TDS Calculator

TDS Calculator

© 2010 – Textile Calculator Ltd.

Disclaimer: All calculators in the Textile Calculator have been reviewed by the relevant textile industry experts.

What is TDS in Textile Manufacturing?

TDS means Total Dissolved Solids. It shows the amount of inorganic salts and small amounts of organic matter in water. In textile wet processing, water quality plays a key role. If water has too many dissolved solids, it can affect dyeing, finishing, and printing results. TDS affects color shades, fabric softness, and process efficiency.

Impact of TDS in Textile
Impact of TDS in Textile

Why TDS Calculation Matters in the Textile Industry

Water is used in dyeing, washing, printing, and finishing. If water has high TDS, colors may change, fabric may feel harsh, and machines may get damaged over time. Textile engineers check TDS before starting any wet process. This keeps fabric quality stable and reduces rework.

How to Calculate TDS

The TDS value is calculated using Electrical Conductivity (EC) and a conversion factor. The formula is:

TDS (ppm) = EC (µS/cm) × Conversion Factor

Here:

  • EC is measured in microsiemens per centimeter.
  • The conversion factor depends on the type of solids.
  • The common factor used in textile factories is 0.64.

For example:
If EC = 1500 µS/cm and Factor = 0.64,
TDS = 1500 × 0.64 = 960 ppm

Best Conversion Factor for Textile Use

Most dye houses and finishing units use 0.64 as a standard factor. However, some prefer between 0.5 and 0.7, depending on their water source. Always use lab results to adjust the factor for your factory setup.

Ideal TDS Range for Textile Processing

Different processes need different TDS limits. Here is a quick view:

ProcessRecommended TDS (ppm)
DyeingBelow 500
ScouringBelow 600
WashingBelow 700
FinishingBelow 500
PrintingBelow 400

If TDS crosses the limit, the process becomes risky. Colors may become dull or inconsistent. You may see patchy or hard fabrics.

How TDS Affects Fabric Quality

Textile factories use chemicals, dyes, and finishes that depend on water quality. If water has high TDS:

  • Dyes may not bind properly.
  • Fabric may lose its shine.
  • Finishing chemicals may not work well.
  • Machines may build up scale.

Low TDS means better quality fabric, consistent shade, and fewer rejects.

TDS in Different Water Sources

Factories may use different water sources. Here’s how they affect TDS:

Water SourceTDS Level (approx.)
Tap Water200–500 ppm
Borewell Water500–1500 ppm
RO Water50–200 ppm
River Water100–300 ppm

Borewell water often has high TDS. Many textile factories use RO systems to lower TDS before using it in wet processes.

TDS Meter vs. TDS Calculator

Factories use a TDS meter for direct measurement. But if you already have EC readings, you can use the TDS calculator. This is useful when meters are unavailable, or for double-checking lab data.

A TDS calculator is fast, reliable, and easy to use. You just enter the EC value and the factor. You get the result instantly in ppm.

Features of the TDS Calculator

  • Accepts EC in µS/cm
  • Let users change the conversion factor
  • Gives instant results
  • Helps with planning water treatment
  • Works for any textile wet process

When to Use the TDS Calculator

Use this calculator:

  • Before starting dyeing or finishing
  • After checking the EC from the lab reports
  • While adjusting water treatment
  • When the water source changes
  • During quality control inspections

This tool helps maintain quality by tracking water behavior.

Benefits of Using TDS Calculator

  • Saves timethe in manual calculation
  • Reduces process failures
  • Supports lab-to-production consistency
  • Helps maintain standard process values
  • Aids in tracking water treatment system efficiency

Using the calculator improves fabric quality and reduces cost.

Final Words

The TDS Calculator is a simple yet powerful tool for textile engineers. It helps maintain water quality and ensures stable results in fabric processing. By using this calculator, you reduce error, save cost, and improve fabric quality. Always check your water’s EC, apply the right factor, and use the TDS value to guide your process.