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SEPA CF Cell
Assembly and Operation Manual
Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 2
SEPA CF Cell Components ....................................................................................................... 2
SEPA CF Cell Assembly ............................................................................................................ 4
Cell Body Assembly................................................................................................................ 4
Cell Holder Assembly ............................................................................................................. 9
SEPA CF Cell Connections ...................................................................................................10
Operation of the SEPA CF Cell .................................................................................................12
Supplementary Operating Information ...................................................................................13
Accessory and Spare Part Ordering Information .......................................................................14
Return Material Authorization ....................................................................................................15
Warranty ...................................................................................................................................15
Appendix 1: Swagelock Connections ........................................................................................16
Appendix 2: Cutting Custom Membrane Filters .........................................................................17
Appendix 3: Preconditioning Membranes for Use......................................................................18
Appendix 4: Temperature Correction Factor for Filmtec™ Membranes .....................................19
Appendix 5: Membrane Test Log ..............................................................................................20
Appendix 6: SEPA CF Cell Applications ....................................................................................21
Appendix 7: List of Sterlitech Flat Sheet Membranes ................................................................24
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
1
Introduction
The SEPA CF Cell is a laboratory-scale crossflow filtration unit that is designed to evaluate flat
sheet membranes in a variety of applications. It simulates the flow dynamics of larger,
commercially available membrane elements such as industrial spiral wound membrane
elements. By using a combination of Stainless Steel (SS) shims, feed spacers, and
membranes, users can vary the operating conditions and fluid dynamics over broad ranges.
Table 1 below outlines the operational parameters of the SEPA CF Cell.
Table 1: SEPA CF Operating Parameters
Parameter
Effective Membrane Area
Hold-Up Volume:
Maximum Pressure: 316SS Cell Body
Maximum Temperature: 316SS Cell Body
O-rings:
pH Range:
Cross Flow Velocity
Description
140 cm² (22-inch²)
70 ml (2.4 ounces)
69 bar (1000 psig)
177 °C (350 °F)
Viton* (Other materials available)
Membrane Dependent
Variable (Table 2.1)
Prior to operating or servicing this device, this manual must be read and understood. Keep it
and associated information near the equipment.
SEPA CF Cell Components
Verify that the stirred cell was shipped complete, intact, and undamaged. The complete SEPA
CF Cell includes:
 Stainless steel cell body, top and
bottom
Cell Top
Cell Bottom
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SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation

Anodized aluminum cell holder with
piston and high pressure gauge

Concentrate control valve with high
pressure gauge

Tubing and hardware kit which
includes:
 Feed Spacers

1 pack of 5 Permeate Carriers


3.0 meters (10 ft) concentrate
tubing
 1/4 diameter permeate tubing
(91.4 cm (3 ft))
O-rings (2)
The SEPA CF Cell also requires additional equipment to be operated, which are sold
separately:





Hydraulic hand pump to operate the cell holder
Feed Pump
Feed Tank
Filtration membrane packs
Assortments of shims and additional spacers
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
3
SEPA CF Cell Assembly
After verifying that all of the necessary components were shipped and present, you can begin
the assembly of the crossflow cell.
Cell Body Assembly
The cell body consists of the cell top, permeate carrier, membrane filter, feed spacer, shims, orings, cell bottom, and concentrate control valve. Figure 1 below illustrates a typical assembly
of the cell body.
Figure 1. Cell Body Assembly
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SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
To assemble the SEPA CF Cell Body:
1. Connect the concentrate flow control valve to the cell bottom by wrapping PTFE tape
around the valve’s male NPT end and screwing it into the concentrate outlet port.
Note: The cell bottom is the half of the cell body that has the four alignment pins. The
cell top has the holes to accept the alignment pins.
2. Install the O-rings into the grooves on the cell bottom and wet them with a small amount
of water or the fluid to be processed.
Caution: Make sure that the O-rings lie flat in the grooves of the cell bottom. Leaking
may occur if the O-rings do not lie flat in the grooves. The O-rings will be cut or crushed
when the system is operating if the O-rings are not installed correctly.
3. Place a shim, if needed, in the cavity inside of the inner O-ring.
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
5
4. Install the Feed Spacer into the central cavity, on top of the shim. The feed spacer must
lie flat and be fully contained within the cavity.
Note: The feed spacer and the permeate carrier look similar and are cut in the same
size. The permeate carrier is thinner and has a tight weave while the feed spacer has
large gridding.
5. Place a piece of pre-cut membrane over the feed spacer using the four guideposts to
hold the membrane in position. The membrane should be installed with the shiny or
active side down toward the feed spacer.
Note: If you are cutting your own membranes, the membrane’s outer edge should fit
between the inner and outer O-rings in the cell body to prevent leakage.
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SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
6. Wet the permeate carrier with water or the fluid to be processed and place it into the
cavity in the cell top. The surface tension caused by wetting the carrier will keep it in
place.
7. Complete the assembly of the cell body by placing the cell top onto the cell bottom. The
alignment holes in the top should fit snugly over the alignment pins in the cell bottom.
