New animation on how the Flovac system works
Flovac has posted a new animation (click here) on the YouTube channel. The video shows how a Flovac vacuum sewerage system works in a municipal scheme, which could be for either a septic tank replacement project or a new housing development. The same technology can be also applied to other situations, such as marinas and port facilities, hotel complexes and other applications (click here to read more about our projects). For further information about the Flovac system, you can watch more videos on the Flovac YouTube channel.
The Flovac system, explained in less than 1 minute
Vacuum sewerage systems are usually installed in difficult areas where the conventional system (the gravity one) can’t be used. This would be, for example, in terrains without enough natural slope, in areas with a high water table, in rocky lands or in places with difficult access. Vacuum systems are also used in environmentally sensitive areas, as they prevent any leaks into the ground thus avoiding pollution and protecting the ecosystems.
Wastewater flows by gravity from the houses to a collection pit. When 40 liters (10 gallons) enter the pit from the gravity line, air pressure on the valves controller will trigger the vacuum valve to open, allowing wastewater to enter the vacuum mains. There is no need of power in this part of the process as all operations work in a pneumatic way. The pipes, which are installed in shallow trenches at a 0.2% gradient, carry the sewage to the vacuum station.
The vacuum station contains a vacuum tank, vacuum pumps, the control panel and the impulsion pumps, which send the sewage to the treatment plant. A single vacuum station can serve up to 3,000 homes, as well as commercial or industrial areas.
Vacuum Station
Since the pipes are under negative pressure, the entire network can be installed in the same trench as the water or electrical supply, as no wastewater can leak out. This greatly reduces the installation time of the pipe network and the number of trenches required, also reducing excavation costs. The sealing at the vacuum net also prevents any leaks into the ground, thus reducing any environmental risks. This is why the Flovac system is an ideal option for environmentally sensitive areas.
