Open Collections

Abstract

This work discusses the most recurrent problems and their causes in desalination plants in Chile, as well as their solutions. This is based on various consultancies where the design of the process, and operational data of the first years of operation, have been compared with the present. Among the main families of problems that prevent these plants from operating properly are: • Specific design requirements linked to the geographic location. • Staffing and training levels of operators and maintainers. • Outdated or missing operation manuals and maintenance plans. • Challenges with pretreatment processes. • Fluctuations in seawater quality at the intake. • Deviations related to demand that disrupt the operation. • Damage to pipes and units, primarily caused by corrosion or crystallization. The proposed solutions for these problems are evaluated to select those that must be addressed immediately and those that can be solved over time.