DESSALATOR AC CRUISE D100 NAVIGATOR

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the assembly, installation, operation, and maintenance of the DESSALATOR AC CRUISE D100 NAVIGATOR watermaker. Please read this manual carefully before operating the device.

Manufacturer Information:

DESSALATOR ®
ZI des 3 Moulins, 282 rue des Cistes
Bâtiment Euro 92
06600 Antibes, France
www.dessalator.com
contact@dessalator.com
+33 4 93 95 04 55

List of Components

Hull Valve

The hull valve should be placed as low as possible in the boat to avoid drawing in air. For motorboats, install it towards the back; for sailboats, center it near the keel. The strainer's ribs should face the front of the boat to facilitate water entry by scooping during navigation. The strainer stops large particles at the system's entrance.

Prefilter

The prefilter should be placed close to the hull valve, ideally beneath the waterline for better yield. If not possible, an optional pre-pump can be installed. It filters solid particles in seawater down to 5 microns. It includes a tool for screwing/unscrewing the tank, a solenoid valve for automated rinsing, and a 3-way valve.

Diagram showing the Hull Valve and Prefilter components.

Front Control Panel

The front control panel includes a high-pressure manometer, a flowmeter, a start switch, a knob for pressure adjustment, an operating hours counter, and three indicator lights. Dimensions are provided for cutout and mounting.

Diagram illustrating the Front Control Panel with dimensions.

Motor/Pump Block

The motor/pump block should ideally be placed beneath the waterline for optimal yield. It is composed of a 230V or 120V motor and must be installed in a ventilated space. A fuse holder is provided.

Diagram showing the Motor/Pump Block with dimensions.

Membrane Block

The membrane block contains three seawater membranes mounted in a compact block. It should preferably be mounted horizontally. Fastening is done using self-tapping screws. It is recommended to sheath the high-pressure pipe to prevent vibrations.

Diagram illustrating the Membrane Block.

Piping (supplied by Dessalator®)

High-pressure piping connects the pump to the membranes and the membranes to the control panel. An 8-meter pipe is provided and should be cut into two parts. Four special DESSALATOR® fittings are included for high-pressure piping. Fresh water production piping runs from the membrane block outlet to the dashboard.

Assembly

1) List of supplies necessary for assembly

• Screws (self-tapping and more)
• Stainless steel ties (Ø 8-16mm and Ø 12-22mm)
• 'Electrician' plastic ties
• Teflon tape
• Loctite 542 liquid or Loctite 577 paste
• Polyurethane sealant, Sicaflex or equivalent
• Corrugated sheath for electric cables and high-pressure tubes
• Braided-core flexible hose (Ø 10mm and Ø 12mm inner diameter, 3mm thick)
• Various tools (drills, saws, Ø21mm hole saws, etc.)

2) Seawater inlet

The seawater inlet valve's strainer should be placed as low as possible beneath the waterline to prevent air intake and away from discards. Pierce the hull with a Ø21mm hole saw. Ensure the strainer's ribs face the front of the boat for water scooping. Seal the junction with the hull using polyurethane sealant or Sicaflex and paint the submerged part with underwater paint. The hull valve must remain accessible for maintenance. Seal connections with Loctite 577.

3) Motor/Pump Block

For optimal production, the motor/pump block assembly should be low, horizontal, and protected from water sprays. Use the provided stainless steel legs for mounting. Ensure sufficient airflow for motor ventilation. Connect the prefilter outlet to the pump's suction-side using Tricoflex piping (Ø 12mm) and stainless steel collars. Connect the pump's high-pressure head to the membrane inlet with a high-pressure hose. Apply Loctite or threadlock to male and female cones before connecting.

Diagram showing the Motor/Pump Block assembly connections.

4) Electric connections

WARNING! Never work with the power on! Turn off the power of your entire system.

The control panel requires direct current. The 230V (or 120V) motor connection uses the cable from the control panel. Connect the neutral cable (blue wire), phase cable (brown wire), and ground wire (yellow/green wire) to the motor.

Diagram illustrating the electric connections for the 230V or 120V Motor.

