V3 on cleaning
position (the direction of the flow towards the fitting
R, check the direction with the symbol marked on
the lever of 3-ways valves)
• open completely the needle valve VS and close the recirculating valve VR
• connect the manual valve R1, mounted on the suction line of the pump P, to the auxiliary
tank, suction fitting.
• start manually the pump P, by switching the selector of the power control board QP and
recirculate the solution in the auxiliary tank for 20-30 minutes; take care that the
temperature and pH of the solution will be within the recommended values mentioned in
the table.
• whether required, repeat the operation of cleaning, possibly using a different chemical,
after rinsing roughly the membrane with water.
Before to start the service, It is required to remove accurately the residual
detergent inside the membranes, the same way described at § 7.2 "starting-up
& adjustment".
the dumping of the solution used to clean the membranes must be made
according to local laws concerning the waste and environmental protection.
Follow the instructions mentioned on technical bulletin of the chemical
used.
CAUTION :

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Page 19 of 21
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REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM RO /M /ML - INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
8.4.
Disposal
In the case of the disposal of the system or components of it, follow local laws and
regulations concerning the materials of which they are made. Take note that membranes and
filtering elements are classified as simple plastic material, they are not toxic or harmful.
8.5.
Table of chemicals for membranes cleaning
0.2 % (W) NH2SO3H
OK
OK
OK
2.4 % (W) Acido citrico /
Acide Citrique / Citric Acid
2.4 % (W) NH4F-HF
pH 1.5-2.5, 30 °C MAX
2.0 % (W) Acido citrico /
Acide Citrique / Citric Acid
BEST
2.4 % (W) Na2S2O4
0.5 % (W) H3PO4
Sali Inorganici /
Sels Inorganiques
Inorganic Salts
0.5 % (V) HCl
1.0 % (W) STP
1.0 % (W) TSP
1.0 % (W) Na-EDTA
0.1 % (w) NaOH
0.1 % (w) Na-DSS
pH 12, 30 °C MAX
TIPO DI SPORCO /
SALETE’ /
FOULANT
0.1 % (w) NaOH
0.1 % (w) Na-EDTA
pH 12, 30 °C MAX
DETERGENTE / DETERGENT / CLEANER
OK
(per esempio / par exemple / for example:
CaCO3 - CaSO4 - BaSO4)
Ossidi Metallici / Oxjdes Métalliques /
Metal Oxides
(per esempio / par exemple / for example:
GOOD
OK
GOOD
Ferro - Fer - Iron)
Inorganici Colloidali / Colloïdaux
Inorganiques / Inorganic Colloids
(silt)
Silice / Silice / Silica
Biofilms
Organici / Organiques / Organics
1. (W) Peso percentuale. (V) Volume
percentuale. Cosí 2.0 % (W) acido citrico
significa : 2 grammi di acido citrico sciolto in
98 grammi d’acqua.
2. Simboli chimici delle sostanze incrostanti,
nell’ordine: CaCO3 = carbonato di calcio.
CaSO 4= solfato di calcio. BaSO4 = solfato di
bario.
3. Simboli chimici dei detergenti nell’ordine:
NaOH = idrossido di sodio. Na-EDTA =
sodio etilen-diammino-tetra-acetato Na-DDS
= sodio dodecilsulfato. STP = sodio trifosfato
(Na5P3O10). TSP = fosfato trisodico (Na3PO4 12H2O). HCl = acido cloridrico. H3PO4 =
acido fosforico. NH2SO3H = acido
sulfammico. Na2S2O4 = sodio idrosolfito.
NH4F- HF = ammonio bifluoruro.
GOOD
OK
OK
BEST
BEST
GOOD
GOOD
OK
GOOD
GOOD
1. (W) pourcentage poids . (V) pourcentage
volume. Aussi 2.0 % (W) signifie : 2 grammes
d’acide citrique dissout en 98 grammes d’eau.
2. Symboles chimiques des substances
incrustantes, en ordre : CaCO3 = carbonate de
calcium. CaSO 4 = sulfate de calcium. BaSO4 =
sulfate de baryum.
3. Symboles chimiques des détergents utilisés,
en ordre: NaOH = hydroxyde de sodium. NaEDTA sel sodium de acide tetracétique de
diéthylamine . Na-DDS = sels de sodium
dodecylsulfate. STP = sodium triphosphate
(Na5P3O10). TSP = trisodium phosphate
(Na3PO4 - 12H2O).
HCl = acide hydrochlorique. H3PO4 = acide
phosphorique. NH2SO3H = acide sulfamique.
Na2S2O4 = sodium hydrosolfite. NH4F- HF =
ammonium bifluorure.
1. (W) denotes weight percent. (V) denotes
volume percent. So 2.0 % (W) citric acid
means 2 grams of citric acid dissolved in 98
grams of water.
2. Foulant chemical symbols in order used :
CaCO3 = calcium carbonate. CaSO 4 =
calcium sulfate. BaSO4 = barium sulfate.
3. Cleaning chemical symbols, in order used:
NaOH = sodium hydroxyde. Na-EDTA
sodium salt of ethylene diamine tetraacetic
acid. Na-DDS = sodium salt of
dodecylsulfate. STP = sodium triphosphate
(Na5P3O10). TSP = trisodium phosphate
(Na3PO4 - 12H2O).
HCl = hydrochloric acid. H3PO4 = phosphoric
acid. NH2SO3H = sulfamic acid. Na2S2O4 =
sodium hydrosulfite. NH4F- HF = ammonium
bifluoride

s.r.l.Milano - ITALY
Page 20 of 21
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PROBLEM
The inlet solenoid valve is dirty or spoiled
and does not close properly.
Software is blocked.
Push the hidden button on the front of the control panel
Clean or replace the solenoid valve.
Purge air off the pump.
Repair and/or replace the pump.
Open shut-off valves of the filters.
Clean or replace the filtering elements.
Check the available water.
Replace the solenoid valve.
Replace the pressure switch.
Adjust the pressure switch.
Clean or replace the solenoid valve.
Replace the membranes.
Increase the pressure by adjusting the valve(s) VS, VR.
Wash the membranes.
Replace the membranes.
Adjust correctly valve VS and/or VR.
s.r.l.Milano - ITALY

