Cost and Performance of a Membrane Pilot Plant

Abstract

The cost and effectiveness of trihalomethane (THM) control and potable water production by a membrane process were investigated during a one‐year project at Flagler Beach, Fla., where the feedwater was a highly organic groundwater. Results of the study showed that the membrane system could control the formation of THMs for an extended period, producing a finished water that exceeded quality and quantity requirements. Construction and operating costs for a membrane plant at Flagler Beach would be about the same as for a conventional softening plant—but the finished water would be of a superior quality. The membrane plant was observed to be less labor intensive and easier to operate than a softening plant.