Using Effective Wellfield Management to Mitigate Fouling During Conversion of Lime Softening to RO

NSID commissioned a new RO system in 2016 to replace their LS WTP. During the commissioning process, the source water quality at the facility was found to be unsuitable for the membranes start-up, despite previous performance tests demonstrating that the water quality as sufficient for membranes. This paper will discuss the challenges and solutions of commissioning new membrane systems with existing infrastructure, the importance of well monitoring, and demonstrate how well management through operational changes can eliminate the need for expensive pretreatment. The paper will also discuss best practices for well monitoring and control that may help other utilities avoid issues when implementing a new RO system on an existing well system.