Reverse Osmosis: an unique system for a perfect coffee

15 Abril 2016 - News

What it may look like a complex system, in reality is a simple filtration process used for years to desalinate water. The same treatment is able to remove the 99% of the dissolved solids, as small particles, minerals or other contaminants out of water by forcing it through a filter (a membrane).

Water output can be re-balanced by using a bend-back valve (bypass) or remineralization (remin-cartridge), in order to obtain the best water quality (regardless of the makeup of the incoming water). To monitor the quality of the output, an online conductivity indicator is usually provided (PPM).

When water is heated, or converted to steam, it leaves impurities behind, such as hardness minerals. These impurities cling to the solid surfaces they come in contact with, and over time, can build up and cause problems:

Hard scale build-up
Increased operating costs for de-scaling and maintenance
Increased downtime
Inefficient operation causing higher energy costs

Scale causes equipment down time, reduces efficiency and affects both water level and temperature controls. Just 3mm of scale = 25% energy loss!

Scale contaminated level indicators may cause overflow of the equipment
Scale will typically cause longer heating times and incorrect (lowered) temperatures
Service calls for scale problems may cost hundreds of pounds, including travel, parts and labor

While all RO Systems work the same way, look alike and have the same basic components, it is important to notice that the real difference is the quality of the filters and membranes inside of it.

Nuova Ricambi has on his catalogue a SP2 system which has a high-flow membrane in TFC (Thin Film Composite): the incoming water under pressure is forced through the microscopic pores of the membrane (permeate), leaving the larger solid particles and heavy contaminants upstream of the membrane which is continuously flushed by water discharge (concentrate):

Dual Port: The system has two outputs, one for the permeate for service water (washers, steamer or ice maker) and one for the preparation of espresso coffee or for drinks made with syrup (post-mix);
Accumulation tank (9l capacity) or optional expandable tank (75l capacity);
Mixing valve: the adjustment TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) for maintaining a certain concentration of salts in order to obtain a quality product;
Pre-filtering system: The percentage of water that is not treated by the membranes is still "pre-filter" upstream by a HF 37 "Carbon Block Cartridge" (5 micron, to remove chlorine, tastes and odors and to reduce the cysts ).
The whole system works without the use of electricity, but thanks to the same water pressure input, by an adjustable bypass.
Production capacity: 760 liters / day (Calculated with water temperature at 25°C inlet and a pressure of 50 psi);
Desalination: through adjustment of the TDS inbuilt in the system or through T mineralizing cartridge with head ROG

The twin high production reverse osmosis membrane cartridges efficiently reduce dissolved mineral salts and contaminants that can cause corrosion and scale build-up: these are the main advantages offered by this system:

Better tasting specialty coffee with adjustable precision blending valve.
Sanitary Quick Change (SQC) cartridge design helps reduce the possibility of contamination during change-outs.
Patented cartridge interconnect system with quick and easy cartridge change-outs.
No spills, no mess.
Delivers a sufficient amount of water, even during peak time, from a built-in 2.5 gallon (9l) pressure tank and a remote 20-gallon (75 l) storage tank
Rugged rust and corrosion-resistant bracket design allows system to be wall mounted.
Pressure gauge indicates outlet supply pressure.
Keeps running during high-demand periods and power outages with automatic non-electrical by-pass.
Cartridges for reverse osmosis membrane with a double for increased production
Effective reduction of minerals, salts, and contaminants which can cause corrosion and the formation of scale.