Activated carbon quietly does a lot of the work in water treatment, pulling geosmin, taste and odor compounds, and disinfection byproducts out of the water. Carbon only performs the way it’s meant to when the granule size fits the system, and particle size distribution testing of activated carbon shows whether it does.
Why the Range Matters as Much as the Average
A sample can hit the right average size and still cause trouble if the spread is too wide. Too many fines raise pressure drop and cause media loss during backwash. Too many oversized particles cut surface area and shorten how long a bed lasts. A lower uniformity coefficient means a tighter, more predictable range.
Our process follows ASTM and AWWA guidelines for granular activated carbon. A sample is shaken through a stack of sieves, and what’s retained on each screen is weighed to build the distribution curve. To better understand carbon testing methods and their role in filtration performance, click here to explore the available laboratory testing services.
- Utilities: sizing GAC contactors, backwash schedules
- Carbon vendors and filtration manufacturers: checking lots
- Food, beverage, and pharmaceutical manufacturers: dosing PAC
- Engineering firms: specifying carbon media for new designs
Reliable Carbon Media and Water Testing Services
Engineering Performance Solutions (EPS) specializes in testing carbon media and water samples for a diverse range of clients, including carbon vendors, utilities, hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, food and beverage processors, and engineering firms. Our carbon sizing work aligns with additional water and carbon testing, adhering to AWWA- and ASTM-approved methods. Clients have the convenience of mailing in their samples instead of visiting the facility in person. For teams assessing a carbon supplier or seeking a second opinion on a batch before it’s loaded, EPS has a carbon testing page that outlines how to get started.
