Enhancing spiral-wound ultrafiltration performance for direct drinking water treatment through operational procedures improvement: A feasible option for the Sao Paulo Metropolitan Region

► A long term spiral wound ultrafiltration membrane performance was evaluated. ► Specific operational procedures and chlorination improved permeate production by almost 50%. ► A 2 year continuous operation period demonstrated weather seasons affect membrane performance. ► Concentrate clarification and recirculation resulted in an increased system water recovery.