Solution
Industries
Resources
About
Beacon Search

Major Reverse Osmosis System Components for Water Treatment: The Global Market

Report Code: MST049C

Publish Date: Sep 2009

Publisher: BCC Publishing

Category: Water-Membrane and Separations

Customize This Report

Explore Our Services

Already a member? Login to access this report free.

Report Highlights

  • Overall sales of reverse osmosis system components were worth $1.9 billion in 2005, and increased to nearly $2.6 billion in 2009. By 2014, it is projected to increase to nearly $3.7 billion, for a 5-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3%.
  • In the U.S., the municipal market was the largest of the RO systems components segments with an estimated $493 million in value for 2009. That is expected to increase to $675 million by 2014, for a 5-year CAGR of 6.5%. The industrial segment was second with an estimated $338 million in value in 2009.

INTRODUCTION

STUDY GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

This comprehensive business opportunity report evaluates the global markets for reverse osmosis (RO) system components. These components include pretreatment cartridges, pumps, pressure vessels/housings, RO membrane modules, and ancillary elements such as skids, valves, and gauges. Existing and potential markets for RO on the global stage are identified. The goals are to provide meaningful information, unbiased analysis, and an assessment of the roles that RO systems can play now and in the future of water treatment technology. Twenty-nine countries’ water needs are evaluated in four global regions.
 
The heart of an RO system is the membrane module. Though many different polymer types of semipermeable membrane are possible, the commercial market consists primarily of thin-film composite polyamide formed into a spiral-wound configuration. Improved low-pressure membranes, large-diameter membranes, and non-fouling membranes have been important technology trends. Currently, a number of new materials types are in development. 
 
Pressure vessels/housings are critical elements in the successful operation of RO and nanofiltration (NF), or membrane softening, systems. Fiberglass-reinforced plastic and stainless-steel pressure vessels are the predominant types associated with industrial and municipal RO systems. RO operation tends to fall into three distinct operating pressure ranges. The low-pressure applications are in the 40 psi to 65 psi range. The mid-range operating pressure for brackish water and wastewater is generally about 150 psi to 250 psi. High pressure RO is for seawater desalination and tends to be in the 800 psi to 1,200 psi range. Pressure vessels are designed to last for the lifetime of the system, or about three to four changes of membranes.
 
Using membrane or depth filter cartridges prior to RO maximizes pure water production and minimizes the costs associated with chemical additives. Cartridges used for RO pretreatment can be depth filters, dead-end membrane microfilters or microfiltration (MF) operated in crossflow. With proper pretreatment, the RO system can meet design specifications, resulting in optimum performance and the lowest overall expenditure.
 
Although pumps used in RO systems represent a relatively small percentage of total system cost, they must be selected carefully to avoid inefficient operation, downtime, or reduced productivity and return on investment. The choice of a proper pump is especially important in seawater desalination applications because of the corrosive atmosphere and highly demanding process conditions. Positive displacement plunger pumps or centrifugal pumps are most commonly used in RO applications. Booster pumps, a much smaller market, can be used in situations where normal system pressure is low, but needs to be increased.
 
Numerous ancillary and miscellaneous components are needed to complete the construction of a large, complex RO system. Depending on system size and application, these may include valves, gauges, computer controls, hoses, piping, plugs, racks, skids, holding tanks, manifolds, control panels, conductivity meters, float switches, metering equipment, and tanks for chemicals. What type and how many of these components are used in a particular plant depend on the site and size of the RO system.
 
For RO consumables, membranes and filters, new as well as replacement sales are considered in this report. As far as possible, adjustments and normalizations for currency evaluations have been made. 
 
REASONS FOR DOING THE STUDY
 
The need for pure water is a problem of global proportions. With each passing year, the quality of the planet’s water measurably deteriorates, presenting challenges for the major users: the municipal, industrial, military, and agriculture/environmental sectors. Water treatment has become an area of global concern as individuals, communities, industries, nations, and their national institutions strive for ways to keep this essential resource available and suitable for use. RO systems have, over the past 30 years, emerged as an effective solution to transform saline, brackish, and contaminated water into a useable and/or potable product. The RO technology sector still has areas of promising activity and a market for replacement and upgraded equipment.
 
INTENDED AUDIENCE
 
This report is designed to be as comprehensive as possible. It is created to be usable by a broad audience of business, technical, and regulatory practitioners on a global scale. This document is an information source on the industry, a reference manual on an advanced technology and its system components, and a resource that provides information to decision-makers who need to stay abreast of the state of the art.
 
