CURRENT CLEANING METHODS
The common current methods of cleaning of vacuum cleaning toilet discharge pipe work all have their disadvantages and problems:
 Periodical dosing from the WC / Toilet
A small quantity of concentrated chemical is flushed down the toilet at the end of each line. Unfortunately this is ineffective, as the
chemical quickly dissapates and dilutes within a small section of pipeline having little or no effect on the removal of large scale build up.
This method can also cause blockages by removing chunks of scale in one area which can lodge further down in the system.
Pour and soak method
Certain lines/toilets are taken out of operation whilst the lines are saturated in a mixture of acid and water. All toilet discharges
must be plugged to ensure the acid does not get into the operating mechanisms. The lines must also be monitored regularly for leaks and
be proved with water prior to administering acid. This method can cause damage and and will cause disruption of services on board the
vessel. It is also important that the acid solution is not dropped to the tank too soon; otherwise blockages will occur (particularly
with PVC pipe work).
Closed loop recirculation
Certain lines/toilets are taken out of operation whilst the lines are being cleaned. The line is broken into via a flange or valve and a
return line connected to an acid recirculation bath and pump unit. The supply line is then connected to the vacuum central incoming flange
and the acid/water solution plumped round the pipe work in a "close loop" system. More effective than the above methods, a better cleaning
is ensured by removing air pockets. Again, all of the toilet discharges must be plugged to ensure that the acid does not get into the
operation mechanisms. The lines must also be monitored regularly for leaks and mst be proved with water prior to administering acid. This method
can cause damage and will cause disruption of services on board the vessel. |
