Reverse Osmosis membranes work by applying sufficient pressure on one side of a semi permeable membrane causing water molecules to diffuse through the membrane and overcome the effects of osmotic pressure. Meanwhile, viruses, bacteria, dissolved molecules, many ions and most other solutes present in the raw water are trapped and prevented from passing through the membrane.

This process, while effective, allows for flow in only one direction and therefore doesn't lend itself to the common cleaning method of backflushing (or reverse flow).

As they become increasingly popular, membrane separation systems of all types must be protected from the physical damage and pore clogging effects of heavy particulates and suspended solids invisible to the naked eye. Orival can provide all the protection necessary for MF and UF systems and act as the first stage of pretreatment for nanofiltration and RO membrane systems to ensure minimal damage and maximum efficiency.