Treatment Technologies

    Modular Desalination Companies

    Containerized and skid-mounted desalination units for remote sites, emergency response, and rapid deployment.

    17 providers

    This page is a good fit if you need:

    • Cartridge Filters or Flat Sheet UF Membranes capabilities
    • Suppliers with food-beverage sector experience
    • Providers operating in United Kingdom or China
    Providers
    17
    Verified
    4
    Countries
    11

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    Showing 1-17 of 17

    17 results from 17 matched providers

    Ecosystems International logo

    Ecosystems International

    Verified
    Indonesia51-200 employees
    Flat Sheet Microfiltration Units · Hollow Fiber MF Systems · Ceramic Microfiltration Modules +80 more
    apac · china · europe +3 more

    PT Ecosystems International (PT ESI) was established at Jakarta on 21st November 2006. We are an industrial effluent treatment systems integrator specializing in electrocoagulation (EC), a unique waste water treatment profile. PT ESI has capabilities in designing complete waste water treatment solutions by combining various effluent treatment systems such as the electro-coagulation, biological, chemical processes and membrane filtration, offering its customers a wide and comprehensive range of solutions, tailored to suit their various needs – ranging from basic effluent treatment for discharge to effluent recycling for water reuse. The Company is experienced in handling the design, engineering, procurement, construction and operation of new Effluent Treatment Plants (“ETP”) and possesses expertise in retrofitting existing ETP to increase the flow rate and treatment capability without any major infrastructure increase PT ESI is also a premier waste water treatment service company specializing in handling waste water generated from Exploration (Drilling) and Produced Water. Customers in Indonesia include major Oil & Gas companies such as Pertamina, Exxon, Chevron, Petro-China and Medco. Operations in Indonesia are provided by both mobile and fixed units. At drill sites where waste-water recycling is required, PT ESI supplement these treatment units with skid mounted mobile Reverse Osmosis systems. The technologies and solutions employed by PT ESI are developed in-house and examples of these are its proprietary Trident™ Electro Contaminant Removal (“ECR”) system, the Stage Contaminant Removal (“SCR”) process and Mobile On-Site Waste-Water Treatment (“OWT”) units

    Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
    Ultrafiltration (UF) Systems
    Multi-media Filtration (MMF) Systems
    +63 more
    agriculture
    manufacturing
    Brine Consulting logo

    Brine Consulting

    Verified
    Netherlands1-50 employees
    Mechanical Vapor Recompression (MVR) · Atmospheric Evaporator · Spray Evaporator +130 more
    apac · china · europe +3 more

    BRINE CONSULTING delivers senior-level strategy, technical design, and actionable insight across the full lifecycle of water-related challenges. We support clients with advisory and due diligence, advanced brine management and resource recovery, industrial and municipal water reuse, and MLD/ZLD systems. Our team also leads ESG and climate-resilience strategy, innovation scouting, and international development and PPP advisory. With deep specialization in desalination, brine valorization, circular economy models, and high-impact infrastructure, we help organizations turn water and waste streams into opportunities, providing clear thinking, rapid delivery, and solutions built for real-world results.

    Activated Carbon Filtration
    Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
    Ultrafiltration (UF) Systems
    +85 more
    manufacturing
    energy-production
    Hangzhou Realize Technology Co., LTD. logo

    Hangzhou Realize Technology Co., LTD.

    Verified
    China1-50 employees
    Ultrasonic Cavitation Systems · Conventional Activated Sludge · SBR, MBR, IFAS +3 more
    china

    HANGZHOU REALIZE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. is a technology enterprise. The company collaborates with domestic and international universities such as Beijing University of Technology, Tsinghua University, and Berlin University of Technology to address the challenges of enhancing anaerobic efficiency and nitrogen removal in high-ammonia nitrogen wastewater. The core technologies foucs on energy-saving denitrification and enhanced green methane production. These two technologies can increase production efficiency of green methane by 20% and reduce costs of wastewater denitrification by 60%.

    Process Water Treatment
    Wastewater Treatment
    Advanced Treatment Technologies
    +8 more
    manufacturing
    energy-production
    Hainan Litree Water Purification Technology Industry Co., Ltd. logo

    Hainan Litree Water Purification Technology Industry Co., Ltd.