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
7
8. Once the cell body is assembled and the quick release connector is installed into the cell
holder (See Cell Holder Assembly below), insert the cell body into the cell holder until it
rests against the two stops in the cell holder.
Caution: The cell body is very heavy: 14.5 kg (32 lbs).
8
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Cell Holder Assembly
The cell holder is filled with Mobil DTE 20 Series Hydraulic Oil to operate the hydraulic piston.
Before using the SEPA CF Cell for the first time, the brass quick release connector must be
installed into the cell holder.
To install the quick release connector into the cell holder:
1. Wrap PTFE tape clockwise around the threads of the brass fitting while the open end is
facing you.
2. Move the cell holder into a vertical position with the shipping plug and/or pressure gauge
facing upward.
Caution: Attempting to install the brass quick release connector with the cell in the
wrong position will cause the hydraulic fluid to spill.
3. Carefully remove the shipping plug in the hydraulic port on the cell holder.
4. Place the brass quick release connector into the hydraulic port.
5. Tighten the brass fitting with an open-ended wrench (1" wrench is suggested).
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
9
SEPA CF Cell Connections
Figure 2 shows the plumbing connections that need to be made for the operation of the SEPA
CF Cell, the configuration can change slightly depending on the objectives of the user. In
general, the connections to be made are:





Hydraulic pressure source to the cell holder
Feed vessel to the inlet pump
Pump outlet to the feed inlet of the cell body
Concentrate flow control valve to the feed vessel
Permeate outlet to the permeate collection vessel
Figure 2. Example SEPA CF Flow Diagram
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SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
To connect the hydraulic pressure source to the cell holder:
1. Push the quick release fitting of the hose of the hydraulic pressure source against the
quick release fitting installed into the cell holder. The outer collar of the female fitting will
extend about 3.2 mm (⅛").
2. Rotate the collar on the female fitting ¼ turn so the notch and the groove do not line up.
To disconnect the hydraulic pressure source to the cell holder:
1. Release all hydraulic pressure in the system.
Warning: Do not disconnect the hydraulic pressure source from the cell holder while the
system is pressurized.
2. Turn the collar on the female fitting until the notch and the groove line and push the
collar to separate the fittings.
To connect the feed vessel to the feed pump and SEPA CF Cell:
1. Attach a fitting for the ⅜" nylon tubing provided with the SEPA CF Cell to the feed pump.
2. Once the fitting is in place, insert the tubing firmly into the open end. The tubing should
seat in the fitting and should be easily removable.
3. Connect a length of ⅜" nylon tubing or high pressure hose from the outlet of the pump to
the feed inlet of the cell body.
Warning: Nylon tubing is rated for operations less than 250 psig (17.2 bar). Highpressure tubing, such as the PTFE-lined SEPA hose, must be used for the connection
between the pump outlet and the feed inlet if the SEPA CF is being operated at higher
pressures.
To connect the concentrate control valve to the SEPA CF Cell:
1. Connect the concentrate control valve by screwing the ⅜" male pipe thread into the
female threads of the SEPA CF outlet and tighten.
2. Connect a length of ⅜" nylon tubing to the tube fitting on the concentrate control valve.
3. Insert the free end of the tubing into the feed vessel or a separate vessel if you wish to
collect the concentrate separately.
To connect the permeate outlet to the permeate collection vessel:
1. Connect a length of ¼" nylon tubing to the permeate outlet using the polypropylene
fitting provided.
2. Insert the free end of the tubing into the permeate collection vessel. Ensure that all
connections are snug.
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
11
Operation of the SEPA CF Cell
Once the SEPA CF Cell has been assembled and connected to a feed system, it can be used in
variety of applications that includes reverse osmosis, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and
microfiltration.
To operate the SEPA CF Cell:
1. Set the feed pressure less than or equal to the piston pressure on the cell holder/cell
body and turn the feed flow pump on.
Note: A good starting point may be to set the system at 1.7 bar (25 psig) pressure for
ultrafiltration, 17.2 bar (250 psig) for reverse osmosis, and 2–3 Lpm (0.5–0.8 gpm)
concentrate flow. If this does not produce the desired results then the parameters can
easily be adjusted and different membranes can be used.
2. Verify the feed pressure by comparing the reading on the piston cell holder pressure
gauge to the reading on the concentrate pressure gauge.
3. Adjust the concentrate flow control valve to obtain the desired pressure and flow.
Experimentation enables you to determine the optimum settings for pressure, flow rate,
and shim/spacer combination to use on the chosen membrane and the fluid being
processed.
To replace a membrane filter:
1. Turn the feed flow pump OFF.
2. Turn the knob (counterclockwise) on the pressure relief valve on the hydraulic pump to
release the hydraulic pressure in the system.
3. Slide the cell body out of the cell holder.
4. Separate the cell body top from the cell bottom.
5. Remove the membrane.
6. Remove the permeate carrier, if necessary.
Note: Typically the feed spacer and permeate carrier do not have to be removed.
