Grease traps are “indispensable” equipment for catering establishments. What you need to know

By CrimeaNEWS On Ноя 22, 2023

CrimeaPRESS reports:

Grease traps are equipment designed to capture fats and oils from wastewater that is generated as a result of culinary operations in kitchen areas such as restaurants, cafes, canteens and other food service establishments — ecoseti.ru/catalog/zhirouloviteli/. The devices play an important role in preventing contamination of sewer systems and water resources.

Main functions of grease traps:

trapping fats and oils: the devices are equipped with special compartments and filters that allow fats and oils to accumulate and settle inside the device.
separation of water and fat: Heavy fat particles, passing through grease traps, settle at the bottom, and lighter water remains at the top.
preventing sewer pipes from clogging: By trapping fats and oils before they go down the drain, grease traps prevent pipes from clogging.
compliance with standards and regulations: The use of grease traps is part of compliance with environmental and public health standards and regulations.
Facilitation of maintenance of water treatment systems: Grease traps help prevent the formation of grease deposits in water treatment systems such as biological treatment plants.

Grease traps come in different types, including:

mechanical grease traps: Filters and settling chambers are used to trap fats.
biological grease traps: Microorganisms are used to break down fats and oils.
electric grease traps: Electrical methods are used to trap and remove grease.

An important point: grease traps, despite their simplicity, are equipment that requires careful maintenance. They need to be regularly maintained, which includes cleaning. Only in this case will these “kitchen gadgets” do their job in full, and even for a long time.

Grease traps — manufacturing materials

Grease traps are made from a variety of materials depending on their type, size and design. Here are some typical materials used to manufacture such equipment:

stainless steel: one of the most common materials for making grease traps. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant, strong and durable. It also makes it easy to clean and maintain.
plastic: In some cases, grease traps can be made from high-strength plastics such as polypropylene. Plastic is chemical resistant but may be less durable than stainless steel.
reinforced concrete: For large underground or above ground grease traps, reinforced concrete is often used. This material provides strength and resistance to soil and external conditions.
fiberglass (fiberglass): Fiberglass grease traps can be lightweight and durable. They are also corrosion resistant and chemical resistant.
combined materials: Some designs use a combination of different materials to optimize strength, durability and weight.

The choice of material depends on a number of factors, such as the type of grease trap, location, size, purpose and budget. For example, small household grease traps often use stainless steel, while industrial installations may require more durable materials such as reinforced concrete.

Grease traps — where to use them exactly

Grease traps are typically installed in food service establishments where food preparation occurs and where there is a potential risk of wastewater being contaminated by fats and oils. Here are a few typical foodservice establishments that often install grease traps:

Restaurants:

Restaurants often use large amounts of fats and oils when preparing a variety of dishes. Installing a grease trap prevents these substances from entering the sewer system.

Cafes and coffee shops:

Establishments that prepare coffee, baked goods, and other foods may also need to install grease traps, especially if fats are used in the cooking process.

Fast food and snack bars:

Fast food places also often install grease traps, since many dishes are prepared using oils and fats.

Canteens and kitchens of catering establishments:

Kitchens and cafeterias in establishments such as schools, hospitals, corporate services and others can also use grease traps to treat wastewater.

Bars and nightclubs:

In establishments where cocktails and other drinks are prepared, it may also be advisable to install grease traps.

Please note that the installation of grease traps is mandatory in many countries and regions in accordance with environmental legislation and wastewater treatment regulations. This aims to prevent contamination of sewer systems and water resources by fats and oils and to ensure compliance with sanitation standards.

Are there standards by which grease traps are produced?

Well, follow-up questions: how to choose such equipment, and where to purchase it?

By and large, of course, there are standards governing the production and use of grease traps. While different countries and regions may have different regulations, the manufacture and installation of grease traps are often subject to local building and environmental regulations.

When it comes to choosing and purchasing grease traps, it is important to consider several key points:

size and performance: determined in accordance with the needs of a particular catering establishment. Sizes may depend on the volume of food produced and the daily wastewater flow.
material.
technologies and additional functions: Some modern grease traps may be equipped with additional options such as automatic cleaning or fill level monitoring. Evaluate whether these features are needed and how they can make maintenance easier.
installation and maintenance: It is worth paying attention to the installation and maintenance instructions to ensure that the equipment is installed and maintained correctly.
reliable supplier: Buy grease traps from reliable suppliers who guarantee that the equipment meets the standards.

Grease traps are available from specialist kitchen equipment manufacturers and through dealers and water treatment suppliers. It is important to thoroughly research the market, compare different options and select the equipment that best suits your needs and respects no standards.

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