Dubai. In the summer of 2016. Modern desalination plant on the shores of the Arabian Gulf.

Desalination

Corrosion-resistant and robust thermoplastic piping systems are the optimal solution for future-proof, reliable desalination with increased system longevity.

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Securing Water Supply in Water-Scarce Areas

Desalination is the process of removing salt and other impurities from seawater to produce freshwater. It provides a reliable water supply in arid regions, reduces dependence on freshwater sources, and helps to ensure water security during droughts or in areas with limited freshwater resources. Corrosion-free, low-maintenance plastic piping systems, interoperable valves, and actuators are vital for the efficiency of desalination plants. Accurate measurement and control help secure operational performance, optimize water flow, and ensure a steady, cost-effective freshwater supply. These systems also ensure durability and reliability, reducing downtime and preventing leaks. 

Desalination - Isometric

Applications

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Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis (RO) is the cornerstone of desalination plants. By pushing water through a semi-permeable membrane, RO filters out salts and impurities, leading to top-quality water. Its energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness make RO vital for tackling global freshwater shortages and securing our water future.

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Filling of Tanks

Tanks are required to store liquid media in manufacturing and processing plants. We offer fast, reliable, safe tools for filling and emptying tanks. Our range comprises a broad spectrum of piping systems, including measurement and control technology, automatic and manual valves, and an extensive array of valves for demanding applications.

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Neutralization

In nearly every water treatment process, pH adjustment is essential for meeting treatment requirements, whether for wastewater, or drinking water. Proper measurements and control are crucial. Our solutions offer high process reliability and cost optimization, ensuring efficiency in this cost-intensive area.

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Media Filtration

Media filtration plays a crucial role in pre-treating water for desalination plants by removing suspended solids, silt, and debris. Clean water entering the RO system enhances efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, and improves overall water quality, essential for consistent and reliable freshwater production.

 

Innovations for Desalination

Our global team of Process Automation experts continuously develops new solutions to make Process Automation as easy and sustainable as possible - Discover our latest innovations for the water industry.

Hydrogen

Hydrogen - Energized Partnerships

Seawater holds immense promise as a water source for green hydrogen production. Our cutting-edge technologies enable the desalination of seawater to generate purified water through several treatment processes. We help our customers to achieve project milestones on-site by delivering state-of-the-art prefabrication solutions, such as fully pressure-tested skids according to their requirements. Thanks to strategically positioned prefabrication workshops worldwide, customers enjoy cost and time savings while ensuring system reliability with our proven and certified quality.

Related Systems

FAQs

What are the most common challenges for desalination plants, and how can they be solved using plastic piping systems?

Common challenges for desalination plants include corrosion, scaling, and maintenance issues with traditional metal piping systems. Plastic piping systems offer solutions by being corrosion-resistant, reducing scaling due to smoother internal surfaces, and requiring minimal maintenance. They also provide flexibility in installation and expansion, are lightweight for easier handling, and have longer lifespans. Additionally, plastic piping systems can enhance operational efficiency by minimizing pressure drops and ensuring consistent water flow rates, which is critical for maintaining optimal performance in desalination processes. Overall, their durability and low-maintenance properties contribute significantly to overcoming desalination plants' challenges.

How can desalination help to combat water scarcity?

Desalination helps combat water scarcity by providing a reliable and alternative source of freshwater. It allows communities to tap into abundant seawater resources that would otherwise be unusable due to high salinity. This technology is precious in arid regions or areas experiencing drought where natural freshwater sources are limited or depleted. By converting seawater into drinkable water through processes like reverse osmosis, desalination reduces dependency on rainfall and groundwater, ensuring a consistent supply of clean water for drinking, agriculture, and industrial use. This capability enhances water security, mitigates the impact of droughts, and supports sustainable development by alleviating pressures on existing freshwater sources.

How can Process Automation increase efficiency in desalination applications?

Process Automation can significantly increase efficiency in desalination applications by optimizing operational processes and enhancing control over critical parameters. Here are several ways it achieves this:

  • Real-time monitoring: Automation systems can continuously monitor critical parameters such as flow rates, pressure, temperature, or pH. This allows operators to detect deviations promptly and take corrective actions, minimizing downtime and optimizing performance.
  • Precision control: Automated systems can precisely regulate variables like intake flow or chemical dosing. This helps ensure the desalination process operates optimally, maximizing water production efficiency and minimizing energy consumption.
  • Preventive/predictive maintenance and diagnostics: Automation technologies can identify wear and tear on field-level devices early, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing the risk of costly repairs or unplanned shutdowns. Industrial Ethernet protocols like Modbus TCP, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP offer real-time device insights, enhancing plant efficiency.
  • Energy Efficiency: Automation systems can optimize energy usage by coordinating the operation of valves, actuators, and other equipment based on real-time demand. This helps minimize energy costs and reduce the overall carbon footprint of desalination plants.

Overall, process automation in desalination applications enhances efficiency by optimizing processes, improving reliability, reducing operational costs, and ensuring consistent, high-quality water production.

Georg Fischer Piping Systems Ltd

Ebnatstrasse 111

8201 Schaffhausen

Suiza

GF logo on the headquarters building