Testing Services

ECHA offers microbiological testing of a wide range of industrial fluids, products and materials.  We have a unique specialist expertise in analysis for the manufacturing, engineering, aviation, marine, petroleum and energy sectors.

We offer testing to a range of industry standard methods (IP, ASTM, EN, BS, USP, BP) but can also design and adapt methods to meet your specific requirements.  We can also conduct short and long-term laboratory investigations to assist in your research and development plans.

Examples of the type of microbiological testing we conduct are;

• Testing of fuels oils and metal working fluids (e.g. to IP 385, IP 613 /ASTM D7978, IP 472 and ASTM D7463)
• Challenge testing to evaluate biocide and preservative efficacy in fuels and oils, finished products, fluids & materials (e.g. to ASTM E979, E1259, E2275, USP51)
• Testing to investigate Microbially Influenced Corrosion (MIC) (e.g. NACE TM0-194)
• Molecular based microbiological analyses including qPCR and Next Generation Sequencing
• Testing of Paints & Coatings; including ‘dry-film’ and ‘in-can’ challenge/preservation testing (using both standard ASTM D2574, D5590, IBRG and in-house methods)
• Disinfection efficacy testing against bacteria and fungi to CEN/TC 216, ASTM and JISC standards.
• Bioburden / Microbial Limits testing of finished products and raw materials (Total Aerobic Microbial Count (TAMC) and Total Yeasts & Mould Count (TYMC) by USP 61/62, EP 2.6.12/2.6.13)
• Assessment for hazardous or objectionable microorganisms (Coliforms, E.coli, Enterococci, Pseudomonas, Legionella, Staphylococcus, Clostridia, etc.)
• Bacterial Endotoxin Testing (BET) (USP 85 / EP 2.6.14: gel-clot method)
• Microbiological analysis of waters, including potable, recreational, process and hot waters (e.g. Total Viable Count (TVC) / Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC / Aerobic Colony Count (ACC)) and specified microorganisms.
• Identification of microbial contaminants
• Environmental air sampling and monitoring

We can also provide non-microbiological analyses, including:

• Water content, FAME content, filterability and particulates in fuels and oils and other petroleum industry specification tests (e.g. IP 438, IP 387, D2276, IP 415/ASTM D6217, ASTM D4176)
• Waste Discharge Analysis / Trade Effluent (e.g. Oil in Water, BOD, COD, TOC)

Value Added Service

ECHA prides itself on its value-added approach to analysis, with clear and easy-to-understand reporting which guides you through the significance of results, and recommendations for appropriate next steps.  We provide a prompt turnaround and, if needed, interim reporting of results to meet urgent requirements.  Using ECHA’s analysis service, you will also have direct access to our Consultancy services.