The selection of the appropriate coagulant is a cornerstone of effective water treatment. For decades, Aluminum Sulfate (Alum) has been a standard choice, but advancements in chemical technology have introduced Polyaluminium Chloride (PAC) as a highly competitive and often superior alternative. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., a leading supplier of water treatment chemicals, breaks down the key differences to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Coagulation Process

Coagulation is the first step in water treatment, where chemicals are added to destabilize and aggregate suspended particles, making them easier to remove. Both Alum and PAC achieve this through mechanisms like charge neutralization and hydrolysis, but their structural differences lead to varying performance characteristics.

Key Comparisons: PAC vs. Alum

  • Chemical Structure and Performance: Alum is a simple salt, while PAC is a pre-polymerized inorganic polymer. This structural difference means PAC has a higher charge density and forms more stable, larger flocs more rapidly. This often results in better turbidity removal, especially in challenging conditions like low temperatures or low turbidity raw water where Alum can struggle.
  • Dosage Requirements: Generally, PAC requires lower dosages than Alum to achieve the same level of water purification. This translates directly into lower chemical consumption and associated costs for users.
  • Sludge Production: PAC typically produces less sludge compared to Alum. Less sludge means reduced disposal costs and less frequent cleaning of sedimentation tanks and filters, contributing to overall operational efficiency.
  • pH Impact: Alum addition significantly lowers the pH of treated water, often requiring a secondary alkaline additive (like soda ash) to re-adjust the pH to acceptable levels. PAC has a less drastic impact on pH, often reducing the need for additional chemicals.
  • Water Quality of Treated Water: The finer flocs formed by Alum can sometimes remain suspended, impacting water clarity. PAC's larger, denser flocs settle more effectively, leading to clearer treated water and fewer residual particles.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: While the unit price of PAC might sometimes be higher than Alum, its lower dosage requirements, reduced need for pH adjustment, and decreased sludge handling often make it the more cost-effective option in the long run. As a direct manufacturer and supplier, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. offers competitive PAC chemical prices.

When to Choose PAC

PAC is often the preferred choice when:

  • Dealing with low-temperature, low-turbidity, or organically rich raw water.
  • Seeking to minimize sludge production and disposal costs.
  • Requiring efficient treatment with minimal pH adjustment.
  • Aiming for superior water clarity and reduced residuals.

Partner with NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. for Your Coagulant Needs

Making the right coagulant choice is essential for efficient and economical water treatment. NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is your reliable partner for high-quality Polyaluminium Chloride. We offer expert advice and competitive pricing to help you select the best solution for your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about our PAC products and how they can optimize your water treatment processes.