• by airquippipetool
• News
• . 14 Nov 2024

Choosing the Right Pipework Materials for Waste Oil and Coolant Reticulation in Heavy Vehicle Workshops

In a heavy vehicle workshop, managing large volumes of waste oil and coolant is a critical part of maintaining a clean and safe work environment. Waste fluids, such as engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, must be collected and disposed of in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner. To achieve this, many workshops rely on centralised waste fluid collection systems, which use a network of pipes to extract waste fluids from multiple service bays and transfer them to a central receptacle for removal by a licensed contractor.

At Airquip and Pipetool, we specialise in designing and installing waste fluid reticulation systems for heavy vehicle workshops. A properly designed system not only ensures that waste fluids are handled safely, but also optimises workshop efficiency and helps reduce the risk of contamination. In this post, we’ll explore how to select the right pipework materials for these systems and why choosing the best materials is so important.

Why Centralised Waste Fluid Systems Are Better Than Localised Collection

Before diving into the specifics of pipework materials, it’s worth discussing the advantages of a centralised waste fluid system versus a localised collection system (i.e., individual waste fluid containers at each service bay).

• Efficiency: A centralised system streamlines the collection process. Waste oil and coolant from multiple service bays are directed through one central network, meaning there’s no need for staff to manually empty waste containers at each bay, reducing downtime and improving overall workflow.
• Safety: With a central collection point, the risk of leaks or spills is minimised, as waste fluid is less likely to be mishandled or forgotten. A well-maintained system also reduces the chance of contaminants from reaching the shop floor.
• Cost-Effective: Centralised systems often reduce the number of contractors needed for waste fluid removal, as they only need to access one central receptacle rather than multiple service bays. This can also reduce the risk of overfilling individual waste containers, as everything is directed into one location.
• Environmental Benefits: By consolidating waste fluids in one receptacle, a centralised system can better ensure that hazardous waste is disposed of properly, preventing leaks and spills that could contaminate the environment.

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of a centralised system, let’s look at how to select the right pipework materials for the job.

Selecting the Right Materials for Waste Fluid Reticulation Systems

When designing a waste fluid reticulation system, it’s essential to choose the right materials that will ensure durability, reliability, and safety. The pipes must withstand the corrosive nature of oils, coolants, and other fluids commonly used in heavy vehicle maintenance. At Airquip and Pipetool, we focus on using materials that are robust, resistant to corrosion, and capable of handling the volumes and pressures involved in a workshop’s waste fluid system.

1. Stainless Steel: Durability and Corrosion Resistance

Stainless steel is our go-to material for waste fluid reticulation systems in heavy vehicle workshops. Here’s why:

• Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion from oils, coolants, and other chemicals commonly used in workshops. This makes it ideal for environments where fluids are constantly moving through the system.
• Strength: Stainless steel is strong and durable, able to withstand high pressures. It can also handle the wear and tear of daily use in busy workshops without cracking or leaking.
• Long Lifespan: Stainless steel systems tend to have a longer lifespan than other materials. This longevity reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements over time, offering great value for the investment.
• Hygienic and Safe: Stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain, which is crucial in a waste fluid system. Its smooth surface helps prevent blockages and buildup, keeping the system functioning efficiently.

2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): Cost-Effective and Resistant to Chemicals

HDPE is another excellent choice for waste fluid pipework, offering a balance of cost-effectiveness and chemical compatibility:

• Chemical Resistance: HDPE is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including oils, coolants, and other workshop fluids. This makes it a safe material for transporting waste fluids without the risk of degradation.
• Flexibility: HDPE pipes are flexible and can be easily installed in various configurations, making it an ideal choice for installations where flexibility and ease of maintenance are important.
• Lightweight and Durable: HDPE is much lighter than metals like stainless steel, making it easier to handle and install. It’s also durable enough to withstand the conditions found in busy workshops, including abrasion, mechanical stress, and impact from machinery.
• Cost-Effective: HDPE is typically more affordable than stainless steel, making it a great option for projects with budget constraints while still offering a high level of performance.

3. Aluminium: Lightweight and Resistant to Corrosion

Aluminium is another material we use in specific situations for waste fluid systems, particularly when a lightweight option is required.

• Corrosion Resistance: Like stainless steel, aluminium has a high resistance to corrosion, especially when exposed to oils and coolants. This is important for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the pipework system.
• Lightweight: Aluminium pipes are significantly lighter than stainless steel, making them easier to install, especially in complex or hard-to-reach areas within a workshop.
• Good Strength: Aluminium offers a good balance of strength and weight, making it suitable for systems where both factors are critical.
• Attractive aesthetics: Aluminium pipework systems are installed perfectly straight, require less supports, and look great in any workshop or facility.

Materials We Do Not Use

While there are many materials that might seem suitable for waste fluid systems, we avoid using certain materials due to issues like corrosion, brittleness, or chemical incompatibility with workshop fluids. These include:

• Copper: Copper is generally chemically compatible with oils and coolants, but the mechanical properties and long-term durability under heavy-duty conditions in workshops make it less ideal for waste fluid reticulation systems. Due to the traditionally high price of the copper material, copper pipework is also seen as a theft risk.
• Polypropylene (PP): While PP has some resistance to chemicals, it lacks the durability needed for high-pressure and high-volume waste fluid systems. It is also more prone to cracking or breaking under stress.
• PVC: PVC is brittle and can crack or break under the mechanical stresses of a busy workshop. Additionally, it is not as resistant to certain chemicals found in oils and coolants, leading to potential leaks or system degradation.

Conclusion: Why the Right Materials Matter

At Airquip and Pipetool, we understand that the materials used in a waste fluid reticulation system play a critical role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of the system. By choosing materials like stainless steel, HDPE, and aluminium, we ensure that your workshop’s waste fluid collection system will stand up to the demanding conditions of a heavy vehicle workshop.

A centralised waste fluid system provides numerous benefits, including increased safety, improved efficiency, and environmental protection. By installing a robust, well-designed pipework system with the right materials, you can streamline operations, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure that waste fluids are disposed of safely and efficiently. If you’re looking to install or upgrade a waste fluid reticulation system in your heavy vehicle workshop, Airquip and Pipetool can help. Our expertise and commitment to quality mean that we deliver reliable, cost-effective systems tailored to your needs