Difference between the gravity flow system and marine vacuum collection
Gravity flow systems are either pressurized or open channel systems. In the pressurized system, pipes are used to hydraulically connect two open water surfaces. The hydraulic link exists between two points meaning that one can affect the flow of the other. In the open channel system, the entirety of the flow path between the two points is a water surface that is open to the atmosphere. In the marine vacuum collection, differential pressure is important for the transport of waste and wastewater. Toilets bowls and collection basins are directly connected to the vacuum piping. The differential pressure that exists between the vacuum piping and the atmosphere will open the valves and force the discharged sewage to the vacuum and finally to the collection tank. The collection tank will store sewage until it accumulates to a sufficient volume before it is discharged into an onboard treatment plant and holding tank prior to its disposal.
Benefits of marine vacuum collection system
The system is a more cost effective solution because it reduces the need for a large space to accommodate waste disposal treatment. This is definitely an advantage for ships that travel to ports where discharge of waste is not allowed and during bad weather conditions where disposal might not be possible. The system also allows for more flexibility in design because pipes can be routed around stationary air ducts, bulk heads and other equipment. A vacuum toilet will significantly reduce water consumption compared to the typical gravity flow flush toilets. The vacuum toilet only requires about a half gallon of water or two liters compared to traditional toilets that need about 1.6 gallons or 6 liters. Since the vacuum system is not dependent on gravity, you can flush in any direction whether upwards or downwards. Toilets can be installed in any place inside the vessel and the floor need not be cut so that pipes can be installed for a new toilet.
Vacuum collection systems can be installed in different types of vessels from yachts to cruise ships and its collecting units are optimized for each application. They are designed to be reliable even under heavy duty conditions. If the system is installed it becomes a cost effective and efficient part of the wastewater collection and treatment system onboard vessels. The total concept of the vacuum collection system fulfills a wide range of customer requirements including aesthetics, hygiene, durability and compliance with environmental regulations.