    Verified
    China200+ employees
    Tubular Ultrafiltration Units · Hollow Fiber UF Modules · Flat Sheet UF Membranes +17 more
    apac · china · europe +3 more

    Litree: Pioneering Ultrafiltration for a Water-Secure World Founded in 1992, Litree has dedicated 30+ years to redefining water purification through ultrafiltration (UF) membrane technology—our core expertise and passion立升(Litree). As a global high-tech enterprise rooted in independent innovation, we’ve evolved from a membrane R&D startup to one of the world’s leading water problem solvers, with over 146 core patents and state-of-the-art manufacturing hubs in Haikou and Suzhou, China立升(Litree). Our signature hollow fiber UF membranes are engineered to deliver unmatched performance: 0.01μm precision removes 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, and contaminants while preserving essential minerals—striking the perfect balance between purity and health立升(Litree). This technology powers our diverse solutions, from residential whole-house systems to large-scale municipal projects and industrial wastewater treatment, all designed for sustainability and cost-efficiency. What truly sets us apart is our commitment to making safe water accessible. We’ve completed projects serving 50,000+ residents with centralized purification systems that cut construction costs and footprint by 50% compared to traditional setups—proof that advanced technology can also be affordable. Today, our solutions reach 60+ countries, supporting 3,000+ industrial clients and millions of households worldwide. At Litree, water isn’t just our business—it’s our mission. We believe every drop matters, and we’ll keep pushing boundaries to create a future where clean, safe water is a universal right, not a privilege

    Ultrafiltration (UF) Systems
    Membrane Filtration Technologies
    pH Adjustment and Neutralization
    +64 more
    agriculture
    manufacturing
    Sidonwater S.L. logo

    Sidonwater S.L.

    Verified
    Spain1-50 employees
    Reverse Osmosis (RO)
    apac · europe · latam +2 more
    5 case studies·3 datasheets

    Sidon Water is a water technology company specialised in non-chemical water treatment and system optimisation. We develop and deploy advanced solutions that prevent and remove limescale, reduce fouling and corrosion, and improve the performance of cooling towers, industrial water systems, and reverse osmosis and desalination installations. Sidon Water works with industrial clients, commercial building owners, OEMs and EPC partners to deliver measurable improvements in energy efficiency, operational reliability and asset lifetime. Our activities cover the full cycle from analysis and pilot projects to system integration, commissioning and long-term performance optimisation.

    Electrochemical Technologies
    Process Water Treatment
    Wastewater Treatment
    +4 more
    agriculture
    manufacturing
    RCI Aquatech logo

    RCI Aquatech

    Verified
    India1-50 employees
    Mechanical Vapor Recompression (MVR) · Multiple Effect Evaporator (MEE) · Atmospheric Evaporator +76 more
    apac · europe · latam +1 more
    1 case studies

    Founded in 2009, formerly known as Red Circle Industries (RCI), RCI Aquatech creates custom wastewater solutions based on end users’ requirements, which allow for optimally chosen components resulting in a solution that meets or exceeds customer needs. RCI Aquatech’s wastewater treatment systems combine necessary process technologies to reach required state and federal discharge limits and comply with local regulations. Our systems focus on removal of pollutants such as heavy metals, greases, suspended solids, oils, high salt content, toxic compounds, phosphates and more. Using chemical-physical treatment (coagulation, flocculation, and sedimentation), biological treatment (aerobic and anaerobic) and wet chemical oxidation (persistent or toxic organics). Our expertise comprises the following technologies:  Filtration & softening systems  Physicochemical treatment (coagulation-flocculation)  Membrane filtration (UF & RO)  Ion exchange  Chemical oxidation  Biological treatment  Zero liquid discharge (ZLD) system

    Activated Carbon Filtration
    Microfiltration (MF) Systems
    Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
    +52 more
    manufacturing
    chemicals-pharmaceuticals
    PNR ITALIA Srl logo

    PNR ITALIA Srl

    Verified
    Italy51-200 employees
    Spray Evaporator · Self-cleaning Screen Filters
    apac · europe · latam +2 more
    19 case studies

    We produce a comprehensive range of spraying solutions, encompassing everything from small-scale nozzles to large industrial spraying systems. Our diverse product line includes various types of nozzles tailored to meet the specific requirements of every application and customer need. The company was established in Milan in November 1968, focusing on distributing parts and components for fire protection systems. Over time, we expanded our offerings to include a diverse range of industrial sprayers tailored to various applications. In addition to our distribution and manufacturing of fire protection system components and industrial sprayers, we specialize in designing and producing pneumatic spray nozzles for industrial use and tank washing nozzles. Our product line also encompasses a variety of complementary accessories essential for industrial washing, including filters, spray guns, and hoses. Furthermore, we offer ejectors, blower nozzles, swivel joints, and hose clamps to provide comprehensive solutions for our customers' needs. PNR Italia is part of the Tecomec Group and oversees four other affiliated companies to form PNR Company, a consolidated reality with a significant presence on the market.