5) Membrane Block

The membrane block should be mounted horizontally. A vertical position may lead to yield loss. Fasten using self-tapping screws. Sheath the pipe connecting the pump to the membrane inlet to prevent vibration. Follow assembly instructions for high-pressure nozzles. Apply Loctite or threadlock to cones before tightening. An optional 90° elbow fitting is available.

Diagram showing the Membrane Block connections.

6) Control panel

Mount the control panel on a vertical panel, ensuring easy access to the back for connections and visibility of indicator lights. Connect hoses for high-pressure membrane outlet, water outlet, fresh water outlet, and discharge. Connect the 230V (or 120V) power supply and motor power supply, ensuring a circuit breaker is in place.

Diagram illustrating the control panel connections.

7) Micro Remote Control (optional)

The Dessalator® Micro Remote Control allows restarting, stopping, rinsing, and monitoring the watermaker (for Automatic and Navigator versions). The remote is intuitive. LEDs indicate status: RED for ALARM, YELLOW for POOR QUALITY, GREEN for GOOD QUALITY, and BLUE for STATUS. The blinking speed of the YELLOW LED indicates water pressure.

Note: It is best practice to slowly build up water pressure to prolong membrane life. For frequent use, consider a machine with Automatic Pressure Regulation.

Diagrams showing the Micro Remote Control and its indicator lights.

Start-Up

1) Precautions before start-up

WARNING! Before starting-up, check that the valves are open.

Mandatory:

• For first-time use, after filter changes, or after long periods of inactivity, flush the system with fresh water using the three-way valve on the prefilter.
• Purge the system for 1 minute with the watermaker stopped and the pressure regulator open (counterclockwise).
• Once the system is filled, return the valve to the seawater position.

Note: If the watermaker will not be used for a month or more, sterilize the membranes for storage (up to 6 months) or rinse monthly. Before restarting after a long period, rinse for two minutes.

2) Starting-up the watermaker

Automatic mode: Set the switch to ON. The pressure regulator will automatically adjust to the green zone on the pressure gauge. This takes about 3 minutes. The watermaker will then produce fresh water, and its quality will be checked.

Manual mode: Activate within 10 seconds of starting. Set the switch to ON. Gradually turn the pressure regulator knob clockwise to increase pressure until it reaches the green zone. This takes about 1 minute. The device will reset to Automatic mode for the next use.

Diagrams illustrating the control panel for starting the watermaker in automatic and manual modes.

Note: Fresh water yield depends on seawater temperature and salinity.

3) Stopping the watermaker: without rinsing of the membranes

If the watermaker is used regularly, rinsing is not necessary. Set the switch to OFF to stop the watermaker.

Diagram showing the control panel switch to turn off the watermaker.

If the watermaker is unused for over 10 days, it is recommended to rinse the membranes before the next start-up.

4) Stopping the watermaker: with automatic rinsing of the membranes

Rinsing is required if the watermaker will not be used for more than 10 days. After use, do not turn off immediately. Turn the pressure regulator knob counterclockwise to engage rinsing. The manometer pressure will drop. The green and yellow LEDs will illuminate, indicating rinsing is in progress (30 seconds). After rinsing, the green and yellow LEDs turn off, leaving a flashing blue LED on the switch. Turn the switch to OFF if not using the Mini Remote Control.

Diagrams showing the control panel during the automatic rinsing procedure.

5) Using the Micro Remote Control (optional)

After initial setup with the control panel, the Micro-Command can be used to monitor status or stop the watermaker. To start from STANDBY, press and hold the button for 2 seconds. A blue LED and two beeps will confirm the operation. The watermaker will then start. LEDs on the Micro-Command mirror the control panel indicators. The blinking speed of the YELLOW LED indicates water pressure.

Note: It is best practice to slowly build up water pressure to prolong membrane life. For frequent use, consider a machine with Automatic Pressure Regulation.

