Buyer takeaway: PAC is a class of polyaluminium chloride coagulants, not one universal grade. Select solid or liquid form, Al2O3 basis, basicity and insolubles, then qualify the proposed grade and lot against the buyer's water.
1. Define the delivered PAC
Polyaluminium chlorides contain aluminum, chloride and hydroxide in different ratios. Commercial products differ in basicity, strength and form. Write the full product name and delivered basis instead of ordering only "PAC" or by colour.
2. Solid versus liquid
| Form | Key buying checks |
|---|---|
| Solid | Al2O3 basis, basicity, insolubles, dissolution, moisture protection and bags |
| Liquid | Al2O3 on delivered basis, basicity, density, stability, tank and transfer compatibility |
3. Specification and COA fields
- Al2O3 minimum and reporting basis
- Basicity range and test method
- Water-insoluble matter, pH, density and appearance as applicable
- Trace-element or destination-standard limits required by the duty
- Recent lot COA, current SDS and packing documents
Higher basicity is not automatically better for every raw-water matrix. The written specification and trial result must agree.
4. Jar-test the proposed grade and lot
Define the raw water, pH, temperature, mixing, settling or filtration criteria, target turbidity/solids and residual limits. Compare candidates on the same test method. A supplier webpage cannot promise a universal dose or removal percentage.
5. Match the actual treatment duty
EPA material identifies polyaluminum chlorides as primary coagulants in drinking-water and municipal wastewater treatment and in sludge dewatering. Industrial applications still require the plant's approval, water data and operating controls.
6. Plan storage and receiving
Solid PAC needs moisture protection and an appropriate dissolution system. Liquid PAC needs compatible storage and transfer equipment. Inspect seals, labels, lot numbers and COA before unloading or use.
7. Normalize commercial offers
Compare the same form, strength basis, basicity, insolubles, packing, quantity, destination and Incoterm. Include freight, storage equipment and the cost of requalification if the formulation changes.
RFQ checklist
- Solid or liquid and water-treatment duty
- Al2O3 basis, basicity, insolubles and test methods
- Water data or jar-test plan
- Quantity, packing, destination and Incoterm
- COA, SDS and destination evidence
Frequently asked questions
Is PAC the same as alum? No. Aluminium sulfate is a different coagulant.
Can PAC be selected by colour? No.
Can a universal dose be quoted? No; qualify the product against the actual water.
Resources and reference
Product/RFQ · Quality documents · Contact. See the EPA PAC supply-chain profile.