Call us today: 01707 707627
Emergencies: 07826 079196
BLOCKED INTERCEPTORS
OUR SERVICES
Drainage interceptors, also known as drain separators, serve as a protective barrier to prevent contaminants from entering surface water drains. Often referred to as petrol interceptors or oil separators, these tanks are strategically installed within drainage pipework with the purpose of collecting and retaining contaminants. This includes substances like petrol and oil that might wash into the surface water drain during rainfall.
Implementing and maintaining drain interceptor systems can assist your business in adhering to environmental regulations while also mitigating the risk of unwarranted downtime and unforeseen service calls.
Why do you need a drain interceptor?
A drain interceptor trap's primary function is to prevent contaminants' flow into the primary surface water sewers. It plays a crucial role in managing waterborne pollutants such as oil, petrol, and various other substances, ensuring they do not enter the main sewer line.
Typically, drain interceptors are located in commercial or industrial settings, including petrol stations, car parks, production/manufacturing areas, and storage facilities. These installations are particularly essential in areas with higher likelihood of water contamination.
How do drain interceptors work?
Drain interceptors serve the purpose of eliminating contaminants from surface water before it enter the primary sewer system. The process involves a sequence of tanks or chambers, where surface water from roads and car parks enters the initial chamber, designed to vent odours and gases safely. Heavy solid contaminants settle within the interceptor at the tank's bottom, while lighter oils ascend to the top.
The clarified water then progresses through the system and is released into the main sewer system, as depicted in the accompanying image.
What drain interceptors are available?
Interceptors come in various types, with the primary distinctions being full retention interceptors and bypass interceptors.
Full retention interceptors are crafted explicitly for high-risk locations, aiming to comprehensively treat the entire water flow passing through. These interceptors are typically deployed in areas susceptible to high contamination risks, such as petrol forecourts, fuel depots, manufacturing plants, and regions with substantial traffic flow.
On the other hand, bypass interceptors are utilised in areas with an acceptable risk of not providing full-flow treatment, such as car parks and roadways. During intense rainfall, these interceptors treat the initial volume and then permit a portion of the rainwater to bypass the treatment section.
For guidance on selecting the right interceptor for your site or discussing wastewater management, please get in touch with DYNAMO 24/7.
When should drain interceptors be emptied?
Ensuring the ongoing functionality of a drain interceptor system is essential for your business to comply with environmental regulations and avoid unforeseen issues such as flooding or emergency call-outs resulting from debris blockages.
While the Environment Agency suggests emptying interceptors every six months, it is not mandatory guidance. Depending on your circumstances, a less frequent emptying schedule may be sufficient. Nonetheless, your business's responsible for preventing on-site pollution, making routine sampling and diligent maintenance tracking imperative.
