Larry,


Keith, I noticed these small RO systems put in boats use quite a bit more
pressure than the commercial units, say for a muni water system. Wouldn't
that make them break down the dead bacterium much faster, releasing their
toxins into the water supply?

I doubt it. The water bugs that create the biofilm are pretty tolerant
of pressure, they just balance internal and exterior pressure. Hardy
little beasts. I would certainly expect a higher level of membrane
compaction, shortening the life, and a much greater propensity for
o-ring and membrane failure. The additional pressure will, of course,
help move any cellular debris through any holes, including the membrane
'pores'. Most of the commercial systems I've dealt with operate closer
to 600-650 psig, and they still have leakage problems.

Keith