AWWA MTC61125

Though there has been rapid growth in the low-pressure membrane market for drinking water treatment, the application of this technology to large water utilities has been limited. Hydraulic and water quality performance data gathered during a six-month pilot study in Kansas City has demonstrated that retrofitting granular media filters with low-pressure membranes in large plants can be an important tool to meet ever-increasing regulatory requirements while substantially increasing plant capacity. The overall objective of this project was to identify and examine the key issues related to retrofitting existing granular media filters with membrane media filters in large water utilities. There were several specific objectives to the project. The first was to develop full-scale membrane system design for retrofitting the Kansas City Water Services Department (KCWSD) water treatment plant with membranes selected for specific characteristics that make them well suited for the application. These characteristics include high permeability, high fiber packing density, and chemical compatibility. The second specific objective was to develop conceptual layouts detailing both gravity-fed and pumped membrane retrofit scenarios at KCWSD based on the design parameters developed during pilot testing. This exercise included an analysis of integration issues such as the use of existing infrastructure, ancillary equipment requirements, membrane integrity testing protocols, and operator training requirements. The third specific objective was to develop cost estimates for retrofitting existing granular media filters with membrane media filters at the KCWSD water treatment plant. Discussion of the approach used includes testing site, membranes tested, and testing protocol. Includes tables, figures.