Genairclean FAQ’s

Membrane cleaning frequency has a major impact on system downtime, output, chemical usage and membrane life. Research shows that the “Genairclean Method” can encourage foulant removal which reduces energy costs. The more foulant removed during the cleaning cycle the longer the system takes to re-foul. For this reason Genairclean has a positive impact on cleaning frequency, chemical costs (and chemical disposal), membrane life and operational efficiency.

The Genairclean system uses a dual approach to bubble generation. Air is inducted into the cleaning solution through the Genairator device as well as forming from the Genesol cleaner. Air bubbles from the inducted air stream will only be the correct size and flow evenly over the membrane surface in combination with the Genesol chemicals.

When combined with the  Genesol chemicals small bubbles create shear force which agitate and remove membrane foulants. Size and distribution of the microbubbles is critical to cover the entire membrane surface and penetrate the spacer.

Development of the Genairclean System has taken three years. During the research phase we tested many 8-inch elements from several manufacturers. Repeated cleaning simulated a 2-year cycle followed up by membrane autopsy. This showed clearly that there was no detrimental effect on salt rejection and flux rates.

It is simple to install the Genairator device into an existing CIP system. We can calculate the correct size from the make of CIP pump, flow rate and pressure. Generally the Genairator will be operational within the same day.

From laboratory and practical studies looking at four distinct features:

• Bubble size – A flat Sheet Test Rig with viewing window was used to observe bubble size and activity and the shear forces imparted to different foulants.
• Membrane compatibility – Eight inch membranes were tested to ensure no detrimental damage to membrane integrity.
• Cleaning efficiency – many eight inch fouled membranes were taken from operational plants in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. They had different foulant combinations typically found in operating systems. These were cleaned in the Genesys pilot plant, autopsied and a range of operational parameters recorded to determine the increase of foulant removal.
• Operational Systems – The final stage of testing used a number of operating systems across the world to compare foulant removal before and after use of the “Genairclean Method”

The cost of the Genairator system varies depending on the size/flow of the CIP system but for most mid range industrial RO systems the cost of the device is <$100 and installation is very simple. The long term reduction in cleaning frequency makes operational expenditure of the Genairclean system much more cost effective when compared with standard cleaning chemicals and regimes