    Microfiltration (MF) Systems
    Disinfection Technologies
    Disinfection Chemicals
    +7 more
    agriculture
    manufacturing
    Liquid X logo

    Liquid X

    Verified
    United Arab Emirates1-50 employees
    Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) Filters · GO–Polymer Composites · Cartridge Filters
    mea

    Liquid X is a water technology consultancy and commercialization platform focused on accelerating the deployment of next-generation filtration solutions, with a core emphasis on graphene-based water treatment. Founded to address the gap between breakthrough innovation and real-world implementation, Liquid X operates at the intersection of advanced material science, water infrastructure, and market deployment. While significant advances in water technologies exist globally, many remain confined to laboratories or early-stage ventures. Liquid X bridges this gap by identifying, validating, and commercializing high-impact solutions—particularly graphene-based filtration systems—within the GCC and wider MENA region. Our consultancy model is built around a full lifecycle approach: from technology scouting and technical evaluation to pilot design, validation, and scaled deployment. We work with asset owners, governments, and enterprises to translate emerging technologies into practical, site-ready solutions. This includes designing pilot programs with measurable performance metrics, enabling data-driven decision-making, and ensuring that innovations are proven under real operating conditions before scale-up. A key focus of Liquid X is the commercialization of graphene-based water filters. Graphene, a two-dimensional material with exceptional strength, permeability, and adsorption capacity, has the potential to fundamentally transform water treatment. Its nano-scale structure allows precise separation of contaminants while enabling faster water flow and lower energy consumption compared to conventional systems. Through strategic partnerships with innovators, researchers, and manufacturers, Liquid X is actively working to bring graphene filtration technologies from concept to market. These systems are being developed to address some of the most critical water challenges, including the removal of PFAS and emerging contaminants, heavy metals, dissolved solids, and industrial pollutants—while significantly reducing waste and energy intensity associated with traditional technologies such as reverse osmosis. Our role extends beyond technology development. Liquid X supports the full commercialization journey, including: Technical due diligence and performance validation Pilot implementation and third-party verification Integration with existing infrastructure Development of scalable deployment models Coordination with EPC contractors, facility managers, and regulators Ongoing monitoring, compliance, and optimization By operating as a vendor-agnostic platform, we ensure that solutions are selected based on performance, suitability, and long-term value—not vendor bias. The MENA region faces some of the world’s most acute water challenges, including scarcity, high desalination dependence, and rising energy costs. Liquid X is positioned to introduce more efficient, decentralized, and sustainable alternatives through advanced filtration technologies. Graphene-based systems, in particular, offer the potential for lightweight, modular, and energy-efficient treatment solutions that can be deployed at scale across residential, commercial, and industrial applications. At its core, Liquid X is not just a consultancy—it is an enabler of the next generation of water infrastructure. By combining deep regional expertise with global innovation networks, we are helping transform how water is treated, distributed, and consumed. Our mission is to accelerate the transition from legacy, resource-intensive systems to smarter, more sustainable water solutions—unlocking the full potential of graphene and other advanced materials to build a more water-secure future.

    Activated Carbon Filtration
    Nanofiltration (NF) Systems
    Point-of-Use (POU) Filtration Systems
    +11 more
    food-beverages
    hospitality-tourism
    AJ Engineering & Construction Services Ltd logo