This report presents analysis and forward-thinking knowledge that will be of advantage to manufacturers, suppliers, and to local, state, and the federal government as well as foreign governments. Engineers, utilities, and corporate planners will benefit in accessing the global components and demands for RO systems.
 
SCOPE OF REPORT
 
This study is divided into specific system component chapters dealing with the RO membranes, the pressure vessels/housings, the cartridge filters/prefilters, the pumps, and other ancillary components such as valves, gauges, skids, racks, piping, manifolds, computer controls, and piping needed to complete a functional system. Quantitative evaluations are given for the major market segments, historically and for a 5-year horizon. The global scope of the RO market is identified within four major geographical regions with information on some 29 countries evaluated as to economics, demographics, and water needs.
 
Costs of consulting, engineering, and real estate are excluded from system costs. NF is considered as a membrane “softening” process or a divalent or trivalent ion-removal technique that is a subset of RO.
 
The RO market in this study is centered on purified water produced for municipal, industrial, military, and agriculture/environmental markets. It does not address wastewater issues, with the exception of wastewater as an integral part of a reuse and recycle system. 
 
METHODOLOGY
 
Both primary and secondary research methodologies were used. Research for this report began with a re-analysis of the available technical and business literature, as well as an evaluation of the personal records of the water treatment industry available to the author. Conversations with industry experts and company representatives and a review of their published works provide the backbone for an evaluation of the RO equipment water treatment industry. Other sources of information include product literature from RO equipment suppliers, patent information, and annual reports.
 
Growth rates of RO system components are not the same for all world regions and are not increasing from the same base. Common to all regions, however, is that sales of RO technology are growing faster than the gross domestic products (GDPs) of countries installing the systems and more rapidly than the industries that use them. Forecasts in this report are based on announced projects and anticipated capacity additions over the next 5 years. 
 
Sales dollars are as received by membrane manufacturers and converted to U.S. dollars. Equipment costs such as pumps, motors, pressure vessels, and pretreatment are evaluated separately. Post-treatment, civil works, real estate, engineering costs, computer automation, and installation are not included. Costs are adjusted to reflect U.S. dollars. Currency conversions are normalized as well as possible. Much of the historic information is from BCC data.
 
INFORMATION SOURCES
 
The information sources for this study include online research, patent literature, technical journals, and interviews with principals in the industry. In evaluating the global market for water treatment using RO, information was obtained from the U.S. Department of Commerce; U.S. Department of State; Aquastat, the United Nation’s global water information system; and publications from the International Desalination Association, European Desalination Association, and the Middle East Desalination Research Center. Projections for each market are made in terms of constant dollars. Historical values are for the year given.
 
BCC ONLINE SERVICES
 
BCC offers an online information retrieval service. BCC’s home page, located at www.bccresearch.com, enables readers to:
  • Examine BCC’s complete catalog of Market Research Reports and place direct orders
  • Subscribe to any of BCC’s many industry newsletters
  • Read announcements of recently published reports and newly launched newsletters
  • Register for BCC’s well-known conferences
  • Request additional information on any BCC product
  • Take advantage of special offers
DISCLAIMER
 
The information developed in this report is intended to be as reliable as possible at the time of publication and of a professional nature. This information does not constitute managerial, legal, or accounting advice; nor should it serve as a corporate policy guide, laboratory manual, or an endorsement of any product, as much of the information is speculative in nature. The author assumes no responsibility for any loss or damage that might result from reliance on the reported information or its use. 
Need pricing for multiple titles, a complete report bundle, or something specially curated to fit your budget? EXPLORE OFFERS
Let us assist you! Our analysts are ready to tailor this report to your specific need. Talk to Our Analyst

Table of Contents

All reports provided in PDF format. For shared licensing options (5+ Users), please call a representative at (+1) 781-489-7301 or contact us at info@bccresearch.com
[+] Show Chapter Details
Title/Chapter NamePagesMember Price
Full Report: Major Reverse Osmosis System Components for Water Treatment: The Global Market303Free
Chapter- 1: INTRODUCTION5Free
Chapter- 2: SUMMARY4Free
Chapter- 3: OVERVIEW OF THE WATER TREATMENT INDUSTRY39Free
Chapter- 4: RO MEMBRANE MODULES22Free
Chapter- 5: PRESSURE VESSELS/HOUSINGS10Free
Chapter- 6: CARTRIDGE PREFILTERS FOR RO SYSTEMS18Free
Chapter- 7: PUMPS FOR RO WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS20Free
Chapter- 8: ANCILLARY COMPONENTS11Free
Chapter- 9: MAJOR MARKETS FOR RO WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS IN THE U.S.37Free
Chapter- 10: PATENT SURVEY5Free
Chapter- 11: INTERNATIONAL REVERSE OSMOSIS MARKET OUTLOOK132Free