7. Install the new membrane (and, if necessary, a new permeate carrier).
8. Reassemble the cell top and bottom.
9. Return the cell body to the cell holder.
10. Reactivate the piston mechanism.
11. Turn the feed flow pump on.
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SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Supplementary Operating Information
Membrane Performance Results
Spiral wound membranes containing mesh spacers are usually operated with a fluid velocity
across the membrane surface of 0.1–0.5 m/sec (0.3–1.6 ft/sec). Higher velocities in
membranes may lead to excessive pressure differential across the membrane and possible
damage. Hollow fiber membranes, tubular membranes, and membranes with tubular
spacers may be operated at higher velocities, but this may not contribute to a more effective
operation.
Membrane Cell Performance
Other parameters such as viscosity, pressure, and suspended solids may also affect
performance/operation. Experimentation with the SEPA CF Cell can help predict the best
operating parameters. If your pump is delivering too much flow, a portion of the flow can be
diverted back to the feed container before entering the feed inlet of the cell body. This
requires installation of an optional bypass valve and fitting on the pump outlet (Figure 2, #4),
which is not supplied with the system.
Temperature Limits
The membranes, feed spacer, permeate, O-rings, and cell body materials construction
dictates maximum temperatures.
Table 2: Upper Temperature Limits
Component
Maximum Temperature
316 SS Cell:
177 °C (350 °F)
Membrane Element:
Variable
Feed Spacer:
82 °C (180 °F)
Permeate Carrier:
82 °C (180 °F)
O-rings
Viton
200° C (400° F)
EPDM
150° C (300° F)
Autoclaving the 316SS cell body is acceptable, recognizing the temperature limitation of
82°C (180°F) on the membrane, feed spacer, and permeate carrier. The cell holder should
never need to be autoclaved because it does not come into contact with the process fluid.
Membrane Cleaning
The SEPA CF Cell can be cleaned easily after the membrane is removed. However, you
may wish to simulate the actual cleaning conditions of Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) in larger
systems with spiral-wound or tubular membranes. This can be done with CIP. Clean-InPlace chemically cleans without removing the membrane to mechanically scrub the unit.
During CIP, cleaning solutions are re-circulated and, in some cases, allowed to sit for a
period of time within the cell body. In some cases, the feed pump can be used to recirculate the cleaning solutions.
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
13
Accessory and Spare Part Ordering Information
Accessories and spare parts for the SEPA CF CELL can be ordered by calling Sterlitech
Corporation at 1-877-544-4420 or by visiting www.sterlitech.com.
Table 3: Accessory and Spare Part Ordering Information
Product
Shipping Weight
SEPA CF Cell, for operation to 69 bar (1000 psig)
Hydraulic Hand Pump Kit
Feed Flow Pump
39 kg (86 lb)
5 kg (11 lb)
Accessories
Permeate Carrier Pack
34 mil Feed Spacer (5/pack)
47 mil Feed Spacer (5/pack)
65 mil Feed Spacer (5/pack)
Feed Spacer Assortment Pack 17, 31, 47, and 65 mil
Shims (12 total/pack):
 4 of 2 mil
 4 of 5 mil
 2 of 10 mil
 1 of 15 mil
 1 of 25 mil
Spare Parts
Viton O-rings
Aluminum Cell Holder
Concentrate Control Valve
SEPA Cell Body
Membrane Packs
Visit www.sterlitech.com for membrane ordering
information.
14
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Contact Sterlitech
Ordering
Number
1230060
1230086
Contact
Sterlitech
0.5 kg (1 lb)
0.5 kg (1 lb)
0.5 kg (1 lb)
0.5 kg (1 lb)
0.5 kg (1 lb)
1142817
1142818
1143763
1142819
1232558
0.5 kg (1 lb)
1231104
28g (1 oz)
21 kg (46 lbs)
0.9 kg (2 lbs)
14.5 kg (32 lbs)
1143205
1230029
1149418
1230064
Return Material Authorization
If materials are to be returned to Sterlitech for repair, evaluation, or warranty consideration, a
Return Material Authorization (RMA) number and form must be obtained from Sterlitech prior to
the return. Contact Sterlitech’s Customer Service Department for these forms.
The form must be completed and returned with the material. Be sure to include a complete,
detailed written reason for the return. Also, include serial numbers, installation and removal
dates, and any other pertinent information that is available. SEPA CF Cells have a serial
number imprinted on the cell bottom.
Indicate the proposed disposition of the material, and reference the RMA number on all
packages or cartons. All material must be shipped to Sterlitech with freight prepared by the
customer.
Warranty
The following is made in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied. Sterlitech Corporation
guarantees equipment to be free from defects in material and workmanship when operated in
accordance with written instructions for a period of one year from receipt. Parts not
manufactured by Sterlitech are covered by their manufacturer’s warranties, which are normally
for one year.
Manufacturers and Seller’s only obligation shall be to issue credit against the purchase or
replacement of equipment proved to be defective in material or workmanship. Neither
manufacturer nor seller shall be liable for any injury, loss or damage, direct or indirect, special or
consequential, arising out of the use of, misuse, or the inability to use such product.