LED Status Guide:

• LEDs are on
• LEDs are flashing
• LEDs are off

Operation

Membranes are delicate components

Reverse osmosis membranes require careful maintenance. Follow instructions to avoid damage and warranty voidance. Nominal production capacity is based on 25°C seawater and varies with salinity. Flow rate decreases by 2.5-5% for every degree Celsius below this temperature.

Extremes temperatures

Do not expose membranes to temperatures below 0°C, as freezing can cause overpressure and rupture. Do not expose membranes to temperatures above 60°C, as high temperatures can prevent salt removal.

Drying out of the membranes

After first use, keep membranes immersed in liquid (treated seawater, fresh water with sterilizing solution, or fresh water). Refer to Sterilization methods (Appendix A4).

Recommendations for use

Seawater quality and salinity affect membrane yield.

WARNING! Do not use this system in muddy or polluted water, or at the mouth of rivers or brackish water, as this can clog the prefilter and damage the membranes.

Maintenance

WARNING! In case of frost risk, empty the flowmeter, disconnect the output pipe (blue), and blow or inject air into it while pressing the solenoid valve button. Protect membranes from cold with blankets or insulation.

1) Membranes maintenance

A natural flow drop of 10-15% over time is normal. If yield is unsatisfactory, consider replacing membranes. Output volume is established within the first 24-48 hours and depends on seawater salinity, temperature, and working pressure. Rinsing can improve yield.

2) Rinsing frequency of the membranes

Rinsing membranes after every use is not necessary and can lead to premature deterioration. Two flushing methods exist: manual and automatic. Both use the boat's freshwater tanks. Rinse the watermaker if it will be unused for several days.

Reminder: All flushing procedures should be done with the motor/pump block off. Pressurized fresh water is the biggest enemy of membranes.

Manual Rinsing

A valve near the prefilter connects to the boat's freshwater tank. Turn this valve to start the freshwater system and supply the watermaker. Ensure the watermaker is OFF, the pressure regulator is fully counterclockwise, and the fresh water inlet valve is open for 2 minutes. The boat pump will start, and fresh water will flow into the watermaker.

Automatic Rinsing

Refer to page 16, "Stopping the watermaker: with automatic rinsing of the membranes.".

3) Sterilizing the membranes

Monthly rinsing is usually sufficient. Sterilization is necessary if the watermaker is unused for extended periods. Sterilization's protective effect lasts up to 6 months. It should be done no more than twice a year, with a mandatory fresh water rinse between sterilizations. Excessive sterilizing solution concentration can corrode membrane heads. Use the recommended ST2 sterilization cartridge and specified solution. Failure to comply voids the warranty.

Membranes sterilizing procedure

1. Easy method using the ST2 sterilization cartridge (reusable): Follow instructions provided with the cartridge.
2. Manual method without the ST2 sterilization cartridge: With the watermaker off, rinse for 10 minutes with fresh water using the 3-way valve on the prefilter. Pour sterilizing product into a bucket with 8 liters of water. Uncouple the seawater inlet pipe and immerse it in the bucket. Start the watermaker without increasing pressure until the bucket is empty. Reconnect the pipe.
3. Method using a garden sprayer: Mix sterilizing product with 8 liters of fresh water in a bucket. Fill a garden sprayer, increase pressure to 3-4 bar, and inject the solution at the membrane inlet.

Note: Before reuse, rinse with fresh water for a few seconds using the 3-way valve on the pre-filter to eliminate the sterilant.

Important: Before next start-up, rinse the system with fresh water for 10 minutes, remove the ST2 cartridge, and replace it with a 5-micron cartridge.

Note: The ST2 cartridge can be reused.

4) High-pressure pump

The high-pressure pump is half-filled with oil (15W40 or 20W40 multigrade). Do not exceed the indicated level. The oil does not require changing.

Spare Parts

DESSALATOR® devices are reliable and require minimal servicing. However, spare and maintenance parts are available:

• 5µm 10-inch filter
• Transmission belt
• Electronic card
• Membranes head
• Nozzle for high-pressure piping
• Flowmeter tube (sold by the meter)

Accessories:

• Mini Remote Control
• Micro Remote Control
• Complete ST2 sterilizing cartridge
• Sterilizer in sachet
• Mineralizer cartridge
• Mineralizer in sachet
• Nipple for high pressure tube
• HP nozzle elbow

Appendix A1: How do watermakers work?

