The aim of this paper is to critically assess the standard capillary suction time (CST) test and to propose a modified device (prototype) and a revised CST procedure. The empirical CST test (using a circular funnel) is well established as the leading method for the determination of sludge dewaterability in spite of its current shortcomings such as restricted modelling possibilities, and therefore the ability to predict physical processes such as the amount of water bound by the paper. Nevertheless, the CST apparatus is portable, and the method is easy to conduct, quick, cost-effective and accurate, if the product of solid concentration and average specific resistance to filtration is of interest. A novel prototype with a rectangular instead of a circular funnel incorporating a stirrer (optional), and using a cheaper paper with similar or improved characteristics is proposed to reduce consumable costs and improve dewaterability interpretation. (c) 2005 Society of Chemical Industry