Reverse Osmosis: The Benchmark Technology for Ultra-Pure Water Production
Reverse osmosis is a high-performance membrane filtration process that can remove up to 99% of dissolved salts, bacteria, viruses, and organic impurities contained in water.
This technique is now essential for industrial, pharmaceutical, and hospital applications requiring ultra-pure and consistent water quality.
At SFEC, we design, build, and maintain custom reverse osmosis units, tailored to each of our clients’ needs: process water production, boiler feed, pharmaceutical water preparation, etc.
Our objectives:
Ensure stable water quality and compliance with the strictest standards
Optimize the overall efficiency of systems
Reduce water and energy consumption through high-performance and sustainable systems
Operating Principle of a Reverse Osmosis System
Reverse osmosis relies on water passing through a semi-permeable membrane under high pressure.
This membrane retains mineral salts, heavy metals, and microorganisms, allowing only water molecules to pass through.
Pre-filtration
Removal of particles and free chlorine to protect membranes
High-pressure Pumping
Pressurization of raw water to force passage through the membrane
Membrane Filtration
Separation of pure water (permeate) and concentrate (reject)
Post-treatment
Final adjustment (pH, UV sterilization, decarbonation) depending on the application
Our Custom Reverse Osmosis Solutions
SFEC offers a wide range of reverse osmosis equipment adapted to all types of industrial and sanitary constraints:
Compact Industrial Reverse Osmosis Systems
- Flow rates from a few hundred to several thousand liters/hour
- Stainless steel or polypropylene structures
- Automatic control and intuitive interfaces
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Double-Pass Reverse Osmosis Systems
- For ultra-pure water requirements
- Total salt rejection and conductivity reduction
- Compatible with pharmaceutical and microelectronic applications
Reverse Osmosis Systems for Pharmaceutical Water (PW, WFI)
- Compliant with GMP, FDA, and European Pharmacopoeia standards
- Full traceability and documentary validation
- Integration into electropolished stainless steel distribution loops
Reverse Osmosis Systems for Pharmaceutical Water (PW, WFI)
- Reduction of reject water and water consumption
- Concentrate recovery for improved overall efficiency
Advantages of Reverse Osmosis
Reverse osmosis is an ecological and economical solution to ensure high-quality water and protect your installations.
Near-total elimination of salts and pollutants
Up to 99% of ions, heavy metals, and contaminants are retained by the membrane.
Production of pure and consistent water
Controlled water quality, adapted to the most sensitive processes.
Reduction of maintenance and descaling costs
Increased protection for downstream circuits and equipment.
Compatibility with other processes (softening, UV, EDI)
Easy integration with softening, UV sterilization, or EDI for a complete treatment chain.
Low energy consumption thanks to recovery technologies
Optimized systems with energy recovery and high-efficiency pumps.
Areas of Application
Reverse osmosis is used in many industrial and collective contexts:
- Pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry
- Hospitals and clinics (sterilization, autoclaves, laboratories)
- Food and beverage industry (rinsing water, formulation)
- Steam generation plants and boilers
- Industrial process water treatment
- Demineralized water production for double-pass reverse osmosis
- Water preparation for EDI systems or purified water loops
Questions and Answers
What is the Difference between Reverse Osmosis and Demineralization?
Demineralization removes ions through ion exchange, whereas reverse osmosis physically retains them through a membrane.
Is Reverse Osmosis Water Potable?
Yes, but it is generally too low in minerals for prolonged daily consumption.
What Maintenance Does an Industrial Reverse Osmosis System Require?
Mainly the periodic replacement of pre-filters and cleaning of membranes depending on the inlet water quality.
How Long Do Membranes Last?
Between 3 and 5 years, depending on raw water quality and maintenance performed.
Is a Softener Needed before a Reverse Osmosis System?
Yes, prior softening prevents scaling and extends membrane lifespan.
Can Reverse Osmosis and UV be Combined?
Absolutely, it’s a common combination to ensure perfect microbiological quality.
SFEC, global water treatment expert
Reverse osmosis naturally integrates into the complete water treatment chains designed by SFEC:
Do you want to produce pure and safe water for your processes?
Our experts advise you and design your custom reverse osmosis solution.
Do you want to produce pure and safe water for your processes?
Our experts advise you and design your custom reverse osmosis solution.