AWWA MTC53662

Using a recent case study, this paper will focus on specific issues that areimportant to small systems when implementing membrane filtration. The Town ofLincoln has recently completed design of a 1.6-mgd microfiltration plant--thefirst to be used for a surface water source in Massachusetts. This small systemfaced several challenges in implementing membranes from the concept developmentphase, through piloting and design, and overall public acceptance. These issuesincluded automated/unattended operation, staff qualification and trainingrequirements, site area constraints, and limited funding. Perhaps the mostsignificant issue was satisfying state regulatory officials in the absence ofexisting state guidelines for pilot testing or design of membrane systems. Forsmall systems, it is well documented that membrane filtration can be practical,reliable, and cost-effective. This has resulted in a highly competitive marketfor equipment suppliers, and with this has come an increase in the number ofsystems available on the market--all of which are proprietary. Achieving acompetitive situation while minimizing project costs (e.g., limiting pilottesting costs) is one of the more unique challenges facing small systems. Inaddition, this paper will discuss some of the other issues that are also moresignificant in smaller systems, including: determining the appropriate designflux rate that strikes the best balance between up-front equipment cost, longterm membrane life, and chemical cleaning frequency; designing low-maintenancebuildings and minimizing the building footprint, while also providing for futureexpansion; cost-effectively addressing redundancy requirements (number of skids;number of modules per skid); providing for membrane integrity testing to satisfywater quality objectives and regulatory concerns; incorporating cost-effectivetreatment systems to increase overall process recovery and decrease the quantityof waste backwash water for final disposal (particularly since many small systemsdo not have public sewer systems); and, presenting "new" and unfamiliartechnology and facilities to state regulators and the public to gain projectacceptance. Includes 3 references, tables, figures.