RO recovery = permeate / feed. Low recovery = less scaling but more energy per m³; high recovery saves water but risks membrane fouling.
Formula
$$ \text{Recovery} = \frac{Q_\text{permeate}}{Q_\text{feed}} $$
Symbol legend
| Symbol | Meaning | Unit | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| $Feed$ | Seawater in | m³/h | pump curve |
| $Permeate$ | Fresh product | m³/h | membrane rating |
Sources
- Alfa Laval / Parker-Hannifin Marine RO data.