Page 21 of 21
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Increase the pressure by adjusting the valve(s) VS, VR.
Withdraw the membranes and check the integrity and the correct
placing of O-rings. Replace or place correctly them.
Rinse membranes with high flow rate of water.
HOW TO SOLVE
* CAUTION : pressure upstream of the pump must be checkled when the pump is working, since this is the operating condition when the pressure
switch alarm acts.
Minimum pressure alarm acts
because the inlet pressure
upstream of the pump is < 1 bar
(100 kPa) *
Minimum pressure alarm acts
although the inlet pressure
upstream of the pump is > 1 bar
(100 kPa) *
There is a passage of water during
non-working of the system.
The control panel does not switch
on, although the power is on.
The pressure does not increase
Low pressure treated water
(permeate).
CAUSE
Too low pressure on membranes.
Leakage of untreated water through O-ring
seals of membranes.
The preservative or detergent solution has
not been removed completely.
Spoiled membranes
Too low pressure on membranes.
Fouled membranes.
Spoiled membranes
Valve VS and/or VR are not properly
adjusted.
Flushing solenoid valve is dirty or spoiled
and does not close perfectly.
There is air inside the pump.
The pump is spoiled.
Shut off valves of the filters are closed.
The pre-filters are clogged
Inlet water pressure is too low
Inlet solenoid valve is defected.
Pressure switch is defected.
The pressure switch is not properly adjusted.
Trouble shooting guide
High conductivity of treated water
(permeate)
9.
REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEM SERIE RO /M /ML - INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
RO 203D
RO 402M
RO 403M
RO 404M
RO 404E
RO 406E
RO 409E
RO 412E
RO 802E
RO 803E
RO 804E
RO 806E
RO 809E
RO 812E
RO 815E
RO 820E
RO 825E
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
−
−
−
−
−
RO 202D
•
RO 201D
•
• standard
o available upon request
- not available
* available as external unit (see pretreatment)
RO 221D
• di serie
o disponibile su richiesta
- non disponibile
come unità esterna (vedi pre* disponibile
trattamenti)
acciaio inox AISI 304
•
•
•
stainless steel AISI 304
acciaio inox AISI 316
-
-
-
- ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο •
•
•
•
•
stainless steel AISI 316
acciaio inox AISI 304
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
stainless steel AISI 304
acciaio inox AISI 316
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
stainless steel AISI 316
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
fiberglass only for ML and EL series
ottone
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
brass
PVC
-
-
-
- ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο
PVC
ottone
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
−
−
−
−
−
brass
acciaio inox AISI 316
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
ο
•
•
•
•
•
stainless steel AISI 316
POMPA PRESSURIZZAZIONE
BOOSTER PUMP
VESSEL
vetroresina solo per serie ML ed EL
VESSEL
ELETTROVALVOLA INGRESSO
INLET SOLENOID VALVE
PRESSOSTATO MINIMA
MINIMUM PRESSURE SWITCH
VALVOLA REGOLAZIONE PRESS. POMPA
PUMP PRESS. REGULATION VALVE
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
stainless steel AISI 316
acciaio inox AISI 316
ο
ο
ο
o
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
stainless steel AISI 316
ottone
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
brass
PVC
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
PVC
nylon
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
nylon
acciaio inox AISI 316
VALVOLA REGOLAZIONE PORTATA SCARICO
DRAIN FLOW REGULATION VALVE
TUBAZIONI BASSA PRESSIONE
LOW PRESSURE TUBING
TUBAZIONI ALTA PRESSIONE
HIGH PRESSURE TUBING
nylon
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
nylon
acciaio inox AISI 316
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
stainless steel AISI 316
MEMBRANE ACQUA SALMASTRA
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
BRACKISH WATER MEMBRANES
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
brass
-
-
- ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο ο
monofase
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
trifase combi
-
-
-
-
•
•
trifase
-
-
pre-filtro 5µm
•
•
•
•
•
VALVOLA FLUSSAGGIO AUTOMATICO
ottone
acciaio inox AISI 316
AUTOMATIC FLUSH VALVE
QUADRO DI COMANDO
stainless steel AISI 316
CONTROL BOARD
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
single-phase
•
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
three-phases
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
5µm pre-filter
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
activated carbon pre-filter
three-phases combi
pre-filtro a carbone attivo
•
•
•
•
*
manometro ingresso filtri
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
filters inlet pressure gauge
manometro ingresso pompa
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
pump inlet pressure gauge
manometro ingresso membrane
•
•
•
•
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
membranes inlet pressure gauge
manometro intermedio membrane
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
intermediate stage pressure gauge
manometro concentrato
-
-
-
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
drain flow pressure gauge
programmatore elettronico
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
electronic programmer
cella conducibilità AISI 316/PVC
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
conductivity probe AISI 316/PVC
conduttimetro digitale
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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digital conductivity meter
flussimetro concentrato
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drain line flow meter
flussimetro permeato
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product water line flow meter
sistema ricircolo regolabile
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adjustable recirculating system
skid in acciaio inox AISI304
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stainless steel AISI 304 skid
predisposizione lavaggi
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washing arrangements
rev. 3
COMPONENTI RO.XLS 26/02/2010