Flow Restrictor +91 9160673696
A reverse osmosis (RO) flow restrictor is an essential component of any reverse osmosis system that creates back pressure on the membrane to regulate water flow, ensure efficient filtration, and minimize water waste.
Function and Importance
Creates Back Pressure: The primary function is to maintain adequate pressure within the membrane housing. This forces the water through the semi-permeable membrane, separating impurities from the pure water.
Optimizes Efficiency: It ensures the water spends the necessary amount of time in contact with the membrane for effective contaminant removal. Without it, the pressure drops too low, and the system fails to filter properly.
Controls Waste Ratio: The restrictor helps maintain the correct ratio of reject (drain) water to purified water, typically around 3 or 4 parts waste to 1 part pure water, preventing excessive water wastage.
Protects the System: By managing water flow and pressure, it helps prevent pressure build-up from damaging the membrane or other components
Sizing and Replacement
Flow restrictors are rated by their flow rate in milliliters per minute (ml/min or cc/min). The correct size depends on the production rate of your specific RO membrane, measured in gallons per day (GPD).
Sizing Guide: The flow rate of the restrictor (in ml/min converted to GPD) should be approximately 3 to 4 times higher than the GPD rating of your RO membrane. Common sizes include 300 ml/min for 24 GPD membranes, 450-550 ml/min for 75-100 GPD membranes, and larger sizes for commercial systems.
Replacement: Flow restrictors can get clogged with scale buildup over time, leading to poor performance or foul smells. It is recommended to replace the flow restrictor every time you replace your RO membrane, typically every 2 years, to ensure optimal system performance.
Installation
Flow restrictors are typically inline devices with quick-connect fittings for easy installation. They are installed in the drain (waste) line tubing of the RO system, specifically after the membrane housing and before the drain connection
