A method is provided for converting feedwater to fresh water utilizing existing
water pressures and high flow rates. At least one reverse osmosis unit is disposed
in a feedwater supply conduit. Feedwater is conveyed through the supply conduit
and the reverse osmosis unit at a pressure that exceeds the osmotic pressure for
solids dissolved in the feedwater. A first stream of fresh water is withdrawn from
the reverse osmosis unit as permeate, and a second stream is withdrawn therefrom
as effluent. The effluent is returned to, or continues to flow in, the supply conduit
downstream of the reverse osmosis unit.
