The following aspects can be considered to determine whether the filter element of the integrated sterile water treatment equipment needs to be replaced:
1. Water quality monitoring indicators
First, the filter element can be judged whether it needs to be replaced by monitoring the water quality of the treated water. Regularly test the microbial content, turbidity, dissolved solids and other indicators in the water. If the number of microorganisms exceeds the standard, the turbidity increases, or the dissolved solids increase, it may mean that the filtering effect of the filter element has decreased and needs to be replaced. For example, when sterile water treatment equipment is mainly used in the pharmaceutical industry, the control requirements for microorganisms are extremely strict. Once the microbial content in the water exceeds the prescribed standard, it should be considered that the filter element may no longer be able to effectively filter microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses.
2. Pressure changes
Observing the pressure changes during the operation of the equipment is also an important method to judge the status of the filter element. As the filter element is used for a longer time, impurities will gradually accumulate on its surface, resulting in increased resistance to water flow. When the difference between the inlet pressure and the outlet pressure of the equipment increases significantly, it means that the filter element may be blocked and needs to be replaced. Generally speaking, a critical value of the pressure difference can be set. When this value is reached, it prompts that the filter element needs to be replaced. For example, in the initial operation state, the pressure difference may be only a few psi. When the pressure difference increases to more than ten or even dozens of psi, it should be taken seriously.
3. Use time and water volume
The service life of the filter element is usually related to the use time and water volume. Equipment manufacturers generally provide a rough use time range and upper limit of water volume according to different types of filter elements. If the equipment has been running continuously for a long time or the water volume treated is close to or exceeds this upper limit, then even if there is no obvious abnormality in indicators such as water quality and pressure for the time being, you should consider replacing the filter element. For example, some precision filter elements are recommended to be used for 3 months or treat a certain number of cubic meters of water. When this period or water volume is reached, the filter element needs to be replaced to ensure the continued stable operation of the equipment.
4. Appearance inspection
In some cases, the appearance of the filter element can be inspected to assist in determining whether it needs to be replaced. If you find obvious dirt, discoloration or damage on the surface of the filter element after opening the equipment, it is likely that the filter element is no longer working properly. For example, some filter elements may become dark in color after being used for a period of time due to the adsorption of a large amount of organic matter, or cracks may appear due to physical damage, which indicates that the filter element needs to be replaced.
In summary, through various methods such as water quality monitoring, pressure changes, usage time and water volume treated, and appearance inspection, it is possible to more accurately determine whether the filter element of the integrated sterile water treatment equipment needs to be replaced to ensure that the equipment can always provide high-quality sterile water.
