Membrane Life

[vikingHB]

I have the opportunity to buy an older RO which has been stored for 5 years. The membranes have been well wrapped, and stored on a dry area.
Do you think they would still be usable. I guess if it would smell a little funky, this would be my first clue, but anything else. I have not seen them yet.

[Thad Blaisdell]

No they would not

[tuckermtn]

but new membranes are not that expensive. what size and number of membranes?

[vikingHB]

but new membranes are not that expensive. what size and number of membranes?

I don't know what size, and I believe it has 3 membranes. I still have to go out, and see the unit.

[Bucket Head]

If the RO is in decent shape, I would'nt hesitate to get it. After you use it, you'll be tickled about the purchase! However, I would take the membranes and mount them on the sugarhouse wall and only use them as a 'visual aid' while explaining the RO to sugarhouse visitors. Proper membrane storage involves placing them in a sealed PVC tube, with a membrane preserative solution. They are stored 'wet'. Like Eric says, membranes are not too expensive. New ones will last for years if you do the proper cleaning and storage on them. You won't be "tickled" if your first batch of syrup tastes like whatever off-flavor has developed inside those membranes.

Steve

[vikingHB]

but new membranes are not that expensive. what size and number of membranes?

The unit has 3 membranes, and they are 4" X 40".

[wiam]

That size xle membrane from Atlantic Supply cost me $225 each last year. I would recommend these.

[Brent]

Membrane storage calls for them to be in an inhibitor solution of SMBS (sodium meta-bisulfite ) If they were impecable prepared and put down they might be OK but if you get an tank full of sap on opening day and they're messed up, you don't need the panic. I'd order the news ones, XLE-4040 as suggested above.