    AJ Engineering & Construction Services Ltd

    United Kingdom

    AJ Engineering & Construction Services Ltd provide a wide spectrum of engineering services ranging from steel fabrication and CNC machining to cladding and civil engineering, with our highly experienced team we provide on-time, on-budget quality solutions. From our bases in Forres and Fort William, and a team accustomed to travel we can meet our client’s needs wherever required. Having worked on various water and wastewater treatment projects for the past 25 years we have developed a great working relationship with water companies across the UK. Our in-house capabilities allow us to offer a turnkey service to our clients from reactive maintenance and manufacturing to planned infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects. Many of the projects we undertake in the water sector are within water treatment and wastewater treatment plants where cleanliness is paramount, all our water sector site teams hold certification and Water Hygiene cards. Our range of services collated into one means that we can take on multiple discipline contracts and deliver them as one which provides our clients with a number of advantages. It removes the need to have multiple contractors on site at once. Benefits in cost savings passed down on procuring large amounts of steel for a side wide project. Little risk of dimensional discrepancies between contractors We work alongside framework delivery partners throughout the UK providing the services below; Steel portal frame buildings (design, fabrication, erection & cladding) Design, manufacture and installation of pipe bridges Design, manufacture and installation of site wide access metalwork (walkways, access stairs, ladders etc) Design, manufacture and installation of modular water buildings transportable by road. Design of various process tanks, pipework and pumps. Fabrication of tanks and pipework (stainless and carbon) Mechanical Installation Modular Treatment Buildings and Mechanical Fit-out SR2 rated steel enclosures (quicker than GRP Kiosks) We appreciate how important quality and cleanliness is in the water sector and we are proud that we have completely segregated facilities for stainless steel and carbon steel. In addition to this we are also approved under the regulations 31(4)(A) of the water supply regulations 2016 to supply stainless steel and pipework fabrications to the drinking water sector.

    Networks - Sewerage
    Asset Maintenance & Rehabilitation
    AUMA Actuators Limited logo

    AUMA Actuators Limited

    United Kingdom

    Based in Clevedon, near Bristol, North Somerset, AUMA Actuators Limited is the UK subsidiary of the global AUMA Reister GmbH and Co., the world’s largest manufacturer of electric valve actuators, operating on every continent, with 2,300 employees in 30 locations. AUMA Actuators Limited is the UK arm of global manufacturer AUMA Reister GmbH, manufacturing daily over 500 electric actuators for valves, penstocks and dampers. A trusted supplier to the UK water and wastewater industry, AUMA holds supply and maintenance frameworks with all major UK water companies. With a UK-based team of experts and a £2.5 million inventory held locally, AUMA ensures rapid response and fast-track call-off for urgent project requirements. AUMA provides electric actuators – including variable speed, explosion-proof and underwater variants – plus gearboxes for flow control across water and wastewater networks, backed by comprehensive service, maintenance, and support tailored to the specific needs of the UK water sector. Key Products • SQ and SA part and multi-turn actuators for Class A and B operation, torques from 10 Nm to 32,000 Nm extendable to 675,000 Nm with optional gearboxes. • SQR and SAR modulating actuators provide Class C control up to 1500 starts/hr. Torques from 15 Nm to 2,400 Nm depending on model chosen. • SQV and SAV variable speed actuators provide accurate close control of valve position and flow rate, with soft-open and soft-close ability that protect ageing assets while retaining speed of operation and emergency functions. Tripping torques from 10 Nm to 1000 Nm. Modulating versions SQRV and SARV are also available • Profox – compact actuators for part- and multi-turn applications – easy to set up, reliable and tough, for torque ranges up to 600 Nm (part turn) and 100 Nm (multi-turn) For explosive atmospheres, AUMA actuators are available with full ATEX certification. Please ask us for details. AUMA equipment is built for the digital world. Full Fieldbus integration, the ability to integrate and consolidate other plant signals and bidirectional control makes AUMA an ideal project partner, while the modular approach and versatile configuration of AUMA equipment makes it ideal when you are considering automation of existing assets.

    Reservoirs - Treated Water
    Accreditations
    FLI Precast Solutions logo

    FLI Precast Solutions

    United Kingdom

    FLI Precast Solutions (formerly FLI Carlow) provide design, engineering and manufacturing services for the off-site manufacture of specialist concrete infrastructure and attenuation systems. Our markets include Water, Wastewater, Energy and Storm Attenuation in the UK & Ireland and bespoke projects globally. SERVICES INCLUDE Design, engineering and manufacturing services for the off-site manufacture of specialist concrete infrastructure and attenuation systems. Design to national and international water industry standards and our semi-precast modular designs make us the industry leader in off-site concrete engineering and manufacture. By early involvement and integrating with our clients’ design teams we can accelerate and improve design optimisation and reduce cost. The value is in the solution, and off-site manufacturing and fabrication leads to higher efficiencies and lower risks and costs. Framework agreements enable us to add more value through collaboration, innovation, economies of scale, supply chain partnering and cost management. Our products and designs are engineered to provide solutions to many challenges facing our clients: water retention, water storage, water conveyancing, water management, water treatment, fire-resistance criteria, chemical resistance parameters, infrastructural products, retaining walls, coastal erosion, decorative walls, to name a few. We are a solutions provider using innovative off-site concrete engineering and our industry leading semi-precast modular designs. The company is part of the FLI Group which is a diversified group of companies providing environmental solutions, services and technologies to private and public sector customers in the UK, France, Ireland and throughout the world. PRODUCTS INCLUDE Service reservoirs Process settlement tanks (PST / HST / FST / etc) Storm & attenuation tanks (network or site based) Process structures (ASP / TSR / GAC / RGF / etc) MCC service foundations Bund wall system Chambers Channel & lids Comms chambers Multi-purpose chambers Bespoke culverts Holding tanks Barriers Demountable fence supports (international airport approved) Ballast blocks Dry flow channelling Foundation bases Blast fence supports

