Poly aluminium chloride

When sourcing PAC, the most critical factor is the Al2O3 (Aluminium Oxide) content, which typically ranges from 28% to 31% for industrial and drinking water grades. You must also verify the Basicity (Alkalinity), usually between 40% and 90%, as it affects the flocculation speed and sludge volume. Additionally, check the Water Insoluble Matter percentage; for high-end applications like drinking water treatment, this should be less than 0.6% to prevent equipment clogging.

The primary difference lies in the heavy metal content (Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium) and the production process. Drinking Water Grade PAC (often spray-dried) must meet strict safety standards like NSF/ANSI 60 or GB15892-2009, featuring a fine yellow powder with very low impurities. Industrial Grade PAC is often darker (yellow to brown) and is used for wastewater treatment where higher heavy metal tolerances are acceptable, offering a more cost-effective solution for non-potable applications.

Spray-Dried PAC produces smaller, more uniform particles with higher stability and faster dissolution rates, making it ideal for precision dosing in water plants. Roller-Dried PAC is generally cheaper but has larger flakes and slightly higher insoluble matter. For long-distance cross-border shipping, Spray-Dried PAC is often preferred because it is less prone to caking under pressure and humidity.

To ensure quality and environmental safety, prioritize suppliers with ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management). For international trade, a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is mandatory for shipping. If the product is for municipal water treatment, ensure the supplier provides a Third-Party Lab Test Report (e.g., SGS or Pony Testing) confirming the product meets the destination country's specific chemical safety limits.

The biggest risk is quality inconsistency between the sample and the bulk cargo. To mitigate this, use Made-in-China.com's 'Audit Supplier' service to verify the factory's actual production capacity. Always insist on Pre-shipment Inspection (PSI) to test the Al2O3 content and moisture levels before the balance payment is made. Another risk is moisture absorption during sea transit; ensure the supplier uses double-layer packaging (PE inner bag + PP woven outer bag).

PAC is a commodity sensitive to the price of raw materials like hydrochloric acid and bauxite. Negotiate based on tonnage tiers, as prices usually drop significantly for full container loads (FCL). For long-term contracts, try to lock in a formula-based pricing model linked to raw material indices. Most professional suppliers on Made-in-China.com will offer a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 1-5 tons for trial orders, but 20-25 tons (one 20GP container) is the most economical unit for shipping.

PAC is classified as a non-hazardous chemical by most maritime authorities, but it is corrosive in liquid form and mildly irritating as a powder. Ensure the cargo is stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse away from toxic chemicals. For shipping, use palletized packaging with shrink wrap to prevent bag breakage during forklift handling at transit ports. Always clarify the Incoterms (typically FOB or CIF) to define who bears the risk during the ocean voyage.

Utilize secure payment methods and trade assurance services provided by reputable platforms like Made-in-China.com. Avoid making full payments upfront to unknown entities; instead, use a 30% deposit and 70% balance against the Bill of Lading (B/L) copy. This ensures the supplier has actually shipped the goods before receiving the final payment. Additionally, verify the supplier's Business License and Export Qualification to ensure they are a legitimate manufacturer rather than an unlicensed middleman.