SIDEM VEOLIA uses Kuntze Krypton® DIS Total to enhance membrane protection and operational efficiency at the Umm Al Quwain SWRO project in UAE largest desalination plant

Initial situation

SIDEM VEOLIA is an EPC which design and supply Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant in the Middle East (cf Umm Al Quwain project in United Arab Emirates – picture below). Reverse osmosis is a critical process for converting seawater into potable water, providing an essential supply of clean water in this arid region. However, the presence of chlorine in seawater due to pretreatment poses a significant challenge for the plant. Chlorine, while necessary for disinfection, is highly corrosive to RO membranes made of polyamide, leading to oxidative damage, reduced efficiency, and increased operational costs due to frequent membrane replacements.

The complex nature of seawater, with its high salinity and presence of organic and inorganic compounds, interferes with traditional chlorine measurement methods, making it difficult to obtain accurate readings using the installed colorimeters. SIDEM VEOLIA needed a more reliable solution to monitor chlorine levels in real-time and protect the sensitive RO membranes from damage.

Solution

To meet SIDEM VEOLIA’s challenges, the Kuntze Krypton® DIS Total measuring system was installed by the French Kuntze Partner C2Plus Instrumentation. This system provided a comprehensive solution for chlorine monitoring in seawater reverse osmosis operations, offering both precise and reliable measurement. The Krypton® DIS Total’s advanced sensor technology operates without requiring reagents or chemical additives, minimizing the risk of contamination and ensuring that chlorine levels are maintained within safe limits for the RO membranes.


The system’s real-time measurement capabilities provide fast response times, detecting any fluctuations in chlorine levels quickly, which is critical for protecting the sensitive RO membranes. With a fast response time (T90<60 seconds), it allows for immediate detection and adjustment, preventing oxidative damage and extending membrane life. The Krypton® DIS Total also operates without delicate polymer membranes, making it robust even in zero chlorine conditions, while ensuring continuous and accurate performance in the high-salinity seawater environment.

By automating dechlorination control, the Krypton® DIS Total not only protects the RO membranes but also enhances overall operational efficiency. SIDEM VEOLIA can now rely on a low-maintenance system that significantly reduces manual intervention and operating costs. Additionally, the system’s ability to perform reliably in harsh conditions, such as high salinity, allows for sustained compliance with regulatory standards, ensuring the plant’s long-term efficiency and effectiveness. This integrated approach enables the desalination plant to maintain high performance, safeguard membrane longevity, and lower maintenance demands, contributing to the plant’s sustainability and cost-efficiency.

About SIDEM VEOLIA

SIDEM VEOLIA is part of the Veolia Group, a global leader in water, desalination plant, and energy management solutions. The company specializes in designing, building, and operating desalination plants around the world. The SWRO plant in the Middle East are key project in the region, providing high-quality potable water to a growing population. Through its expertise in reverse osmosis technology, SIDEM VEOLIA ensures the efficient and sustainable production of drinking water in challenging environments, supporting regional development and environmental stewardship.