    Precast Concrete
    Concrete Works
    Siltbuster Group logo

    Siltbuster Group

    United Kingdom

    Established for over 20 years, the Siltbuster Limited provides rapidly deployable, “modular off the shelf” water treatment solutions to the construction, industrial and municipal markets, with a client base ranging from the world’s most recognisable multi-national corporations to small enterprises. Siltbuster provides a wide range of water and wastewater treatment equipment for the industrial and municipal markets, including: Packaged lamella dissolved air flotation (DAF) units. Lamella clarifiers. Packaged biological treatment systems. Oil/water separators. Pipe flocculators. Reaction tanks. Containerised dosing systems. In the UK, Siltbuster has pioneered the concept of offering this plant through our extensive hire fleet. Approximately 20 major contracts and circa 50 smaller projects are undertaken each year for a diverse range of clients, many of which are some of the UK’s best-known companies. In addition to the industrial/municipal sector, Siltbuster has undertaken a number of mine water treatment projects in many countries, for example, the UK, Ireland, Greece, France, USA, Canada, Australia and Slovakia. The Siltbuster team pride themselves in their ability to react rapidly and in compliance with the project constraints, delivering mobile or permanent solutions tailored to meet your individual needs.

    Treatment Process Technologies
    Asset Maintenance & Rehabilitation
    Technocover Ltd logo

    Technocover Ltd

    United Kingdom

    Technocover is an approved ISO 14001:2004 Environmental and ISO 9001:2008 Quality Accredited Company, dedicated to the Design, Manufacture, Installation and Maintenance of Physical Security Access Solutions for protection to all industrial sectors. Our extensive in-house design and manufacturing facilities are home to well established research and development unit and comprehensive testing facility. Our commercial offices incorporate our design team who utilise the latest computer aided design technology and work alongside our dedicated planning section who oversee everything from surveying, scheduling and contract reviews, to the management of framework agreements. We have been designing and manufacturing innovative steel products since 1993. In that time, through organic growth, planned expansion and acquisition, we have gained a reputation as the UK’s leading supplier of Physical Steel Security Access Products. We have a range of aperture security solutions for virtually every application, establishments in the UK and overseas have sought our expertise in providing security products for asset protection. We operate a Total Service Philosophy and can handle complete projects from site survey to final installation, whether for new or refurbishing projects, the adaptability of our galvanised steel access products means the most complex design criteria can be met. Our range of high quality access products offer custom built operational and security solutions to prevent unauthorised persons gaining access, securing key assets against all levels of trespass, malicious vandalism, theft, extortion, contamination or terrorism. Many of our access system products have been tested and approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB)  to LPS 1175 issue 5 or above, Security Rating Levels 2, 3, 4 or 5. Frameworks We hold both exclusive and shared framework agreements with most of the major UK water companies. Framework Security items include: LPCB Level 2 Universal Gas Cylinder Clamps LPCB Level 3 Mesh Cage Systems LPCB Level 3 Flush Access Covers LPCB Level 4 Upstand Access Covers LPCB Level 4 Padlockable Access Doors LPCB Level 4 Key Entry Doors LPCB Level 4 Enclosures/Kiosks/Cabinets LPCB Level 4 Walk-In Modular Buildings LPCB Level 4 Window Bar Sets LPCB Level 5 Louvres

    Security Solutions
    Asset Maintenance & Rehabilitation

    Modular Desalination Systems: Containerised RO, Capacity Scalability, and Remote Deployment

    Modular desalination systems integrate all process components (membranes, pumps, energy recovery, controls) into pre-assembled, factory-tested units in ISO shipping containers or skid frames. Standard 20-foot container units produce 10 to 200 m3 per day; 40-foot containers 50 to 500 m3 per day. Skid-mounted modular systems scale to 2,000 m3 per day in a single module. Multiple modules are connected in parallel for larger capacities. Advantages over stick-built plants: factory testing eliminates site commissioning risk, rapid deployment (4 to 16 weeks from order vs 12 to 36 months for conventional construction), and flexibility to scale or relocate.

