Re: [Paddlewise] Saltwater to Freshwater "Devices"

Rich wrote;
><< In the West Marine catalogue (p.430/1999 ed)  I saw a  Pur Watermaker
which
> claimed the ability to convert seawater to fresh water via pumping through
a
> semi-permeable membrane. Claim was that 98.4% of the "salt" content was
> removed. It's pretty pricey at $500, and its yield of 2 pints per hour
> sounds about equal to the perspiration that would be needed generate the
> 800lb/sq inch force needed  to force intake water through the membrane.
>
> Anyone have experience with such a unit?

Arthur replied;
The PUR 06 with it's 2 pints per hour of fresh water, would be for survival
only.  A LOT of work for little water.  Of course to have a 06 water maker
in your safety arsonal, would be great.  Would surley be my last possible
resort.
I had a PUR 06 for a back up to my primary PUR 35 water maker.
The taste, it grows on ya.
Below I copied the post I sent to Duane a while back.

>Duane wrote:
Arthur Hebert, sent me an email in the past saying that the higher capacity
manual water
>maker he used on the crossing felt too slow and that if he had to do it
>again, he would get an even higher capacity model.  Do a search for the Pur
>website, and you can see these higher capacity models, which I think ran in
>the $1000-2000 or even more range.
>

Below is the post I sent to Duane a while back;

Greetings Duane,
I used the PUR 35 for my only water source for 15 days on a crossing.
The manufacturer states a 1.2 gallon output per hour, that was probably in
perfect factory conditions with several young bucks taking turns pumping,
using fresh water
(just guessing of course, no scientific data to prove that :>).
I was only able to pump 32oz in approx.. 20 minuets, this was no
fun after paddling 10 to 12 hours.  I played a dangerous balancing act
maintaining adequate hydration.
  If I were to do it over again I will purchase the new
electric PUR 40 which can also be operated manually.
There is a obviously a weight concern of 25 lbs.. for the unit itself not
including the power source, not to mention the finical hit of $2200 US.
I would back up the PUR 35 for it's reliability.  I think they are practical
in a "survivile"situation, a lot of work after or during a hard day
paddling.
If you have any sailing friends you may want to check to see if anyone owns
a 35 that you can test.  That could be a good way to see if it is worth the
cost and effort for your use.
Take care,
Arthur Hebert





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