Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs) About Envac’s Automatic Waste Collection Systems (AWCS)
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General questions
What is the Envac Automatic Waste Collection System (AWCS)?
Envac’s AWCS is an advanced, automated solution that uses a network of underground pipes to transport waste via vacuum technology to a central collection terminal. It is designed to streamline waste management, improve urban cleanliness, and reduce environmental impact
What types of users typically use Envac's system?
Envac systems are used by various users, including residential areas, mixed-use developments, municipalities, commercial establishments, hospitals, airports, and public space
How is Envac AWCS different from traditional waste collection?
Unlike traditional systems, Envac eliminates the need for manual waste collection and transport. It reduces vehicle emissions, improves hygiene, and optimises urban space.
What types of waste can Envac handle
Envac systems can manage household, recyclable, organic, and commercial waste. Based on the needs, some systems also handle specialised waste streams, such as soiled linen, infectious waste and other medical waste in the healthcare segment.
What waste types are not suitable for the Envac system?
Bulky items (e.g., furniture), car batteries, electronics, hazardous chemicals, garden waste, and large quantities of liquid waste cannot be processed and require separate collection methods. Please contact your building association or municipality to learn more about your local waste management rules.
Operational questions
How does the Envac waste collection process waste?
Users deposit waste into designated inlets. The system transports the waste through underground pipes to a central terminal using vacuum technology, where it is compacted and stored for collection.
What happens if the system experiences a blockage?
Most blockages are resolved remotely by increasing air pressure. If manual intervention is needed, trained technicians can address the issue promptly.
How does a power failure affect the system?
Terminals equipped with backup generators or dual power connections ensure uninterrupted operation during power outages.
Can the Envac system be retrofitted in existing buildings?
The system can be installed in existing developments, often by integrating with existing waste chutes or using outdoor inlets.
What is the recommended pipe depth for installation?
Pipes are typically buried 1–2.5 meters below ground, depending on the specific site requirements.
Can pipes be installed in challenging environments (e.g., underwater or earthquake zones)?
Yes, pipes can be installed underwater, below the water table, or in earthquake-prone areas with necessary reinforcements and precautions.
Can the Envac system work in extreme weather conditions?
Envac systems are designed to operate reliably in various weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, and wet environments. The system’s components are built to withstand these conditions without performance degradation.
How much energy does the Envac system use?
The energy consumption of an Envac system varies depending on its size, capacity, and operational frequency. The energy usage is typically low, and the system is optimised for efficiency. It often consumes significantly less energy than traditional waste collection trucks operating in the same service area
Sustainability, user and community impact questions
How does Envac contribute to sustainability?
The system reduces greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating waste collection trucks, minimises urban noise, and ensures efficient waste segregation and recycling.
What are the economic benefits of Envac AWCS?
Although the initial investment is higher, long-term savings from reduced operational costs, enhanced property value, and improved urban space utilisation make the system cost-effective.
How much waste can the system handle?
Depending on the setup, an Envac system can manage up to 20 tonnes of waste per day with suction distances of up to 2 kilometres.
How does Envac benefit communities?
The system enhances urban cleanliness, reduces odours and pests, decreases waste truck traffic, and provides residents with a more convenient waste disposal process.
What measures are in place to ensure safety?
Inlet openings are designed to prevent children from entering. Additionally, the system is equipped with fire safety measures and complies with international safety standards. Most of the time, the system requires RFID to open, further ensuring that intruders are kept away
How many households can one inlet serve?
Depending on waste volume, each inlet typically serves 40–80 households.
How does Envac support recycling?
The system can handle multiple waste fractions through separate inlets or chutes, ensuring effective waste segregation. Envac also integrates well with optical sorting facilities.
What recycling rates can Envac achieve?
With proper design and community engagement, recycling rates of up to 90% participation and 95% purity can be achieved.
Can Envac accommodate Pay-As-You-Throw (PAYT) models?
Yes, Envac offers solutions for PAYT, allowing waste disposal to be tracked and charged based on usage.
Operational & Maintenance questions
What is the expected lifespan of an Envac system?
With regular maintenance, Envac systems can operate effectively for several decades.
Is regular cleaning of the pipes necessary?
Typically, no. The system is designed to be self-cleaning under normal operations. However, occasional cleaning may be required for sticky or wet waste.
Who operates and maintains the system?
Envac offers long-term service agreements, ensuring the system is maintained by trained professionals.
What is Envac's vision for the future of waste management?
Envac aims to create smarter, more sustainable cities by integrating IoT, AI-based waste analytics, and renewable energy solutions into waste management systems
What examples showcase successful Envac implementations?
With over 7 million daily users, Envac systems have been successfully implemented in cities like Barcelona, Paris, Stockholm, Seoul and London, as well as in airports, hospitals, and high-rise residential areas globally.