Data-Driven Decision Support System for RO Desalination

Program Name

Data-Driven Decision Support System for RO Desalination

Overview

Seawater desalination is one of the most common methods for producing fresh water. However, it is an energy- and chemical-intensive process, and operating costs can increase quietly as membranes foul, scale, and age. These issues are often difficult to distinguish from one another, so plants may respond too early or too late based on fixed cleaning schedules, leading to wasted energy, chemicals, and membrane life.

This work presents a data-driven Decision Support System that converts everyday plant data into clear operating decisions. For each RO train, the system calculates more than 100 engineering and KPI indicators, compares performance against the train’s own clean baseline and the wider fleet, and runs diagnostic checks to identify when cleaning is required and how soon action should be taken. It also helps distinguish between removable fouling and permanent membrane damage, so the correct response — cleaning or membrane replacement — can be recommended. In addition, the system evaluates scaling risk, energy waste, and each train’s performance relative to its peers.

Rather than simply displaying numbers, the system explains what each signal means, how each train compares with the others, and when operators should act. It uses flexible, self-adjusting limits instead of rigid fixed thresholds, with stable reporting designed to reduce false alarms.

The sustainability benefit is direct: cleaning is driven by condition rather than the calendar, reducing chemical use; energy waste is made visible and can be reduced; and problems are detected earlier and more accurately, helping extend membrane life and maintain reliable plant operation.

Duration

1 hour 30 minutes

Location

R-2, Ritz Carlton Hotel, Jeddah

Date

Wednesday, 16 December 2026, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Targeted Audience

Language

 English

Level 

Executive