    Brackish water RO (BWRO) modular systems treat groundwater or surface water at TDS 500 to 10,000 mg per L with energy consumption 0.5 to 1.5 kWh per m3. Seawater RO (SWRO) modular systems for 10 to 500 m3 per day use high-pressure pumps (55 to 70 bar), energy recovery turbines (turbocharger type for small systems, isobaric pressure exchangers above 200 m3 per day), and either polyamide spiral-wound membranes or for extreme corrosion environments, titanium-framed systems. Pretreatment in modular systems uses cartridge filters (5-micron absolute), self-cleaning disc filters, or compact UF modules. Brine disposal by sea outfall (for coastal systems) or injection/evaporation pond (for inland).

    Remote and humanitarian deployment applications drive modular desalination adoption: disaster response (potable water for 500 to 10,000 people from a single 20-ft container), military forward operating bases (NATO Waterpoint requirement: 45 L per soldier per day), island and remote community water supply (no pipeline access), and temporary industrial water supply during plant construction. Power supply for remote SWRO: solar PV plus battery storage systems are matched to SWRO load; energy storage requirement is sized for 2 to 4 hours of RO operation per kWh of solar capacity. Specific energy consumption of solar-powered SWRO: 3 to 6 kWh per m3 for containerised systems without advanced ERD, 2 to 3 kWh per m3 with pressure exchanger ERD.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much water can a containerised desalination unit produce?

    Containerised RO desalination capacity depends on unit configuration and feed water salinity: standard 20-foot ISO container BWRO (brackish water): 50 to 200 m3 per day; SWRO (seawater): 20 to 100 m3 per day. 40-foot container BWRO: 100 to 500 m3 per day; SWRO: 50 to 250 m3 per day. Multiple containers connected in parallel scale capacity proportionally. For a remote village of 1,000 people requiring 50 litres per person per day, a single 20-foot BWRO container covers demand. Factory-tested modular SWRO systems up to 2,000 m3 per day are available from manufacturers including ACWA Power, Degremont, and IDE Technologies as skid-mounted modular blocks. Capacity is also limited by power availability: a 100 m3 per day SWRO requires approximately 10 to 15 kW of continuous power (or equivalent solar plus battery).

    How long does it take to deploy a modular desalination plant?

    Containerised modular desalination systems offer significantly faster deployment than conventional stick-built plants. Timeline: procurement and factory testing: 6 to 16 weeks from order to dispatch; site preparation (civil works for foundation, brine outfall, water intake): 4 to 12 weeks (can run in parallel with manufacturing); site installation and commissioning: 1 to 4 weeks (containerised units are pre-wired, pre-piped, and factory-tested; on-site work limited to inter-unit connections, power hookup, and intake/outlet installation); operator training: 2 to 5 days for basic operation. Total timeline from contract award to operational: 8 to 24 weeks. Conventional stick-built plants of equivalent capacity: 18 to 48 months. Emergency and disaster deployment: military-spec containerised units with pre-positioned inventory can be operational within 72 hours of arrival on site.

    What is the energy consumption of modular desalination?

    Energy consumption depends on feed water salinity and system configuration. Brackish water RO (TDS 2,000 to 5,000 mg per L): 0.5 to 1.5 kWh per m3 of permeate. Brackish water RO (TDS 5,000 to 10,000 mg per L): 1.0 to 2.5 kWh per m3. Seawater RO without energy recovery: 5 to 8 kWh per m3. Seawater RO with turbocharger energy recovery (small-scale): 3 to 5 kWh per m3. Seawater RO with isobaric pressure exchanger (medium to large scale, above 200 m3 per day): 2.5 to 3.5 kWh per m3. Solar-powered BWRO for remote communities: 1 to 3 kWh per m3 electricity from solar PV (typical levelised cost of solar electricity: $0.03 to $0.10 per kWh), making total water cost dominated by membrane replacement and O&M rather than energy.

    How is brine from modular desalination disposed of?