Related Reports

Track the Latest Global Tariff Developments

In today's fast-paced global economy, tariffs are no longer static—they are dynamic levers shaped by geopolitical realignments, supply chain vulnerabilities, inflationary pressures, and sustainability-driven trade reforms. As governments worldwide recalibrate their trade strategies, businesses are left to navigate a maze of shifting rules, rising costs, and regulatory uncertainty.

Our analysis empowers you with real-time updates and in-depth expert analysis on all facets of global tariff activity. From new trade agreements and sanctions to abrupt tariff hikes and retaliatory duties, we monitor developments across borders, sectors, and industries—so you don't have to.

Whether it's the ongoing U.S.–China trade dynamics, the evolving EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), or the emerging policies in India, ASEAN, and Latin America, we provide full-spectrum coverage. We also track multilateral trade negotiations, World Trade Organization (WTO) rulings, and sector-specific duty structures—ensuring you are always ahead of global trade shifts.

With our analysis, you can stay informed, identify risks, and confidently respond to tariff changes—no matter where you operate.

Ready to see what tariff means for your business?

Consult with our experts or request your custom Tariff Impact Brife today

Stay Informed, Stay Competitive

In today's interconnected and unpredictable global economy, staying ahead of tariff shifts is not just important—it's essential. BCC Research provides decision-makers with trusted, research-driven insights that turn uncertainty into opportunity.

Our in-depth market analysis and trade intelligence help you decode how tariff changes impact your specific sector—manufacturing, healthcare, technology, agriculture, or energy. We break down complex data into actionable knowledge through comprehensive reports, expert commentaries, and sector-focused forecasts.

Our analysis includes:

  • Thorough breakdowns of current and proposed tariff policies and how they affect regional and global trade flows.
  • Sector-specific implications, helping you understand the strategic impact on sourcing, pricing, and competitiveness.
  • Forward-looking insights to support risk management, planning, and response strategies for evolving trade conditions.

With BCC Research, you gain more than just information—you gain clarity and confidence to make well-informed decisions in a volatile trade environment.

Don't let tariffs catch you off guard—let our insights guide your strategy.

This is an Excel-only version of the report.

Report Includes

    Total Number of Tables in this Report: 47

  • Summary Table: GLOBAL VALUE OF RO SYSTEM COMPONENTS FOR WATER TREATMENT, THROUGH 2014
  • Table 1: WORLD WATER WITHDRAWALS BY SECTOR, 2008
  • Table 2: WATER MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY NEEDS
  • Table 3: TYPICAL RO PERFORMANCE IN REMOVING CONTAMINANTS
  • Table 4: SEAWATER DESALINATION, PLANT SIZE AND COST, 1991-2005
  • Table 5: WIND-POWERED DESALINATION PLANTS BY LOCATION, 1998-2011
  • Table 6: DESALINATION AND WATER PURIFICATION ROADMAP: NATIONAL NEEDS AND RECOMMENDED R&D
  • Table 7: ESTIMATED GLOBAL RO DESALINATION CAPACITY BY REGION, 2008
  • Table 8: COUNTRIES EVALUATED AND RO MARKET STATUS
  • Table 9: VALUE OF RO SYSTEMS IN THE U.S. BY MARKET SECTOR, THROUGH 2014
  • Table 10: VALUE OF RO SYSTEMS IN THE REST OF THE WORLD BY MARKET SECTOR, THROUGH 2014
Sample Report

Recent Reports

Pharmaceutical Filtration: Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST082C

The global market for pharmaceutical filtration is expected to grow from $12 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $20.3 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Membrane Bioreactors: Global Markets

Published - Aug 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST047G

The global market for membrane bioreactors is estimated to grow from $4.4 billion in 2025 to reach $9.4 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.1% from 2025 to 2030.

