RO pumps, or reverse osmosis pumps, are high-pressure, motor-powered devices that are essential for forcing water through the RO membrane to effectively remove contaminants, especially in areas with low water pressure. They ensure the system operates efficiently, improving water quality, increasing production, and prolonging the life of the RO membrane.
How RO Pumps Work
An RO pump is installed on the feed water line before the RO membrane to increase the pressure to an optimal level, typically 60–100 PSI (pounds per square inch). This increased pressure is crucial because it allows the system to overcome the natural osmotic pressure of the water (which increases with the concentration of dissolved solids), effectively pushing water molecules through the semi-permeable membrane while leaving impurities behind in the waste stream.
Types of RO Pumps
Diaphragm Pumps: Commonly used in domestic RO systems due to their compact size, energy efficiency, and quiet operation. They use a diaphragm mechanism to create pressure.
Rotary Vane Pumps: Often found in industrial or commercial RO applications, these positive displacement pumps trap water between rotating vanes to increase pressure.
Permeate Pumps: An energy-efficient option that uses the hydraulic energy from the brine (wastewater) stream to help pump the feed water into the membrane, without requiring electricity.
High-Pressure Pumps: Generally used in large-scale commercial or industrial systems that require very high water pressure for efficient operation
