Conventional spiral wound membrane elements used in the dairy industry experience a considerable amount of bypass flow in the space between the element and the housing wall. Since this portion of the feed solution does not contact the membrane surface inside the element, pump energy spent on the bypass flow does not contribute to the overall concentration process. In this presentation, we will focus on several case studies that assess the amount of bypass flow and power consumption required for the Optum RO element compared to caged and other shelled elements when operated at similar pressure drops and recoveries. Results of these studies have allowed for the quantification of bypass flow and power consumption for each element design which, in turn, has allowed the Optum RO element to become the first in its class to receive a custom energy-saving incentive from Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy Program.

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