The information contained herein is based on technical data and tests, which we believe to be
reliable, and is intended for use by persons having technical skill at their discretion and risk.
Since conditions of use are outside Sterlitech’s control, we can assume no liability whatsoever
for results obtained or damages incurred through the application of the data presented.
This information is not intended as a license to operate under, or a recommendation to infringe
upon, any patent of Sterlitech or others covering any material or use.
The foregoing may not be altered except by a written agreement signed by officers of the
manufacturer.
Technical Assistance:
Please contact us if you have any questions or technical inquires about our products.
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
15
Appendix 1: Swagelok Connections
To install Swagelok Tube Fittings:
1. Insert the tubing into the Swagelok tube
fitting. Make sure that the tubing rests
firmly on the shoulder of the fitting and that
the nut is finger-tight.
2. Scribe the nut at the 6 o’clock position. By
scribing the nut at the 6 o’clock position as
it appears to you, there will be no doubt as
to the starting position.
3. Hold the fitting body steady with a backup
wrench and tighten the nut 1¼ turns.
Watch the scribe mark, make one
complete revolution and continue to the 9
o’clock position. When the nut is tightened
to the 9 o’clock, you can easily see the
fitting has been tightened properly.
Swagelok connections can be disconnected and retightened many times.
To retighten the Swagelok connection:
1. Start with the disconnected fitting.
2. Insert tubing with preswaged ferrules
into fitting body until front ferrule seats.
3. Tighten the nut by hand. Rotate nut to
the original position with a wrench. An
increase in resistance will be
encountered at the original position.
Then tighten slightly with the wrench.
16
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Appendix 2: Cutting Custom Membrane Filters
Sterlitech offers a wide variety of RO/NF/UF/MF membranes that are available pre-cut for use
with the SEPA CF Cell. However, if you need to cut your own membrane, you will need the
following items:




The provided SEPA CF template
The membrane sheet to be cut
A pair of sharp scissors
A pair of latex gloves
To cut membrane filters for the SEPA CF Cell:
1. Take the provided template and place the membrane sheet against it. Be sure to have the
latex gloves on to avoid contaminating the membrane surface.
2. Cut along the edge of the template with the scissors. Hold the scissors at an angle towards
the center of the template to avoid under-trimming.
Once finished, the membrane should sit perfectly flat on supports without any bending and
extend outside of the inner O-ring to avoid leakage.
Note: Sterlitech also offers steel ruled dies (P/N SEPA Die) that are designed to cut the
membrane to the correct size and shape.
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
17
Appendix 3: Preconditioning Membranes for Use
Once the membrane is cut and fitted, it needs to be pre-conditioned. Membranes that are not
pre-conditioned may have different behaviors and fluxes, which will give inconsistent results.
Figure 4 below illustrates the instability of the flux, particularly at the start of the trial, through
unconditioned membranes.
Figure 4: Example of Performance Variance Using Unconditioned Membranes
To precondition the membrane:
1. Load the membrane into the SEPA CF Cell
2. Fill the feed tank with deionized water and pressurize the cell. The temperature of the
water and the pressure used should be exactly the same as the temperature and
pressure that will be used in the actual trials.
3. Run the deionized water through the cell for two hours. After about 30 minutes, flux
through the membrane will stabilize after a sharp fall. Over the next 90 minutes, the flux
should be steady, indicating that the membrane is conditioned (see Figure 5 below).
