Collection: Desalination

Desalination: Freshwater autonomy on board

Access to a reliable freshwater source is crucial for any long-distance sailing. Whether for hygiene, cooking, or general comfort, a properly sized and installed watermaker radically transforms the onboard experience. Skysat, drawing on its extensive experience in offshore racing, guides you in choosing and integrating a high-performance desalination system tailored to your specific needs. Discover the solutions we offer for guaranteed water autonomy.

Sizing your desalination plant: the water/energy equation

Sizing a desalination plant is not simply a matter of estimating daily water consumption. It is essential to consider the plant's energy efficiency, the desired production capacity, and the available installation space. Undersizing will lead to operational constraints and premature wear, while oversizing will result in unnecessary energy consumption.

• Low-consumption desalination units: Models optimized for use with limited energy sources (solar panels, hydrogenerators). Be sure to check the actual flow rate based on the water temperature.
• Modular desalination plants: Allow production capacity to be increased later by adding pump and membrane modules.
• High-pressure pumps: The heart of the system, it is crucial to choose a reliable pump suited to the operating pressure of the desalination plant. Sealing quality and maintenance are key factors.
• Pre-filters and activated carbon filters: Essential for protecting the reverse osmosis membrane and ensuring the quality of the water produced. Regular maintenance is crucial.

Installation and maintenance: the keys to increased longevity

Installing a watermaker requires careful planning and a thorough understanding of the boat's hydraulic and electrical requirements. Improper installation can lead to leaks, premature corrosion of components, and a significant drop in performance. Regular maintenance is equally important to ensure the system's longevity and efficiency.

• Positioning of pumps and membranes: Choose a location that is accessible for maintenance, protected from seawater splashes and well ventilated.
• Hydraulic connection: Use marine-grade hoses and fittings that are pressure and corrosion resistant. Check for excessively tight bends that could reduce flow.
• Regular rinsing: Rinse with fresh water after each use to prevent membrane fouling.
• Chemical cleaning: Perform periodic chemical cleaning (according to manufacturer's recommendations) to remove organic and mineral deposits.

💡 Skysat's advice

Don't forget to include a conductivity analyzer (TDS meter) to monitor the quality of the water produced by your desalination plant. High conductivity can indicate a membrane problem or contamination.