FW400 HTS: The new generation of decanter centrifuges for sludge dewatering

Following its successful world premiere at IFAT 2026, Flottweg is introducing the FW400 HTS, a new decanter centrifuge for sludge dewatering. The machine was specifically developed to meet increasing demands for efficiency, flexibility, and operational reliability and is already being successfully used in its first applications. 

In this interview, Product Manager Dominik Breuherr provides insights into the development and technical features of the new machine.

Who are you and what is your role at Flottweg?

I am a Product Manager for decaners at Flottweg. I oversee the product from concept to finished machine—always with the goal of ensuring it is as reliable, economical, and high-performing as possible for operators. In doing so, we maintain close communication with users and incorporate their requirements directly into the development process so that our solutions function as effectively as possible under real-world conditions.

What is the new FW400 HTS all about?

With the FW400 HTS, we are introducing a new decanter centrifuge for the dewatering of sewage and industrial sludge. The focus is on higher performance, significantly greater flexibility, and a further increase in operational reliability for our customers.

How exactly does a decanter like the FW400 HTS work?

A decanter with a free overflow continuously separates solid-liquid mixtures using centrifugal force: The sludge is fed into the rotating separating chamber, solids are pushed outward, the liquid remains inside and is discharged via an overflow weir. The separated solids are discharged via a scroll.

The FW400 HTS, with a drum diameter of 400 mm, combines a compact design with high separation performance—ideal for demanding applications.

In which application areas is the machine used?

The FW400 HTS is used in both municipal and industrial applications. In sewage treatment plants wherever a high degree of dewatering is required. In industry, the FlexConcept enables the treatment of a wide variety of wastewater streams. Thanks to its robust design and various wear protection solutions, the machine is highly versatile.

Why was the FW400 HTS developed?

Operators today face rising disposal and energy costs. At the same time, the need for simpler maintenance and reduced downtime is growing. We have consistently addressed these requirements and developed a machine that offers greater performance, is more flexible in application, operates energy-efficiently, and reduces operational effort.

What sets the FW400 HTS apart from previous solutions?

The FW400 HTS combines three key advancements: 

• Performance Boost for higher throughput and better dewatering
• FlexConcept for maximum adaptability
• Human-Centered Design for particularly user-friendly operation

Which technical features ensure the performance boost?

A combination of higher bowl speed, optimized geometry, and an expanded torque range ensures significantly improved separation performance. Additionally, a super-deep pond and an open screw design increase throughput while simultaneously reducing energy consumption and polymer usage.

What’s behind the FlexConcept?

The FW400 HTS follows a modular machine concept. This means it can be individually adapted to different sludges and plants. At the same time, it offers high future-proofing: expansions or modifications are possible even retroactively without having to replace the entire machine. For operators, this means: The machine adapts to the process—not the other way around.

How does the human-centered design improve operators’ daily work?

The machine was consistently designed with user needs in mind. A hinged housing facilitates maintenance and cleaning, automated lubrication solutions reduce manual effort, and improved sealing and sound insulation enhance operational comfort. The goal was to make daily operation of the machine as simple and efficient as possible.

What specific benefits do operators see in practice?

The FW400 HTS offers clear economic advantages: 
 

• Higher dry matter content in the sludge reduces disposal costs
• Lower polymer consumption lowers operating costs
• Energy-efficient processes reduce overall consumption

At the same time, its robust construction ensures reliable operation while reducing maintenance requirements.

Is there already field experience?

Yes, the first machines have been in use for over a year in various applications. The results are consistently positive and confirm the performance improvement compared to previous solutions.

Why should operators choose Flottweg?

Flottweg stands for many years of experience and high process expertise in separation technology. We always develop solutions based on the application, tailor our machines individually to the customer’s process, and support our customers from commissioning through to ongoing operation.

In conclusion: How would you describe the FW400 HTS in one sentence?

The FW400 HTS is a powerful and user-friendly decanter centrifuge for sewage and industrial sludge that combines higher performance with maximum flexibility and is consistently tailored to our customers’ requirements.