CORODEX Electromechanic has been awarded a major project in Abu Dhabi that utilises one of the largest indoor vacuum sanitation systems in the Middle East.

The system has been chosen for this project due to the complex architecture of the building, which limits the use of conventional gravity drains as well as to accomplish Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (Leed) certification by saving 80 per cent of toilet flushing water compared with the conventional toilet flushes.

Corodex, a partner and official representative of Germany’s Roediger Vacuum in the Middle East, has for the past 10 years achieved success in securing prestigious contracts for the outdoor vacuum sewer systems, which replace conventional gravity sewer systems. Corodex and Roediger aim to repeat their successes this time with the indoor systems.

“RoeVac vacuum toilets require only one litre of water per flush compared with conventional toilets that use between 6 and 10 litres per flush, resulting in huge savings in water use,” says a spokesman for Corodex. “The volume of water required for urinals can also be reduced considerably and wash basins can be fitted with water-saving tap aerators.”

Vacuum sanitation technology is used in buildings and at locations where huge savings in water use are either required or can be generated. The technology is ideal where there is a high density of sanitation units required or where the frequency of use is high, such as in railway stations, airports, restaurants and hotels, hospitals, office buildings, highway rest areas and excursion pavilions.

“Vacuum sanitation systems offer enormous flexibility for the pipe layout during both planning and installation. Main pipes may be installed in the suspended ceilings. This gives the possibility of connecting sanitation units from above and from various levels to only one single collection pipe. Pipelines do not need to be installed in a slope and are independent of natural slopes,” he says.

“Unlike conventional sanitation systems, the whole pipe network in a vacuum system is constantly under negative pressure. This means that the system is vacuum sealed and no leak air can be infiltrated. A central vacuum station, comprising vacuum pumps, collection vessel, discharge pumps and associated controls, is generally located in the basement of a building and generates the necessary under pressure. In this closed type system, evacuation units serve as connection to the separate sanitation units. Those open the valve whenever waste water has to be sucked off. The evacuation valve of the vacuum toilets can be activated by pushing a button,” the spokesman explains.

In addition to new buildings, ideal applications for vacuum technology are where the sanitation systems of old buildings are to be renewed.

Citing some of the major advantages of this system, the spokesman says it is an ideal water-saving technology and it offers absolute freedom in design and high flexibility of pipe layout.