Feasibility studies, laboratory & pilot tests

A well-founded approach to your water treatment project.

Every water stream has its own composition and requires a tailored treatment. Particularly with complex process water and wastewater streams, it is important to investigate the potential of different treatment techniques in advance.

At PCA Water, we carry out laboratory and pilot trials to assess the applicability of techniques, investigate process parameters and support the technical choices for a future installation.

Why test? Gaining insight and supporting decisions

Insight into water quality

We analyse the composition of the water stream and identify the key points of attention for its treatment.

Comparing treatment techniques

Through targeted tests, we evaluate different techniques and possible combinations, taking into account the specific water quality and treatment objectives.

Defining design criteria

We investigate relevant process parameters such as dosages, pH, flow rates, pressures and removal efficiencies. The results can serve as a basis for the further development and sizing of an installation.

What can PCA Water do for you?

In our laboratory

In our laboratory, we carry out small-scale trials to investigate the performance and applicability of different treatment techniques.

Water analysis & characterisation

Analysis of relevant water quality parameters, such as COD, BOD, suspended solids, pH and conductivity.

Physico-chemical jar tests

Comparison of coagulants and flocculants, dosages and pH settings, with attention to floc formation, settling and removal efficiencies.

With our pilot units

Our pilot units allow us to investigate different treatment techniques on a larger scale. Depending on the application and practical possibilities, we carry out these tests at PCA Water itself or on site at the customer’s premises. This allows us to monitor performance and relevant process parameters under different conditions.

Physico-chemical treatment

Practical tests of coagulation, flocculation and separation processes, with attention to chemical consumption, settling behaviour and sludge formation.

Membrane filtration

Pilot trials with membrane techniques such as microfiltration, ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis (RO). Among other things, we monitor permeate quality, flux, pressure and potential membrane fouling.

Ion exchange & adsorption

Column tests with different ion exchange resins and adsorption media to investigate removal efficiencies, breakthrough behaviour and the influence of operating conditions.

Vacuum evaporation

Using our vacuum evaporator, we investigate the possibilities of treating and concentrating water streams by evaporation. Among other things, we assess distillate quality, pH, conductivity, foaming, concentration factor and any sludge deposits in the boiler.

Our 4-step approach

1. Intake & water analysis

We discuss the water stream, the current situation and the project objectives. Available analyses and any additional sampling form the starting point.

2. Feasibility study & laboratory tests

We select potential treatment techniques and carry out targeted laboratory trials to investigate their applicability and relevant process parameters.

3. Pilot trials (optional)

If additional practical data is required, we can test selected techniques on a larger scale, at PCA Water or on site at the customer’s premises. We monitor performance under the selected test conditions.

4. Evaluation & technical proposal

We evaluate the test results and discuss the possible treatment solutions. On this basis, we can draw up a technical proposal with relevant design criteria and points of attention.

Get in touch

From research to well-founded water treatment.

Laboratory and pilot trials help to assess treatment options and better align technical choices with the specific water stream and the project objectives.

Talk to our experts

Frequently asked questions

How much water is needed for a representative laboratory test?

The amount of water required depends on the planned analyses and the treatment techniques to be investigated. A few litres may be sufficient for small-scale laboratory tests, while larger volumes are needed for more extensive pilot trials. For a test with our vacuum evaporator, for example, we usually allow for around 500–700 litres. We always determine the required sample volume according to the specific test.

Is a laboratory or pilot test always required before building an installation?

Not necessarily. For common applications, we can often draw on existing experience and established design principles. For more complex water streams or specific contaminants, additional tests can provide valuable information.

Discuss your project with our engineers

Leave your details. Our technology specialists will analyse your specific process parameters and provide you with a targeted technical proposal.

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