FAQ

Why yes we do! Synder Filtration offers both feasibility testing services and pilot study program. Feasibility tests are done on-site at Synder HQ using either a flat sheet test loop or 2540 pilot system. Flat sheet test loops are used for customers looking to determine which specific membrane provides the optimal flux and separation performance, as multiple membrane types can be tested simultaneously. 2540 pilot systems are useful for determine the pressure drop across an element, and provide additional data that can be used for scaling up to large-scale systems. Pilot systems are also available for rent on a monthly basis.

Additionally, we offer a membrane development program for customers looking to customize an element and/or work closely with us to create innovative membranes to suit their specialty process application.

1. Remove the new flat sheet from its storage bag and ensure that the flat sheet has not been damaged or tampered with. Look for any scratches, wrinkles, and/or deformities that could hinder performance.
2. Carefully rinse the flat sheet with RO or DI water before usage. This will flush out any preservatives and other unwanted materials attached to the flat sheet.
3. Make sure your hands are clean before handling the flat sheet. Hold onto the ends of the flat sheet when transferring it around. Do not contaminate the membrane as much as possible as this may hinder performance.
4. Place the flat sheet onto the filtration cell body and secure tightly.
5. Increase the pressure in the system slowly until you reach your desired pressure level. It is important not to rapidly increase pressure as this may cause over compaction in the membrane.
6. Properly store the flat sheet when it is not in use. It is important that you do not allow the membrane to dry out at any point in time.

For the full set of Flat Sheet Membrane Installation & Storage Guidelines, download the PDF here.

A. 6 MONTHS OR LESS (SHORT TERM)
Immediately following the final CIP flush, the system should be filled with 1% Sodium Metabisulfite (MBS) solution with a pH of 4.0-5.0. Every 7-10 days the following procedure should be performed:

1. Drain MBS solution from the system and flush to drain with clean water.
2. Run a caustic wash. (See caustic wash directions on p. 17 and 18)
3. Flush to drain with clean water.
4. Recharge the system with a fresh bath of MBS.

B. LONGER THAN 6 MONTHS (LONG TERM)
A long term shutdown (over 6 months) can be handled easily and efficiently. This involves the removal of elements from the system, soaking them in preservative solution (vertically if possible), and sealing in a plastic bag for future use.

1. The preservative solution should include:

■ 20% Glycerine
■ 2% Sodium Metabisulfite
■ pH 4.0-5.0

2. Remove the element from the vessel, drain the elements in a vertical position to avoid extensive dilution of the preservative solution.
3. Place the element in a preservative for a minimum of 15 minutes.
4. Remove the element from the preservative and allow it to drain for approximately 10 seconds, then place the element back in the bag.
5. Seal the bag either via heat seal or waterproof tape. This should be done well to prevent any leakage during storage/ transport.
6. Depending on the number of elements, the preservative solution may become diluted. In that event, add more preservative to maintain pH 4.0-5.0.
7. Element storage in 50°F – 59°F (10°C – 15°C) will increase storage life of the elements. If refrigeration is possible, it is highly recommended by Synder Filtration.
8. Contact Synder Filtration prior to storing ANY elements to discuss any remaining element warranty.

Also add link to download full PDF (Element Storage Procedure)

Depending on the element type (sanitary or industrial), we offer two different sets of guidelines for correctly installing our spiral-wound elements. These are included in each order, but can also be downloaded below or found on our website under Resources.

Sanitary Element Installation Guideline PDF

Industrial Element Installation Guideline PDF

We also have a tutorial showing how to install sanitary elements. This video explains the difference in element installation for sanitary elements with and without a “tail” polypropylene mesh outerwrap.

Membrane integrity can be compromised if the element is pushed beyond recommended operational limits. Operating the elements beyond the maximum inlet pressure and pressure drop may cause telescoping to occur and can potentially delaminate the membrane itself, compromising the mechanical strength of the element. Having a high inlet pressure in a vessel with multiple elements in series will cause lead elements to have excessively high flux and tail elements to have extremely low flux, leading to an increase in pressure drop across the elements. Examples of visible damage include cracks in the endcap, feed spacer net protruding from the concentrate channels, breaking of the fiberglass shell outerwrap, etc.

The maximum recommended pressure drop per element is 15 psi (103 kPa), with a maximum pressure drop of 60psi (414 kPa) per housing. The maximum inlet pressure for UF and MF elements is 120psi, while the maximum inlet pressure for NF elements is 600psi.

Synder Filtration guarantees all of spiral-wound membrane elements to be free from defects in design, materials or workmanship for a period of 12 months from date of installation or 18 months from date of shipment, whichever comes first, provided that no equipment malfunction, operational error, cleaning regimen error or negligence is responsible for element failure. Any written instructions that may be provided by Synder Filtration must be followed.

A membrane element covered under this guarantee will be replaced free of charge, F.O.B. Vacaville, California, for the first 90 days (from date of shipment). During the remaining warranty period of 275 days, failed element replacement will be on a prorated basis, F.O.B. Vacaville, California. The prorated value will be calculated as such: (Unit price of the element) X (number of days elapsed since startup/365 days).

For a copy of the complete element warranty policy, please email your sales representative or sales@synderfiltration.com.