    Brine disposal for modular desalination depends on location. Coastal deployments: subsurface diffuser pipe or surface discharge dilutes concentrate in receiving seawater. SWRO brine at 70,000 to 90,000 mg per L TDS must achieve rapid dilution to prevent localised hypersaline zones harmful to marine organisms; diffuser design targets dilution of minimum 10:1 (brine to seawater) within 50 m of outfall. Regulatory consent from marine environment authority required (MMO in UK, USACE in US). Inland BWRO deployments: brine at 5,000 to 20,000 mg per L TDS requires disposal by evaporation pond (land requirement 0.5 to 2 m2 per m3 per day of brine in arid climate), deep well injection (UIC Class I permit in US, Environment Agency permit in UK), or land application for low-TDS concentrate. Brine volume: BWRO at 80 percent recovery produces 250 L of concentrate per m3 of permeate; SWRO at 50 percent produces 1,000 L of concentrate per m3 of permeate.

    Case Study·Emergency water supply
    Challenge

    A Category 2 resilience partner (UK Civil Contingencies Act 2004) sought a rapidly deployable water treatment capability for a 10,000-person population in the event of a prolonged mains supply failure caused by a major infrastructure incident. Existing mobile water bowsers were assessed as insufficient for more than 96 hours; no pre-positioned treatment capability existed.

    Approach

    Procured two 20-ft containerised BWRO systems (each 100 m3 per day capacity from local groundwater at 1,500 mg per L TDS) and two 20-ft containerised SWRO systems (each 50 m3 per day from coastal sea water). All four units were factory-tested and certified for immediate deployment. Power was provided by integrated diesel generators with 72-hour fuel storage. Annual maintenance contracts and operator training for the responsible authority's water emergency team were included.

    Outcome

    Units successfully deployed in a live exercise simulating a 7-day supply interruption for 8,000 people. Each BWRO unit reliably produced 100 m3 per day at below 200 mg per L TDS compliant with UK drinking water standards. Operators from the local authority and fire service completed 2-day competency training. The authority satisfied its Civil Contingencies Act duty to maintain water supply resilience for vulnerable populations above the minimum of 10 litres per person per day.

    Questions to Ask Shortlisted Providers

    1. 1

      What is the guaranteed permeate TDS and the minimum production capacity at the worst-case feed water quality for our site, and has this been tested on actual site water or a characterised sample?

      Modular desalination performance specifications are typically given at standard test conditions (25 degrees C, specified feed TDS). Real site water often differs in temperature (UK groundwater 10 to 14 degrees C, which reduces RO flux by 20 to 30 percent), TDS, and scaling potential. Performance at site conditions must be specified and ideally demonstrated through a pilot run or treatability test on actual site water before procurement commitment.

    2. 2

      What is the power draw at full production and what generator or grid connection specification is required, and what is the startup power surge compared to steady-state demand?

      Modular SWRO typically draws 3 to 5 kW per m3 per hr of permeate production: a 100 m3 per day unit draws 12 to 20 kW continuous. High-pressure pump startup requires 3 to 5 times the steady-state current for 2 to 5 seconds, which must be accommodated by the generator's transient response capability. Undersizing the power supply results in shutdown on startup surge, which is a common failure mode in emergency deployments using generators sized only for steady-state load.

    3. 3

      What pretreatment is integrated in the containerised unit, and what raw water quality range (turbidity, SDI, biological load) can the unit handle without blocking the RO membranes?

      Modular RO units with only cartridge filter pretreatment are appropriate for clear, low-turbidity groundwater (SDI below 5). For surface water or turbid groundwater, integrated UF or multimedia filter pretreatment is required to protect RO membranes. Deploying a cartridge-filter-only unit on river water during a flooding event (high turbidity, SDI potentially above 20) will block the cartridge filter within hours, stopping production.

    4. 4

      What is the commissioning time from unit arrival on site to first potable water production, and what site preparation (foundations, connections, drainage) is required?

      A containerised unit described as 'rapidly deployable' may still require 2 to 5 days of civil work for bunded concrete foundations (for stabilised operation), raw water intake pipework, brine discharge connection, and electrical supply. For genuine rapid deployment (72 hours to potable production), all connections must be achievable with on-unit hose connections and no civil works. Confirm exactly what site preparation is needed and how long it takes by asking for a deployment timeline from a reference exercise.

    5. 5

      What are the consumable requirements (membrane replacement, filter cartridges, anti-scalant, biocide) and what lead time applies in an emergency procurement context?

