Suspended solids & SVI analysis.Discover S3A

Hardness analysis for water

A compact 3S analyser for hardness monitoring in treated water, ion exchange and boiler-water applications.

Follow low-level hardness through your water-treatment process

Use an online hardness trend to see changes between sample checks and investigate treatment breakthrough. Start by defining the hardness measurement your process needs, the reporting units and the concentration at which operators should respond.

Confirm whether calcium hardness or total hardness is required. The published calcium method should not be assumed to represent calcium and magnesium together in every water matrix.

Where the measurement is useful

Ion exchange

Review treated-water quality at a representative point and set alarms appropriate to the process.

Boiler feedwater

Bring the required hardness measurement together with sample conditioning and the wider water-quality checks.

Reverse osmosis and treatment

Use a suitable sampling point to investigate feed or treated-water conditions alongside laboratory measurements.

3S colourimetric analyser cabinet

How the measurement works

The manufacturer describes a calcium-based colorimetric method: calcium reacts with a complexing reagent to form a violet colour. Results are reported as calcium carbonate, CaCO3.

The 3S-CL runs batch analyses at a programmable frequency. Automatic calibration, validation and cleaning can be scheduled, and the analyser separates its wet section from the electronics.

Agree the required range, cycle time and plant outputs when specifying the instrument. The manufacturer documentation gives the options and installation requirements for the selected configuration.

Plan the installation around the sample

Send PMA the sample source, expected concentrations and available laboratory results. Include temperature, pressure, solids and any constituents that may affect the analysis.

We will review sample delivery, filtration or dilution where needed, drainage, reagent storage and service access. Include the required signals and alarm response so the measurement can be used by your operating team.

PMA engineer servicing the sample and reagent lines of a 3S colourimeter

Looking after your world since 1971

PMA helps you bring the analyser, sample system and site requirements together. Talk to our team about selection, commissioning, reagent supply and support for your installation.

A question worth asking

Is the result the same as total hardness?

The published 3S method measures calcium and reports hardness as CaCO3. If your specification requires total hardness, including magnesium, ask PMA to confirm the suitable method and configuration for that requirement.

Let’s talk about your application.

Speak to the PMA team about your instruments, reagents or service requirements. Tell us what you need, and we’ll help you find the right next step.

  • Advice for your application. Find the right instruments, sensors and chemical reagents for your process.
  • Practical service support. Discuss commissioning, calibration, maintenance or an instrument issue with our team.
  • Clear next steps. Ask a technical question or request a callback, with your site and measurements in mind.
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