Figure 5: Stabilizing Flux with Preconditioning
4. Release pressure, discard the deionized water and fill the cell with your sample.
18
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Appendix 4: Temperature Correction Factor for Filmtec™ Membranes
Table 4: Temperature Correction Factor for Filmtec™ Membranes
Temperature
°C
Temperature
Correction
Factor
Temperature
°C
Temperature
Correction
Factor
Temperature
°C
10.0
1.711
14.0
1.475
10.1
1.705
14.1
1.469
10.2
1.698
14.2
1.464
10.3
1.692
14.3
1.459
10.4
1.686
14.4
1.453
10.5
1.679
14.5
1.448
10.6
1.673
14.6
1.443
10.7
1.667
14.7
1.437
10.8
1.660
14.8
1.432
10.9
1.654
14.9
1.427
11.0
1.648
15.0
1.422
11.1
1.642
15.1
1.417
11.2
1.636
15.2
1.411
11.3
1.630
15.3
1.406
11.4
1.624
15.4
1.401
11.5
1.618
15.5
1.396
11.6
1.611
15.6
1.391
11.7
1.605
15.7
1.386
11.8
1.600
15.8
1.381
11.9
1.594
15.9
1.376
12.0
1.588
16.0
1.371
12.1
1.582
16.1
1.366
12.2
1.576
16.2
1.361
12.3
1.570
16.3
1.356
12.4
1.564
16.4
1.351
12.5
1.558
16.5
1.347
12.6
1.553
16.6
1.342
12.7
1.547
16.7
1.337
12.8
1.541
16.8
1.332
12.9
1.536
16.9
1.327
13.0
1.530
17.0
1.323
13.1
1.524
17.1
1.318
13.2
1.519
17.2
1.313
13.3
1.513
17.3
1.308
13.4
1.508
17.4
1.304
13.5
1.502
17.5
1.299
13.6
1.496
17.6
1.294
13.7
1.491
17.7
1.290
13.8
1.486
17.8
1.285
13.9
1.480
17.9
1.281
Source: Dow Technical Manual, Form No. 609-02129-804
18.0
18.1
18.2
18.3
18.4
18.5
18.6
18.7
18.8
18.9
19.0
19.1
19.2
19.3
19.4
19.5
19.6
19.7
19.8
19.9
20.0
20.1
20.2
20.3
20.4
20.5
20.6
20.7
20.8
20.9
21.0
21.1
21.2
21.3
21.4
21.5
21.6
21.7
21.8
21.9
Temperature
Correction
Factor
Temperature
°C
Temperature
Correction
Factor
Temperature
°C
Temperature
Correction
Factor
1.276
1.272
1.267
1.262
1.258
1.254
1.249
1.245
1.240
1.236
1.232
1.227
1.223
1.219
1.214
1.210
1.206
1.201
1.197
1.193
1.189
1.185
1.180
1.176
1.172
1.168
1.164
1.160
1.156
1.152
1.148
1.144
1.140
1.136
1.132
1.128
1.124
1.120
1.116
1.112
22.0
22.1
22.2
22.3
22.4
22.5
22.6
22.7
22.8
22.9
23.0
23.1
23.2
23.3
23.4
23.5
23.6
23.7
23.8
23.9
24.0
24.1
24.2
24.3
24.4
24.5
24.6
24.7
24.8
24.9
25.0
25.1
25.2
25.3
25.4
25.5
25.6
25.7
25.8
25.9
1.109
1.105
1.101
1.097
1.093
1.090
1.086
1.082
1.078
1.075
1.071
1.067
1.064
1.060
1.056
1.053
1.049
1.045
1.042
1.038
1.035
1.031
1.028
1.024
1.021
1.017
1.014
1.010
1.007
1.003
1.000
0.997
0.994
0.991
0.988
0.985
0.982
0.979
0.977
0.974
26.0
26.1
26.2
26.3
26.4
26.5
26.6
26.7
26.8
26.9
27.0
27.1
27.2
27.3
27.4
27.5
27.6
27.7
27.8
27.9
28.0
28.1
28.2
28.3
28.4
28.5
28.6
28.7
28.8
28.9
29.0
29.1
29.2
29.3
29.4
29.5
29.6
29.7
29.8
29.9
0.971
0.968
0.965
0.962
0.959
0.957
0.954
0.951
0.948
0.945
0.943
0.940
0.937
0.934
0.932
0.929
0.926
0.924
0.921
0.918
0.915
0.913
0.910
0.908
0.905
0.902
0.900
0.897
0.894
0.892
0.889
0.887
0.884
0.882
0.879
0.877
0.874
0.871
0.869
0.866
™® Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
19
Appendix 5: Membrane Test Log
Membrane Test Log: Operational Parameters and Performance
System
Stage #
Choose
units
Date
Time
Date
Time
20
Operator
UNITS:
FEED
SDI
pH
Housing #
TDS CONCENTRATION
FLOW
PRESSURE
Temp
Feed
Perm
Conc
Conc
Perm
Feed
Conc
Perm
⁰F / ⁰C
ppm or mg/L
ppm or mg/L
ppm or mg/L
gpm
gpm
psig
psig
psig
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Comments
Appendix 6: SEPA CF Cell Applications
The following studies utilized the SEPA CF Cell in their method and are listed here to illustrate
the potential applications for the SEPA CF. These studies are good references for
understanding the operation of the SEPA CF Cell.
Application
Reverse Osmosis
(Desalination)
Study Citation
Sachit, Dawood Eisa. "Analysis of reverse osmosis
membrane performance during desalination of simulated
brackish surface waters." Journal of Membrane Science. 453.
(2014): 136-154.
Forward Osmosis and Low
Pressure Reverse Osmosis
Yangali-Quintanilla, Victor, Zhenyu Li, et al. "Indirect
desalination of Red Sea water with forward osmosis and low
pressure reverse osmosis for water reuse."Desalination. 280.
(2011): 160-166.
Ultrafiltration (Food
Processing)
Post, Antonie, Hanna Sampels, et al. "A comparison of
micellar casein and β-casein as sources of basic peptides
through tryptic hydrolysis and their enrichment using twostage ultrafiltration."International Journal of Dairy Technology.
65.4 (2012): 482-489.
Ultrafiltration and Nanofiltration
(Protein Production)
Ranamukhaarachi, Sahan, Lena Meissner, et al. "Production
of antioxidant soy protein hydrolysates by sequential
ultrafiltration and nanofiltration."Journal of Membrane
Science. 429. (2013): 81-87.
Membrane Development
Qadir, Ahmad. Development of new membranes for
desalination pre-treatment. MA thesis. University of Illinois at
Urbana-Champaign, 2011. Web.
