A vacuum drainage system is an innovative wastewater management solution that uses negative pressure to transport liquids and solids through a closed pipe network. Unlike traditional gravity drainage, which relies on downward slopes, vacuum drainage systems can move waste against gravity, making them highly efficient in various environments.
EVDS are experts in vacuum drainage so if you are looking for more info, get in touch with us today.
How Does a Vacuum Drainage System Work?
A vacuum drainage system consists of three main components:
- Vacuum Pumps and Collection Chambers – These create and maintain the negative pressure needed to transport waste.
- Valve Units – Located at each drainage point, these valves control the entry of waste into the system, opening when needed and sealing shut otherwise.
- Pipe Network – A system of small-diameter, lightweight pipes that transport waste rapidly to the collection station.
When a waste fixture (e.g., toilet, sink, or floor drain) is used, the valve unit opens, and the pressure difference propels the waste through the system to the central collection chamber, where it is then pumped to the main sewer or treatment facility.
We have a number of different solutions for different types of scenarios.
Building Solutions
The Evac wastewater handling solution is a closed system which consists of vacuum toilets, vacuum interface units, vacuum piping, vacuum collection tanks and wastewater treatment plants. The solution is based on vacuum, not gravity, which makes it possible to flush the waste horizontally or even vertically into overhead piping and, if needed, around obstacles.
The Evac solution is environmentally friendly. With low water use – up to 80 % less than used in conventional toilets – it reduces sewage volumes and thus meets the requirement of small environmental footprint. The grey waters, originating from wash basins and being flushed through the Evac wastewater handling system, are clean enough to be used for irrigation or toilet flushing. Read more about this here.
Supermarket Solutions
At EVDS we help supermarkets with drainage for their freezers and freidgerators, facilitating the modification of store layout design so supermarket operators can adjust the size and location of refrigeration case, add free-standing departments, and cross merchandise refrigeration, frozen, and shelf-stable products easily. Remodel budgets and timelines no longer have to restrict adjustments to store layouts. Read more about this subject here.
Food waste vacuum drainage solutions
In commercial and industrial kitchen areas, storing food waste in open garbage bins is unhygienic and can result in cross contamination. Food waste starts to rot quickly, generating strong odours and even toxic corrosive gases. With the Bvac Food Waste System, waste is processed and transported in an enclosed vacuum piping network to a dedicated holding tank that can be located away from food-preparation areas. With vacuum drainage you benefit from a high degree of flexibility in terms of piping routing and layout. The macerated waste can then be treated at a biogas plant and used for energy production. Read more about this subject here.
Benefits of a Vacuum Drainage System
Vacuum drainage systems offer numerous advantages, making them ideal for a range of applications:
1. Flexibility in Installation
- Can be installed in areas with challenging terrain, such as flat landscapes, unstable ground, or flood-prone zones.
- Requires fewer and shallower trenches than traditional gravity systems, reducing excavation costs.
2. Reduced Water Usage
- Uses air instead of large volumes of water to transport waste, making it more environmentally friendly.
- Ideal for water-scarce regions or sustainable building projects.
3. Leak Prevention and Hygiene
- The closed system design minimizes the risk of leaks and contamination.
- Prevents unpleasant odors and reduces the spread of bacteria and pests.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
- Lower installation costs due to reduced excavation and smaller-diameter pipes.
- Minimal maintenance requirements compared to gravity drainage systems.
5. Rapid Waste Transport
- Ensures quick and efficient removal of wastewater, reducing blockages and stagnation.
Where Are Vacuum Drainage Systems Used?
Due to their unique advantages, vacuum drainage systems are widely used in various industries and settings, including:
– Airports and Train Stations: Ideal for large facilities with complex layouts where traditional drainage would be costly and difficult.
– Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Ensures hygienic waste removal, reducing the risk of contamination.
– Shopping Centers and Commercial Buildings: Flexible installation makes them perfect for retrofits and expansions.
– Ships and Offshore Platforms: Used in marine environments where gravity-based drainage is impractical.
– Public Toilets and Remote Locations: Effective for areas with poor existing infrastructure.
How Does a Vacuum Drainage System Compare to Gravity Drainage?
| Feature | Vacuum Drainage System | Gravity Drainage System |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Requires fewer and shallower trenches | Requires deep excavation and sloped pipelines |
| Water Usage | Uses air, significantly reducing water consumption | Requires large amounts of water |
| Flexibility | Can transport waste against gravity and around obstacles | Limited to natural slopes |
| Hygiene | Enclosed system minimizes contamination risks | Open ventilation increases exposure risks |
| Cost | Lower installation and maintenance costs | Higher costs due to excavation and large pipes |
Is a Vacuum Drainage System Right for Your Project?
If you’re considering a vacuum drainage system, factors such as site conditions, project scale, and sustainability goals should be evaluated. This technology is particularly beneficial for locations where gravity drainage is impractical or expensive.
At EVDS, we specialize in designing and installing vacuum drainage solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how a vacuum system can benefit your project.
Final Thoughts
Vacuum drainage systems represent a modern, efficient, and sustainable alternative to traditional gravity drainage. Their ability to function in diverse environments while reducing water usage and installation costs makes them a preferred choice for many industries. If you’re looking for a cost-effective and reliable drainage solution, a vacuum system may be the perfect fit.