Smart Water Management: Global Markets to 2030

Published - Jun 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST083A

The global market for smart water management is expected to grow from $23.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $43.7 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Major Reverse Osmosis System Components for Water Treatment: The Global Market

Published - Nov 2024 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST049H

The global market for RO system components is expected to grow from $18.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $32.0 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.2% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029.

Ultrafiltration Membranes: Technologies and Global Markets

Published - Sep 2024 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MST044G

The global market for ultrafiltration membranes was valued at $4.9 billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow from $5.2 billion in 2024 to $8.2 billion by the end of 2029, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% from 2024 to 2029.

Top Trending Reports

Global Data Center Market

Published - Jul 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - IFT320A

The global market for data centers is expected to grow from $418.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $691.6 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.6% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Bioprocess Filtration: Global Markets

Published - Oct 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MDS043B

The global market for bioprocess filtration is estimated to grow from $8.4 billion in 2025 to reach $15.6 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.1% from 2025 through 2030.

Contract Manufacturing of Medical Devices: Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - MDS039B

The global market for contract manufacturing of medical devices is estimated to grow from $96.4 billion in 2025 to reach $155.2 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10% from 2025 to 2030.

Immunotherapy Drugs: Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - PHM249B

The global immunotherapy drugs market is expected to grow from $260.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $467.4 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.4% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Biological Therapies for Cancer: Technologies and Global Markets

Published - Nov 2025 | Publisher - BCC Publishing | Code - BIO048E

The global biological therapies market for cancer is expected to grow from $157 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $225 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2030.

Published - Sep-2005| Analyst - Susan Hanft| Code - MST049B

Report Highlights

  • The 2005 global market for RO membranes and system components is estimated at $1.9 billion and is expected to rise at an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 10.3% to more than $3 billion in 2010.
  • Through 2010, current and future users are projected to add more than 2.5 billion gallons per day of RO capacity.
  • The U.S. leads the world in expenditures for RO equipment with $848 million in 2005, and will continue to be the largest purchaser.
  • With an estimated market size of $433 million, the Asia-Pacific region currently ranks second and is rising the fastest, at an AAGR of 12.1%.
Published - Jul-2001| Analyst - Anna Welch Crull| Code - MST049A

Report Highlights

  • The total worldwide market for reverse osmosis systems exceeded $1.4 billion in 2000.
  • Growing at an average annual rate (AAGR) of 9.7%, the market is expected to top $2.2 billion in 2005.
  • The U.S. market is the largest, representing 57% of the total. Growing more slowly than other areas in the world, its share will drop to 55% in 2005.
  • Fastest growth is expected in the Asia/Pacific region, at an AAGR of 12%. In 2005, this market will be nearly equal to the number 2 market in Europe.
  • Worldwide in 2000, 13% of all expenditures were for pressure vessels/ housings.

Become A Member

BCC Research offers a comprehensive library of reports, granting members unlimited access to data, insights, and market intelligence for informed business decisions, while actively supporting members in their evolving journeys and prioritizing high-quality, relevant topics based on continuous engagement with the research community.

Find Out More

Custom Consulting

BCC Research emphasizes the importance of organizations leveraging highly customized market insights aligned with specific strategic business objectives through direct engagement with primary sources and proprietary forecasting models for profitable decision-making in maximizing growth opportunities and minimizing risks.

Customize Now

Scorecard

The Venture Scorecard provides commercialization offices and decision makers with expert analysis, offering strategic insights crucial for aligning objectives with market realities at various stages of commercializing new products or evaluating investment opportunities, from opportunity assessment to growth planning.

Find Out More

Innovation Spotlight

Our industry experts offer strategic guidance to maximize the market potential of commercialized products, patents, and IP by providing insights into market trends, competitive dynamics, and effective positioning, using the Innovation Spotlight service for enhanced exposure to thought leaders and the wider community.

Find Out More
Major Reverse Osmosis System Components for Water Treatment: The Global Market
Customize This Report
Customize Report
Stay Informed

Join our mailing list for the latest report releases and upcoming event notifications.

Headquartered in Boston, Mass., for over 50 years, BCC Research takes pride in being your trusted custom research and data analysts. Our mission is to provide businesses with reputable data and market research reports, so that they gain new perspectives into their field and better understand their target audience. We enable companies to access reliable information, accurate forecasts, and actionable insights, so that they may become leaders in their industry.
Contact
© 2025 BCC Research
Privacy Policy |Site Map|Terms & Conditions
AI Sentiment