Traps & Interceptors

What is the difference?

The terms “grease trap” and “interceptor” are often used interchangeably .Traps are the most commonly used name.  Smaller sizes are defined as hydromechanical grease interceptors (often placed above grade) and are rated in gallons per minute (GPM) of actual flow rate through the device. Testing for these is by CSA B481, PDI G101 or ASME A112.14.3 and highest flow rate covered is 100 gpm.  The  larger types of interceptors are nearly always set in ground, are  gravity type interceptors rated in volume of liquid stored and designed to hold for extended periods. They can be identified by manhole covers, which provide access for regular pumping and cleaning.

grease-trap

Grease Traps…Generally unchanged for decades

In the late 1800’s Nathanial Whiting designed and received a patent for the passive gravity separator, the device known today as a grease trap. The common grease trap remains relatively unchanged today as a means of separating fats, oils and greases from wastewater. is a problem in almost every locale in the country

Hydromechanical Grease traps are usually located near the sink. They slow the flow of grease on a baffle and “capture it” as floating material. Most of the heavier material…but not all…will sink to the bottom. As the “trapped” FOG and sludges build up the efficiency drops as the volume available for separation reduces and the trap has to be manually emptied out (pumped) to restore its efficiency for a short while.

The gravity type interceptors are much bigger and can store the FOG and sludges for a longer period between pump outs.