How does reverse osmosis work?

Pressurized seawater enters membranes that act like molecular sieves, allowing only fresh water molecules to pass. Most dissolved solids are evacuated with discharge water. Reverse osmosis extracts 99% of impurities. The produced drinking water is consumable and can be treated with commercially available products if stored.

A mineralizing cartridge is available for long-term drinking of the produced fresh water.

How does your watermaker work?

Seawater enters through the thru-hull valve, passes through the 5-micron prefilter, and is pressurized by the high-pressure pump. Pressurized water flows through the membrane surface, separating salt and bacteria, which are discharged with the remaining solution. Fresh water passes through a salinity probe. If desalinated, a 3-way valve directs it to the tanks. If salinity is too high, the water is rejected. A flowmeter controls drinking water production. Production capacity is given for 25°C seawater, with yield decreasing by 2.5-5% per degree Celsius drop.

Appendix A2: Mounting of the DESSALATOR® high-pressure nozzles

1. Screw the brass fitting onto the high-pressure hose counter-clockwise to the vertical mark.
2. Place the brass plug in the stainless steel nut and tighten firmly.
3. Apply a little grease to the stainless steel cone tip and screw it straight into the brass fitting until the thread disappears (approx. 7mm space between nut and fitting).
4. Unscrew the conical adapter nut. The nozzle is ready for the pipe from the pump to the membrane. Sheathing with another pipe is recommended for vibration protection.
5. IMPORTANT: Ensure the nozzle is not clogged by blowing into the pipe or inserting a screwdriver.

Remember to apply Loctite or threadlock on male and female cones when reassembling.

Diagrams illustrating the mounting of high-pressure nozzles.

Appendix A3: Manual Rinsing Procedure

Your DESSALATOR® system has an automatic rinsing feature. For manual rinsing:

Seawater position

For use in desalinization mode.

Fresh water position

For manual rinsing or sterilization when needed.

Closed position

For changing the filter cartridge.

Diagram showing the prefilter with its three positions.

Normal position

The valve handle is in the seawater position.

Diagram illustrating the normal position of the prefilter valve.

Manual rinsing position

Place the valve handle in the fresh water position for manual rinsing and sterilization.

Diagram illustrating the manual rinsing/sterilization position of the prefilter valve.

Appendix A4: Instructions for the Sterilizing Cartridge

With the watermaker OFF:

• Close the seawater inlet valve.
• Open the sterilizing cartridge, being careful not to lose the O-ring.
• Remove the top screen.
• Place the foam at the bottom of the filter.
• Pour the sterilizing powder into the cartridge.
• Replace the top screen and close the cartridge.
• Check the seal is correctly in place.
• Remove the 5-micron cartridge from the prefilter.

Diagrams showing the removal and replacement of the 5-micron cartridge with the sterilizing cartridge.

Turn the rinsing valve to the fresh water position (see Appendix A3) so that the sterilizing powder mixes with the water. Close the valve before all powder disappears. The watermaker should not be turned on during sterilization. Duration of sterilization: 6 months maximum.

Important: Before the next start-up, rinse the system with fresh water for 10 minutes, remove the ST2 sterilizing cartridge, and replace it with a 5-micron cartridge.

Note: The ST2 cartridge can be reused.

Appendix A5: Troubleshooting

Appendix A6: Guide of the Indicator Lights of the Micro Remote Control

Legend: Indicator lights are on, Indicator lights are flashing, Indicator lights are off.

Appendix A7: Circuit diagram of the electronic board

A circuit diagram of the electronic board is provided, detailing connections for various components including sensors, valves, motors, and power inputs.

Circuit diagram of the electronic board.

Appendix A8: Schematic drawing

A schematic drawing illustrates the overall system layout, showing the interconnections between the control panel, membrane block, motor/pump block, pre-filter, and hull valve, along with pipe types and dimensions.

Schematic drawing of the watermaker system.