ro problem

[maplefarmer]

tried my ro today for 1st run of season, it will not build any pressure on the high side, and the permeate [dump] side is pure sap? have did the dye test, permeate shows clear, concentrate side has color. pulled membranes checked o rings seem fine, and membrane doesn't look cracked or split? any ideas i could look for or try?

[to100]

Do you have a needle valve to open and close, this will regulate flow. You want a 50/50% close down perm some to start condensate flow.
If you give more info on your set up, then others will help. Get manual from manufacture.
Good luck

[maplefarmer]

ro is a ray gingrich model 250 gas powered

[Russell Lampron]

If the permeate is pure sap it's bypassing the membranes somehow or the membranes are cracked. It's not building any high pressure because there isn't any resistance to the flow.

[OGDENS SUGAR BUSH]

make sure you are feeding the membrane from the right end

[maple flats]

I've helped many to solve issues with a Ray Gingerich RO, unfortunately I'm not seeing an answer. Have you changed anything since last year? What do you have the 2 needle valves set at? The big one should only be open (closed is fully clockwise) about maybe 1-1.5 turns, for now fully close the small needle valve. If that won't give you pressure you may need either a new high pressure pump or a new needle valve, as long as the U shaped gaskets have the open side to of the U face towards the membrane, not towards the top.
How old is the RO? Once you show pressure on the gauge by the pre-filter, do you notice any change in the flow out the concentrate and permeate hoses when you engage the pressure pump?

[MapleMark753]

Is your high pressure pump running? And, does it have oil (theres an indicator oil window to check level). I think its 30wt non-detergent oil. I can hear mine (electric) and can tell pretty much if everything is ok at least by how it sounds. With gas because it may be louder it may be more difficult to hear.
take care, Mark

[Russell Lampron]

You guys are all talking about adjusting the high pressure. Did you miss the OP's statement that the permeate was pure sap? That's a membrane leakage or sealing problem!

[Walling's Maple Syrup]

Is the end plug in the bottom end of the membrane? It doesn't sound it.

[bowhunter]

If the o-rings are good and the plumbing is correct the membrane is damaged. You probably can't see the damage because it's internal. Are you sure the plumbing is correct? It sounds like you could have the permeate and concentrate switched.