<https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/handle/2142/26369>.
The following tables list the membrane product lines offered by Sterlitech and the applications
that they are most commonly used for. The part numbers and technical information for these
membranes follows in Appendix 7 (Page 24).
Reverse Osmosis Membranes
Designation
Application
ACM1
"Tight" brackish water
ACM2
Standard brackish water
ACM3
Lower pressure brackish water
ACM4
Low pressure/high flux
ACM5
Low pressure/high flux
AD
Sea Water Desalination
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
21
Reverse Osmosis Membranes (Continued)
Designation
AG
Application
Brackish Water Desalination, Reactive Silica Removal
AK
CE
Low Pressure Brackish Water Desalination, Reactive Silica Removal
Brackish Water Desalination
SB50
1 ppm continuous free chlorine tolerance, typically sized before sold in element
form
SE
Acid Concentration, Antibiotic Concentration, Dyehouse Wastewater
Reclamation, Evaporator Condensate, Fruit Juice Concentration, Laundry
Wastewater Reclamation, Starch/Sugar Concentration
SG
Acid Concentration, Antibiotic Concentration, Dyehouse Wastewater
Reclamation, Evaporator Condensate, Fruit Juice Concentration, Laundry
Wastewater Reclamation, Starch/Sugar Concentration
X201
Low organic, colloidal, biological fouling
70AC
Brackish Water Desalination
72U
Brackish Water Membrane, High Rejection-Low Energy, Enhanced chemical
tolerance to chloramines
82E
Standard Seawater Desalination
82V
Seawater Membrane- High Rejection, Low Energy
SW30HR
Sea Water (high rejection)
SW30XLE
Sea Water (extra low energy)
BW30
Brackish Water
BW30LE
Brackish Water (low energy)
BW30FR
Brackish Water (fouling resistant)
XLE
Brackish Water (extra low energy)
Nanofiltration Membranes
Designation
Application
CK
Water Softening
DK
Acid Purification, Alcohol Purification, Antibiotic Concentration, BOD/COD
Reduction, Cheese Whey Desalting, Detergent Removal, Dextrose
Purification, Dye Concentration, Ethylene Glycol Purification, Heavy Metal
Removal, Plating Waste, Polysaccharide Desalting, Sugar Fractionation
DL
Acid Purification, Alcohol Purification, Antibiotic Concentration, BOD/COD
Reduction, Cheese Whey Desalting, Detergent Removal, Dextrose
Purification, Dye Concentration, Ethylene Glycol Purification, Heavy Metal
Removal, Plating Waste, Polysaccharide Desalting, Sugar Fractionation
HL
Water Softening
22
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Nanofiltration Membranes (Continued)
Designation
TS40
Application
Process NF
TS80
Softening NF
XN45
NFX
NFW
Process NF
Dye Penetrant Removal, Gibberellins
Seawater Sulfate Removal, Landfill Leachate Treatment
Ultrafiltration Membranes
Designation
Application
CQ
ED Paint
GH
Colloidal Iron Removal, Colloidal Silica Removal, Dye Purification, Organics
Concentration, Organics Fractionations, Organics Purification, Protein
Separation and Concentration, Quenchant Recovery
GK
Colloidal Iron Removal, Colloidal Silica Removal, Dye Purification, Organics
Concentration, Organics Fractionations, Organics Purification, Protein
Separation and Concentration, Quenchant Recovery
MW
Cell Harvesting, Lysate Clarification, Oil/Water Separations
PT
Enzyme Concentration, Post Treatment of UltraPure Water, Protein Separation
and Concentration, PVA Concentration, Whey Concentration
PW
Enzyme Concentration, Post Treatment of UltraPure Water, Protein Separation
and Concentration, PVA Concentration, Whey Concentration
UA60
"Tight" thin film UF
UE10
10k UF for water/process streams
UE50
VT
MT
ST
V4
V5
V6
100k "open" UF
Whey Protein Concentration, Whey Protein Isolation
Whey Protein Concentration, Whey Protein Isolation
Whey Protein Concentration, Whey Protein Isolation
Concentration and Recovery of Cathodic Paint
Concentration and Recovery of Cathodic Paint
