Case Study: EDI Purified Water for R&D Labs

Reliable, high-purity water is critical in biotechnology and pharmaceutical R&D to ensure accuracy and uphold the integrity of research. MECO designs advanced water treatment systems that integrate electrodeionization (EDI) and reverse osmosis (RO) to meet the most stringent industry standards, including ASTM Types I, II, III and USP requirements. These systems deliver consistent lab-grade water to support critical research applications—like the system we designed for the oncology-focused biotech lab featured below.
Project Highlight: EDI System for Oncology Biotech Lab – San Diego, CA
We completed the installation of a new EDI system for an R&D Lab. The new system will support research activities on biologics in the areas of hematology/oncology and certain fibroid diseases.
Our water engineers in San Diego, California built an advanced EDI system (designed by CRB Engineers in collaboration with Water Works) that included sanitary heat exchange to cool DI water to 74 degrees and maintain it at that temperature.
The 30 gallons/ min high-efficiency RO + EDI system provides exceptional reliability due to being operated by a PLC–based controls at low operational cost.
System Design & Execution
Built in collaboration with CRB Engineers and our San Diego-based team (formerly Water Works), the system includes:
- Sanitary heat exchanger to cool DI water to a precise 74°F and maintain it for temperature-sensitive processes
- 30 GPM high-efficiency RO + EDI system for continuous ultrapure water supply
- PLC-based control panel for real-time monitoring, automation, and performance optimization
This validated system delivers exceptional reliability and water quality, aligned with the demanding requirements of biopharmaceutical R&D.
Electrodeionization Water Treatment
Electrodeionization (EDI) technology uses electricity and ion exchange resins to continuously remove dissolved salts and impurities—producing ultrapure water without the need for chemical regeneration. It’s a highly sustainable and reliable solution ideal for labs where consistent water quality is essential.
Reverse Osmosis Water Process
The reverse osmosis water process complements electrodeionization water treatment by removing most dissolved solids, organic compounds, and other contaminants before the water enters the EDI system. MECO’s solutions, like the MASTERpak™ MICRO, integrate reverse osmosis and EDI into a single efficient package, offering flexibility, low maintenance, and seamless integration with advanced technologies.
A well-planned EDI and reverse osmosis water filter installation delivers a stable supply of ultrapure water for the life sciences industry, aligning with pharmacopeia guidelines and research objectives.
Innovation and Sustainability in Water Purification
MECO’s solutions are engineered not only for compliance and reliability but also for sustainability and innovation.
The MASTERpak™ MICRO features:
- 100% RO water recovery
- Up to 40% smaller footprint
- Energy-saving ultra-low-pressure membranes
- Dynamically controlled softening and cooling systems
- Infrared-certified welds to reduce biofilm risk
These features help life sciences facilities conserve water, reduce energy consumption, and operate more efficiently—without sacrificing performance.
Why Trust MECO?
With over 96 years of experience, MECO is the trusted partner for life sciences and pharmaceutical companies around the world. Our customized ultrapure water systems are engineered for compliance, reliability, and sustainability—backed by a global support network and unmatched service expertise.
We Bring the Ultrapure Water. You Bring the Breakthroughs.
From lab-scale R&D to full-scale biomanufacturing, MECO delivers purified water systems that power innovation at every step. MECO’s expertise in electrodeionization water treatment and reverse osmosis water filter installation ensures that R&D labs and biopharmaceutical facilities can access consistent ultrapure water, thus maintaining the highest standards in their research and production activities.
These systems support critical applications such as biological research, where precision and compliance with international standards are non-negotiable. Contact our experts today for more details about our solutions.