      A modular desalination unit deployed in a prolonged emergency (30 to 90 days) will require consumable replenishment: cartridge filter replacement (typically weekly for turbid source water), anti-scalant (continuous dosing), and biocide. If consumables are proprietary and available only from the unit manufacturer, supply chain risk in an emergency is significant. Confirm that standard-sized replacement cartridges and commonly available chemicals can be used in the unit.

    What Drives Cost in This Category

    Feed water salinity and unit type

    Containerised BWRO unit (1,000 to 5,000 mg per L TDS, 100 m3 per day): 60,000 to 180,000 GBP purchase or 800 to 2,500 GBP per month rental. Containerised SWRO unit (35,000 mg per L TDS seawater, 50 m3 per day): 120,000 to 350,000 GBP purchase or 1,500 to 4,000 GBP per month rental. The SWRO unit costs approximately 2 to 3 times more than an equivalent-volume BWRO unit due to higher operating pressure (55 to 70 bar vs 8 to 20 bar), energy recovery requirements, and seawater-rated materials.

    Power supply and energy cost

    An integrated diesel generator for 100 m3 per day BWRO (15 kW steady-state): 15,000 to 35,000 GBP capital, diesel consumption 4 to 8 L per hr (600 to 1,200 GBP per week at 1.50 GBP per L). For SWRO with 3.5 kWh per m3 energy consumption at 50 m3 per day: 7.3 kW demand, 175 kWh per day = 26.25 GBP per day in energy at 0.15 GBP per kWh (grid) or 210 GBP per day from a diesel generator. Grid connection reduces energy cost by 85 percent versus diesel for long-term deployments.

    Brine disposal infrastructure

    Coastal SWRO brine disposal through a temporary flexible hose to a tidal discharge point: 1,000 to 5,000 GBP. Inland BWRO brine at 80 percent recovery (250 L concentrate per m3 of permeate): a 100 m3 per day unit produces 25 m3 per day of brine at 5,000 to 8,000 mg per L TDS requiring tanker collection (400 to 800 GBP per day for 25 m3 tanker) or temporary lined pit. Brine disposal is often the most expensive ongoing operational cost for inland modular deployments.

    Operator cost and training

    Modular desalination units require a trained operator for monitoring, consumable replenishment, and process adjustment. For a 24-hour operation (continuous production), 3 operators on rotating shifts cost 90,000 to 150,000 GBP per year in labour. For intermittent (day shift only) production, 1 to 2 operators cost 40,000 to 80,000 GBP per year. Operator training for personnel without prior RO experience: 2 to 5 days at 500 to 1,500 GBP per person from the unit supplier.

    Key Regulations & Standards

    Civil Contingencies Act 2004 -- Water Utility Resilience Duties

    Category 1 responders (water companies) under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004 have a statutory duty to maintain emergency water supply plans and to provide minimum water supply (at least 10 litres per person per day) during incidents affecting the public water supply. Modular desalination units are a recognised emergency supply measure. Ofwat's C-MeX framework penalises water companies for supply interruptions above 12 hours; modular units reduce the duration of interruptions during infrastructure recovery.

    Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016 -- Emergency Supply Quality

    Emergency water supply provided by temporary or modular treatment must comply with WS(WQ)R 2016 parametric values for drinking water quality. DWI may grant temporary authorisations for specific parameters during genuine emergencies (e.g. turbidity or chlorine residual outside normal limits) where public health risk is managed. However, TDS, microbiological parameters (E. coli, Enterococci), and nitrate must still comply without derogation. Monitoring of emergency supply must be conducted and results reported to DWI.

    Environmental Permitting Regulations 2016 -- Temporary Brine Discharge

    Temporary brine discharge from a modular RO unit to surface water or coastal waters requires an Environmental Permit or de minimis exemption from the Environment Agency. EA has simplified procedures for emergency water supply brine discharge (temporary activity exemption, typically available for up to 30 days without full permit). Longer-duration deployments require a standard activity environmental permit. Brine characteristics (TDS, chloride, sodium) must comply with permit conditions to protect receiving water quality.

    WRAS Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 -- Temporary Supply Connections

    Temporary modular desalination units connected to the public water supply distribution system (e.g. to inject treated water into an isolated zone) must comply with WRAS Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 including backflow prevention (Type AA or BA air gap at the connection point to prevent contamination of the public supply). The water company must approve any direct connection. Membrane units certified to WRAS or NSF 61 for materials in contact with drinking water should be used.