Concentration and Recovery of Cathodic Paint
Microfiltration Membranes
Designation
Application
FR
Fat Removal in Whey Protein Isolation
V0.1
Casein/Whey Fractionation
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
23
Appendix 7: List of Sterlitech Flat Sheet Membranes
Reverse Osmosis (RO) Membranes*
Designation
(P/N)
AD
(YMADSP1905)
AG
(YMAGSP1905)
AK
(YMAGSP1905)
CE
(YMCE1905)
SE
(YMSESP1905)
SG
(YMSGSP1905)
ACM1
(YMACM11905)
ACM2
(YMACM21905)
ACM3
(YMACM31905)
ACM4
(YMACM41905)
ACM5
(YMACM51905)
SB50
(YMX2011905)
70B
(YM70BSP195)
70UB
(YM70UBSP195)
80E
(YM80ESP195)
80LB
(YM80LBSP195)
24
25C pH
Range
Brand
Polymer
GE
Osmonics
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.5
1-11
15/800
GE
Osmonics
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.5
1-11
26/225
GE
Osmonics
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99
1-11
26/115
GE
Osmonics
Cellulose
Acetate
0 MWCO
97
1-11
23.5/420
GE
Osmonics
TF (Thin Film)
0 MWCO
98.9
1-11
22/425
GE
Osmonics
TF (Thin Film)
0 MWCO
98.2
1-11
22/225
TriSep
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.5
2-11
25/225
TriSep
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.5
2-11
30/225
TriSep
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.3
2-11
35/225
TriSep
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.2
2-11
30/150
TriSep
Polyamide
0 MWCO
98.5
2-11
30/110
TriSep
Cellulose
Acetate Blend
0 MWCO
4-7
30/420
TriSep
Polyamideurea
0 MWCO
99.5
2-11
30/225
Toray
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.7
2-11
27/225
Toray
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.5
2-11
27/110
Toray
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.8
2-11
16/800
Toray
Polyamide
0 MWCO
99.7
2-11
22/800
(YMSB501905)
X201
Rej-Size (NaCl)
Typical
Flux/psi
GFD@
PSI
Molecular
Weight Cutoff (MWCO)
95.0
(99.0 - MgSO4)
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
SW30HR
(YMSW30HR1905)
SW30XLE
(YMSW30XLE1905)
BW30
(YMBW301905)
BW30LE
(YMBW30LE1905)
BW30FR
(YMBW30FR1905)
XLE
(YMXLE1905)
Dow
Polyamide
~100
MWCO
99.6
2-11
17-24/800
Dow
Polyamide
~100
MWCO
99.5
2-11
23-29/800
Dow
Polyamide
~100
MWCO
99.5
2-11
26/255
Dow
Polyamide
~100
MWCO
99.5
2-11
37-46/225
Dow
Polyamide
~100
MWCO
99.5
2-11
26/255
Dow
Polyamide
~100
MWCO
98.7
2-11
33-41/125
Rej-Size (NaCl)
25C pH
Range
Typical
Flux/psi
GFD@
PSI
Nanofiltration (NF) Membranes*
Designation
(SKU)
CK
(YMCKSP1905)
DK
(YMDKSP1905)
DL
(YMDLSP1905)
HL
(YMHLSP1905)
TS40
Brand
Polymer
Molecular
Weight Cutoff (MWCO)
GE
Osmonics
Cellulose
Acetate
2000
MWCO
92% -Na2SO4
2-8
28/220
GE
Osmonics
TF (Thin Film)
150-300
MWCO
98% -MgSO4
2-10
22/100
GE
Osmonics
TF (Thin Film)
150-300
MWCO
96% -MgSO4
2-10
31/100
GE
Osmonics
TF (Thin Film)
150-300
MWCO
95% -MgSO4
3-9
39/100
TriSep
Polypiperazine
amide
200 MWCO
2-11
20/110
TriSep
Polyamide
150 MWCO
2-11
20/110
TriSep
Cellulose
acetate blend
150 MWCO
TriSep
Polypiperazine
amide
500 MWCO
Dow
Polyamide
~200-400
MWCO
Dow
Polyamide
Dow
Dow
(YMTS401905)
TS82
(YMTS821905)
SB90
(YMSB901905)
XN45
(YMXN451905)
NF
(YMNF1905)
NF245
(YMNF2451905)
NF270
(YMNF2701905)
NF90
(YMNF901905)
40-60%
(99.0%- MgSO4)
80-90%
(99.0% MgSO4)
85.00%
30/225
(97.0% MgSO4)
30-Oct
2-11
35/110
99-MgSO4
2-11
26.539.5/130
~200-400
MWCO
99-MgSO4
2-11
52-72/130
Polyamide
~200-400
MWCO
99.2-MgSO4
2-11
72-98/130
Polyamide
~200-400
MWCO
2-11
46-60/125
(95.0 - MgSO4)
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
25
NFX
(YMNFX1905)
NFW
(YMNFW1905)
NFG
(YMNFG1905)
40%
Synder
Polyamide TFC
150-300
MWCO
99% MgSO4
Synder
Polyamide TFC
300-500
MWCO
97% MgSO4
Synder
Polyamide
TFC
0.2
micron
20%
10%
50% MgSO4
3-10.5
20-25/110
4-10
45-50/110
4-10
5560/110
Ultrafiltration (UF) Membranes*
Designation
(SKU)
CQ
(YMCQSP1905)
GE
(YMGESP1905)
GH
(YMGHSP1905)
GK
(YMGKSP1905)
PT
(YMPTSP1905)
PW
(YMPWSP1905)
MW
(YMMWSP1905)
UA60
