PLUMBING & DRAINAGE
OUT WITH THE OLD Traditional traps can be inflexible in design, taking up a lot of space, dictating the final design of a room.
T
he shape and style of conventional water traps has remained largely unchanged since their inception in the late 18th century. Traditionally, they are “U-shaped” thanks to a distinct bend in the pipework which simultaneously catches water, whilst creating a seal between the sewer and the space above the pipe. Steve Skeldon, product manager at Wavin, explains: “The choice of water trap generally depends on the planned application. For example, shallow traps are usually best for installing beneath baths or shower trays. On the other hand, an ‘S’ or ‘P’ trap – or any other that bends to create a water seal - are the optimum choice for use beneath kitchen sinks. “Thanks to evaporation, leaks, or movement, water traps can often lose their seal over time which can often lead to further headaches down the line for plumbers and installers. All this has paved the way for manufacturers to create innovative seals without water. Waterless traps are now recognised as a key alternative to the water traps of the past. Rather than relying on water to create a preventive seal to stop gases escaping into rooms, these types utilise a self-sealing mechanical flap.” Waterless traps like Wavin’s HepvO feature an elastomeric membrane which creates a seal between occupied spaces and sewers below ground.
CISTERMISER ENCOURAGES DIRECT FLUSH TECHNOLOGIES
A
s the urgency to conserve water intensifies, Cistermiser is pushing the idea of direct flushing technologies, which help to deliver water conservation strategies in these high-demand environments.
“The need for water conservation has never been more critical. Forecasts indicate that within the next 25 years, we could see a 10 to 15% drop in water availability and additional population demand will intensify the strain,” says Richard Braid, managing director.
“Commercial and large residential buildings are under increasing scrutiny to implement practices that reduce water use. Direct flushing does this and with easy to install solutions, installers are in a prime position to help building managers achieve their sustainability goals.”
Easyflush Direct, for instance, is an infrared flushing system for WCs that takes its water feed from the mains supply. This means there is no cistern to be refilled and a second flush can be immediately activated. To achieve an effective flush, a water system must deliver 90 litres per minute (lpm): too low and the flush will be ineffective, leading to multiple flushes and so wasting water; too high and splashing will occur which is unhygienic. The Easyflush Direct has a flow regulator that limits the flow rate to 100lpm, with additional regulators for 90lpm and 125lpm included so each flush delivers the exact amount of water it requires. A hygiene flush is activated every 12 hours to ensure maximum hygiene standards are maintained. Cistermiser’s direct flush systems are designed with installers in mind with a straightforward setup process allowing for quick and hassle- free installation, which is particularly advantageous during large-scale refurbishments or new builds. Their durability and low maintenance requirements mean they are a practical choice for busy commercial environments. BMJ
June 2024
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net ULMA qp BMJ
Apr24.indd 1
This works by opening as water enters the pipe, in turn closing
once the flow stops. The lightweight design ensures that only a limited amount of water is needed to open it.
This means that there is no longer a need for a U-bend, allowing the trap to be installed both horizontally and vertically without impacting its performance. Additionally, due to the absence of water, these traps aren’t impacted by siphonage and, as such, will not allow for the escape of foul air from often pungent drains or sewers. There are further benefits of systems that don’t require water to operate. Waterless traps are generally much more versatile, as their shape isn’t solely designed for use in one application. For example, the HepvO trap can be installed in showers and baths as well as kitchen sinks, saving time when sourcing the appropriate product. Skeldon adds: “While there’s definitely a case to be made for ‘sticking with what you know’ in some instances, when it comes to water traps, it’s clear that more modern innovations have the upper hand. When considering installation benefits, and ultimately delivering value for customers, waterless traps are the obvious choice.” BMJ
BUILDER’S CHOISE for DRAINAGE NEEDS
+Solutions from A15 to F900 +Speedy delivery 24/48h +Affordable pricing
Warehouse
Unit 20B Access 18, Avonmouth BS11 BS11 8HT | Bristol +44 01 179826162
2/4/24 11:22 31
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78
