AMTA Releases New Guideline On Membrane System Safety And Reliability

The American Membrane Technology Association (AMTA) today announced the initial release of its Guideline for Membrane System Safety and Reliability (G-002), a comprehensive resource designed to reduce safety risks and improve long-term reliability of membrane separation and desalination facilities. The Guideline was introduced at the Membrane Technology Conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, 2-5 February 2026.

Addressing a Critical Industry Need

As membrane systems age and operating pressures and complexity increase, the importance of proactive safety and reliability practices cannot be overstated. Developed over several years, the Guideline responds to a recognized gap in available industry guidance particularly as it related to membrane pressure vessel and grooved end coupling service life, including leaks, corrosion, misalignment, and catastrophic mechanical events.

While existing codes and standards address general pressure vessel design and inspection, they do not address the unique safety and reliability challenges with membrane system designs including membrane housings and their interfacing mechanical components. The AMTA Guideline provides an industry-informed best-practice framework to help close that gap and represents a major step forward in helping the industry reduce risk, protect personnel, and extend asset life through informed, practical decision-making. Importantly, the guideline is intentionally published as guidance, rather than a standard, allowing facilities to apply its recommendations based on site-specific risk, cost, operating conditions, and regulatory context.

Key Features of the Guideline

• Documents historical membrane system failure events and failure modes
• Identifies preventive and precautionary processes to mitigate safety and reliability risks
• Provides guidance on system design, procurement, construction, operation, and maintenance
• Offers a risk-based framework to support decisions on inspection, operation, or equipment replacement
• References existing standards where applicable, while remaining a non-mandatory guidance document

Industry Collaboration and Dedication

The Guideline was authored by the AMTA G-002 Guideline Oversight Subcommittee, with contributions from industry experts and significant support from equipment manufacturers, utilities, and service providers. It reflects a collective, experience-based understanding of membrane system risks and mitigation strategies.

The Guideline for Membrane System Safety and Reliability (G-002) is now available through AMTA. For information on purchasing the guideline, please contact AMTA directly using the contact information below.

About AMTA

The American Membrane Technology Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of membrane technologies through education, research, and industry collaboration.

American Membrane Technology Association, Inc. (AMTA) l 1811 Englewood Rd., #280 l Englewood, FL 34223 | 772-469-6797 l custsrv@amtaorg.com l www.amtaorg.com