(YMUA601905)
UE10
(YMUE101905)
UE50
(YMUE501905)
XT
(YMXT1905)
VT
(YMVT1905)
MT
(YMMT1905)
ST
(YMST1905)
MK
(YMMK1905)
26
Rej-Size
25C pH
Range
Typical
Flux/psi
GFD@
PSI
20000
MWCO
20 K
2-9
300/50
TF (Thin
Film)
1000
MWCO
1K-PEG
1-11
20/400
GE
Osmonics
TF (Thin
Film)
2000
MWCO
2K-PEG
1-11
20/150
GE
Osmonics
TF (Thin
Film)
3000
MWCO
3K-PEG
1-11
17/75
GE
Osmonics
PES
5000
MWCO
5K-Dextran
1-11
90/50
GE
Osmonics
PES
10000
MWCO
10K-Dextran
1-11
85/30
GE
Osmonics
Ultrafilic
100000
MWCO
50K-Protein
2-9
176/20
TriSep
Polypiperazine
amide
3500
MWCO
70.0%- MgSO4
2-11
35/110
TriSep
PES
10000
MWCO
2-11
50/20
TriSep
PES
100000
MWCO
2-11
100/20
Synder
PES
1000
MWCO
1000 Da
1-11
75 -80/50
Synder
PES
3000
MWCO
3000 Da
1-11
110127/50
Synder
PES
5000
MWCO
5000 Da
1-11
120147/50
Synder
PES
10000
MWCO
10000 Da
1-11
130167/50
Synder
PES
30000
MWCO
30000 Da
1-11
181193/50
Brand
Polymer
Molecular
Weight Cutoff (MWCO)
GE
Osmonics
Cellulose
Acetate
GE
Osmonics
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
V3
(YMV31905)
BN
(YMBN1905)
V4
(YMV41905)
LY
(YMLY1905)
BY
(YMBY1905)
V5
(YMV51905)
BX
(YMBX1905)
LX
(YMLX1905)
V6
(YMV61905)
A6
(YMA61905)
V7
(YMV71905)
Synder
PVDF w/ +
surface charge
30000
MWCO
30000 Da
1-11
192207/50
Synder
PVDF
50000
MWCO
50000 Da
1-11
200214/50
Synder
PVDF w/ +
surface charge
70000
MWCO
70000 Da
1-11
157168/50
Synder
PES
100000
MWCO
100000 Da
1-11
270289/50
Synder
PVDF
100000
MWCO
100000 Da
1-11
162173/30
Synder
PVDF w/ +
surface charge
200000
MWCO
200000 Da
1-11
175186/30
Synder
PVDF
250000
MWCO
250000 Da
1-11
181193/30
Synder
PES
300000
MWCO
300000 Da
1-11
236252/30
Synder
PVDF w/ +
surface charge
500000
MWCO
500000 Da
1-11
182196/30
Synder
PVDF
500000
MWCO
500000 Da
1-11
191214/30
Synder
PVDF w/ +
surface charge
800000
MWCO
800000 Da
1-11
208232/30
Microfiltration (MF) Membranes*
Designation
(SKU)
JX
(YMJXSP1905)
TM10
(YMTM101905)
FR
(YMFR1905)
V0.1
(YMV011905)
V0.2
(YMV021905)
Brand
Polymer
Pore Size
Rej-Size
25C pH
Range
Typical
Flux/psi
GFD@
PSI
GE
Osmonics
PVDF
0.3 micron
0.3 micron
1-11
130/30
TriSep
PVDF
0.2 micron
2-11
50/10
Synder
PVDF
800000
MWCO
1-11
233249/30
Synder
PVDF
0.1 micron
1-11
237254/20
Synder
PVDF
0.2 micron
1-11
245280/20
800000 dalton
*This list is updated frequently. Visit www.sterlitech.com to see the latest offerings.
Sterlitech Corporation | SEPA CF Cell Manual
27
Notes:
28
SEPA CF Cell Manual | Sterlitech Corporation
Founded in 2001 in Kent, WA, Sterlitech Corporation manufactures and markets filtrationfocused laboratory products to a broad spectrum of scientific and industrial sectors. Its line of
flat sheet membranes and tangential flow cells deliver industry-leading performance and reliable
results. Configured for reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, ultrafiltration, and microfiltration
applications, Sterlitech’s bench scale test equipment provides the versatility required to
innovate.
Sterlitech’s comprehensive line of products is supported by the expertise of its technical
specialists who can assist with application-specific product selection, and provide customized
solutions where necessary. Unique problem-solving approaches, flexibility, and consistent
quality have made Sterlitech Corporation a renowned global provider of filtration products and
equipment.
General Corporate Information
Sterlitech Corporation
22027 70th Avenue S
Kent, WA 98032-1911 USA
Tel: 877-544-4420 or 1-253-437-0844
Fax: 1-253-437-0845
info@sterlitech.com
Sales Inquiries
sales@sterlitech.com
Accounts Payable
AP@sterlitech.com
Accounts Receiveable
AR@sterlitech.com
Press Inquiries
PR@sterlitech.com
For more information call (253) 437-0844, (877) 544-4420, or visit www.sterlitech.com
Sterlitech Corporation
22027 70th Ave. S
Kent, WA 98032-1911 USA
Phone: (253) 437-0844
Fax: (253) 437-0845
Email: sales@sterlitech.com