Not necessarily. Most RO systems utilize a cartridge filter in the feed line. This filter has a micron rating range of 1-5 microns. The MMF will remove particles of a nominal 10-15 micron rating. Therefore, without the MMF, the cartridge filters will foul fairly quickley. The MMF also keeps suspended solids, from upsets in the system, from entering the other pretreatment vessels.

There are two designs for Vapor Compression stills, Vertical Natural Circulation and Horizontal Spray Film. In the natural circulation design, which MECO utilizes, the orifice sizes are very large (3/8" to 5/8") and will not clogg from suspended solids. On the other hand, the spray film evaporator uses spray nozzles that have tiny openings which can and will become clogged with small particles.