Water treatment in construction

The construction sector has been one of the first markets where compliance with the European Water Framework Directive has been implemented. Effective treatment of stormwater and process water is essential and the only way to achieve sustainability goals.

Typical pollutants within a construction or infrastructure project include high levels of suspended solids and metals, as well as elevated pH that needs to be adjusted. Depending on site conditions, additional contaminants may also be present and must be addressed and managed. In addition to effective water treatment, another important factor is minimizing the use of external fresh water throughout a project.

Swedish Hydro Solutions offers high‑quality technologies, expertise, and user‑friendly and safe equipment for efficient water treatment. The treatment is typically based on the biodegradable chitosan flocculant used in our HydroBox, with the possibility to reuse the treated water within the project.

Every project is unique

Swedish Hydro Solutions customizes each project based on actual data on water conditions, project‑specific regulations, and environmental factors. When this information is not available, the project is adapted together with the client to ensure that likely factors are taken into consideration. When possible, soil type, potential drilling methods, cement injections, water volume calculations, and any nearby industrial activities that may affect water quality are evaluated.

If water is available, testing is performed either directly on site or in our laboratories. The goal is always to provide the most cost‑efficient solution for the project. Over the years, the experienced water treatment specialists at Swedish Hydro Solutions have gained extensive expertise in delivering precise solutions — even in situations where water samples or detailed information are missing.

The solution for your market

Swedish Hydro Solutions’ water treatment solutions are centered around biodegradable and environmentally friendly technologies, with a strong focus on maximizing safety for on‑site personnel. For example, chitosan is often used as a flocculant. It originates from bioproducts in the shellfish industry and has proven to be highly effective. Its water solubility eliminates the need for fresh water in the treatment process, while the user‑friendly dosing technology increases efficiency. Notably, chitosan is not only environmentally friendly but also enhances safety for personnel compared to many traditional treatment chemicals.

HydroBox

HydroBox doses chitosan for effective flocculation and precipitation, enabling stable treatment of turbid water and particle‑bound contaminants on site.

Sludge treatment

Suspended solids form sludge that must be handled safely and efficiently — explore the sludge‑management technologies we use in our treatment systems.

Sedimentation

Sedimentation lets suspended particles settle and separate from the water. We use both sedimentation containers and lamella clarifiers for efficient removal.

pH Adjustment

The automated pH adjustment system creates optimal conditions for flocculation and precipitation, using CO₂ to safely reach the required pH level.

BioMedia® filters

Gravity filters with BioMedia® effectively remove heavy metals and reduce a wide range of organic contaminants, from oil‑based to chlorinated.

Physical filtration

In certain applications, we use pressurized filters filled with sand or glass media. Their main advantage is that they can be cleaned and reused through backwashing.

From start to finish

Here is how the process works when you order a solution:

  • Step 1: Initiate contact and share details about the project and the specific water treatment requirements.
  • Step 2: The project documentation, investigations, and specified conditions are reviewed. If water samples are available, treatment tests are performed in the laboratory.
  • Step 3: A treatment system is proposed, properly sized for the project and designed to meet the required discharge limits.
  • Step 4: The Swedish Hydro Solutions team installs the equipment. During the installation phase, the client receives training on how to operate the system. Regular site visits are carried out to calibrate instruments and supply the necessary treatment chemicals.
  • Step 5: Swedish Hydro Solutions’ involvement extends throughout the entire project lifecycle, including planning, commissioning, ongoing support, and potential demobilization.

Need more information?

Want to learn more about water treatment in the construction industry?
Contact us, and we’ll help you find the right solution for your specific needs.

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Projects

Metals, Suspended solids

Ersmark Tunnel

On the Norrbotnia line between Umeå and Skellefteå, the Ersmark Tunnel was excavated, and Swedish Hydro Solutions delivered treatment through two facilities.