The Effectiveness of ACO’s Grease Separator Systems

ACO's range of grease separators includes a variety of gravity grease separators for
preventing the build-up of grease, oils and fats in wastewater from commercial kitchen and
food processing applications.

The principle is simple. Light substances (fats and oils) rise to the top of the grease separator
and heavy substances (grease and food waste) sink, as treated wastewater continues
through to the sewers via a drainage outlet pipe.

This article will show you that not only are ACO’s separator systems highly advanced,
they’re compliant to the requirements of the water industry, councils, building operators
and other stakeholders..

The Management of Fats, Oils and Grease

As one of the most detrimental problems found within food processing industry and
commercial buildings, the build-up of fats, oils and grease (also known simply as ‘FOG’)
presents a significant challenge. This causes pungent odour and reduces the efficiency of
pipes due to solidification. Ultimately, these problems lead to an increase in maintenance
which costs you both time and money over the life of a building.

Fortunately, animal and vegetable fats can be separated easily within a gravity grease
separator. The image below demonstrates how wastewater from food processing plants
enters the grease separator, and shows you how FOG substances rise and float to the
surface:

Additionally, grease separators can be used for more substantial installations where
necessary, in order to manage larger hydraulic demands. Turbulence can be reduced and
hydraulic flow and efficiency can be maintained by incorporating a flow distributor for
splitting flow into different traps.

Grease Trap Products

ACO offers two products which are equally as effective at separating FOG substances, but
designed specifically for different applications:

EcoJet – for above ground installations

Lipumax – for below ground installations

Material Properties of grease traps

Trap bodies can be manufactured from a choice of materials. These can have a significant
impact upon the trap’s durability, design and lifespan. Whilst not obvious to the purchaser
or specifier, some contain implicit weaknesses that can lead to early failure. Let’s take a look
at some of the most common materials used:

Cement Concrete

These bodies require thick walls to provide structural integrity; precast concrete traps
involve high installation costs as they are heavy and cumbersome. Cranes and other types of
lifting equipment will be required throughout the installation process. Cement concrete is
generally prone to deterioration and traps made from this material also require relining.
Glass Reinforced Concrete

Occasionally used in the manufacturing of grease traps, glass reinforced concrete contains a
mixture of elements including glass fibres, cement, chemical admixtures, water and fine
aggregate. Although GRC is lightweight, it is brittle, prone to cracking and deterioration and
as a result of this, does require relining and repair.

Rotomoulded Polyethylene

Polyethylene is the best option for use in the manufacturing of grease traps. Exhibiting
excellent long-term corrosion resistance, this material is lightweight and flexible, making it
an ideal option for installation, particularly in sensitive environments. Chemically resistant,
polyethylene doesn’t require lining and therefore is superior when in contact with
wastewater and strong cleaning agents

If you want to find out more about ACO’s grease traps, get in touch with us by calling on
1300 765 226.