S3A suspended solids settlement analyser
Sludge settlement analysis, automated
The S3A automates routine activated-sludge settlement testing using a compact 210 ml sample. It measures MLSS, SVI, settled sludge level, supernatant clarity and floating sludge during a 30-minute unattended test.
One sample. Five essential measurements.
Settled sludge level
See how the sludge blanket develops throughout the 30-minute settlement cycle.
Mixed liquor suspended solids
Measure MLSS in approximately 10 seconds from a compact 210 ml sample.
Designed for routine use
Reduce manual jar-test handling with a self-contained, repeatable workflow for activated-sludge process checks.
Simpler settlement analysis. Clearer process decisions.
S3A brings the core measurements of an activated-sludge settlement test together in one automated routine, helping operators compare process condition over time.

Follow settlement behaviour
Track settled sludge level and SVI
Allow the S3A to follow the settlement process for 30 minutes while the operator continues with other routine work.

Measure MLSS
Measure Mixed liquor suspended solids up to 50–6,500 mg/L
Use the S3A result alongside site observations and operating procedures to support routine process checks.
One compact analyser, built around everyday wastewater checks.
01.
Settled sludge level
Report settled sludge level from the 30-minute automated settlement cycle.
02.
Mixed liquor suspended solids
Check MLSS from 50–6,500 mg/L, with stated accuracy of ±10%.
03.
Suspended solids concentration
Use one automated test to review MLSS, SVI, SSL, supernatant clarity and floating sludge.
04.
Optional SSVI and SSSL
An optional stirrer extends the analysis with stirred SVI and stirred settled sludge volume.
05.
Results storage
Store 28 results per site profile, across three profiles. Optional MODBUS RTU supports client-system access to supported readings; specify when ordering.
06.
UK support and calibration
Access product support, operator guidance, and calibration assistance from PMA.
What operators need from settlement analysis
S3A brings MLSS and settlement analysis together in one compact, automated instrument for routine activated-sludge process checks.

“Follow settled sludge level as the sample completes its 30-minute analysis.”
Settlement measurement
Sample-based sludge assessment

“Measure mixed liquor suspended solids in around 10 seconds from a 210 ml sample.”
Solids measurement
Mixed liquor suspended solids

“Store repeatable results by location, with date and time.”
Site-specific calibration
Calibrate for the sludge being tested
30-minute settlement cycle. Follow settled sludge level throughout the test and review automatically calculated results when the cycle is complete.
Up to 50–6,500 mg/L. Measure mixed liquor and suspended solids with one portable field instrument.






Built for practical wastewater process checks
S3A brings MLSS and settlement analysis together in one compact, automated instrument for routine activated-sludge process checks.
Key S3A measurements
30 minutes
Settled sludge level
The automated settlement cycle reports settled sludge level and SVI.
50–6,500 mg/L
MLSS range
Measure mixed liquor suspended solids from a representative sample using the compact S3A analyser indoors.
See how S3A supports automated MLSS and settlement analysis across wastewater treatment processes.
Simple workflow, repeatable records
Site-specific calibration
S3A provides a consistent workflow for sample preparation, analysis and result storage.
Results by location
Store up to 28 results for each of three locations, helping operators compare results over time.
Discover the S3A workflow, measured parameters and practical support options.
Made for routine site work
Designed for repeatable process checks
Compact and self-contained, S3A is designed for safe-area wastewater treatment works and routine activated-sludge process checks.
Clear settlement results
The analyser records the measurements needed to review settlement behaviour without continuous observation.
Compact sample workflow
A 210 ml sample and automated 30-minute cycle make routine settlement checks simpler to complete and compare.
Review the S3A measurement range, optional stirrer functions and operating conditions.
S3A guidance for better settlement testing.
Use these practical S3A guides to compare test workflows, choose an analyser and understand the measurements produced during settlement analysis. Start with the suspended solids analyser guide, then follow the connected MLSS, specification and product pages. Explore our industrial effluent treatment and food and beverage wastewater application guides, including dedicated brewery and distillery routes.
Choosing a sludge settlement analyser
Check measurement range, test method, sampling requirements and result storage before specifying an analyser.
Manual vs automated testing
Compare manual and automated settlement testing, including timing, MLSS, SVI and completed-result records.
S3A measurement parameters
Explore MLSS, SVI, SSL, supernatant clarity, floating sludge and the optional stirred measurements.
Make routine settlement MLSS checks faster, clearer and easier to act on.
Talk to PMA about S3A for your wastewater application
Whether you operate a conventional activated-sludge plant, SBR, MBR or Anammox process, PMA can help you assess whether S3A suits your sample conditions and routine monitoring needs.
