This document from June 20, 1922 is the technical “birth certificate” of modern spring collection in Bílina. This report by engineer Arnold Scherrer from the Bad Ems spa goes to the roots – it addresses how to technically ensure that Bílina mineral water remains clean, sparkling and stable even in challenging geological conditions.

The technical heart of springs – Report by engineer Scherrer (1922)

In 1922, the Princely Directorate of Springs in Bílina faced a fundamental challenge: how to modernize the collection of springs while protecting their unique composition. The document we present to you is an expert report by engineer Arnold Scherrer, which describes in detail the technical facilities hidden deep underground in the spa area.

Emphasis on absolute purity: Tin and bronze

Scherrer's report reveals the Lobkowiczs' uncompromising approach to quality. To prevent the slightest contamination of the mineral water, the most expensive materials available were used for the pipes:

  • Pure tin: All pipes for distributing mineral water were made of tin, which does not react with minerals or carbon dioxide.
  • Special bronze: Castings made of specially developed bronze were used for the key fittings at the main “Rock Spring” (Felsenquelle).

Fighting a moving mountain

The report provides fascinating evidence of the geological complexity of Bílina. Engineer Scherrer describes the phenomenon of "sliding bedrock", where layers of marl move over a gneiss base. This movement threatened the stability of the shafts and the nearby spa house (Kurhaus). The document describes an ingenious system of protective pillars and seals made of plastic clay, which were intended to counteract these movements.

Technology for preserving “bubbles”

The key to the success of the Bílinská kyselka is its natural carbon dioxide content. Scherrer describes in the report the installation of piston pumps in the Josef shaft, which were set to run very slowly. This “gentle” pumping method was designed to prevent the release of gas from the water during its journey to the surface – thanks to this, the water remained naturally sparkling as we know it today.

This report is proof that Bílina's fame was not only due to its natural wealth, but also to top European engineering and a willingness to invest in the best technologies of its time.

### **FROM THE MUSEUM ARCHIVE: The Technical Heart of the Springs – Engineer Scherrer's Report (1922)**

In 1922, the Princely Spring Directorate in Bílina faced a fundamental challenge: how to modernize the spring capture system while protecting its unique chemical composition. The document presented here is an expert report by Engineer Arnold Scherrer from Bad Ems, detailing the technical infrastructure hidden deep beneath the spa grounds.

#### **Commitment to Absolute Purity: Tin and Bronze**
Scherrer's report reveals the uncompromising approach of the Lobkowicz family towards quality. To prevent even the slightest contamination of the mineral water, the most expensive materials of the time were used:
* **Pure Tin:** All mineral water distribution pipes were made of tin, which does not react with minerals or carbon dioxide.
* **Special Bronze:** Custom-cast bronze fittings were used for the critical points of the "Rock Spring" (Felsenquelle).

#### **The Battle with Moving Ground**
The report provides fascinating testimony to the geological complexity of Bílina. Engineer Scherrer describes the phenomenon of "sliding strata," where layers of marlstone move across the gneiss bedrock. This movement threatened the stability of the shafts and the nearby Spa House (Kurhaus). The document details an ingenious system of protective pillars and plastic clay seals designed to withstand these geological shifts.

#### **Technology for Preserving the "Sparkle"**
The key to Bílinská Kyselka's success is its natural $CO_2$ content. In the report, Scherrer describes the installation of plunger pumps in the Joseph Shaft, which were set to a very slow pace. This "gentle" pumping method was designed to prevent the release of gas from the water during its journey to the surface, ensuring the water remains naturally carbonated.

This report is proof that Bílina's fame was built not only on natural riches but also on top-tier European engineering and a willingness to invest in the best technologies of the era.