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Smart City,Sustainability
Step-by-step guide to Automated Waste Collection System
Envac’s pneumatic waste collection system simplifies everyday waste management in urban environments. By using underground pipelines, the system discreetly handles waste, helping to create cleaner, healthier, and more liveable cities while reducing the environmental impact.
Introduction to Pneumatic Waste Collection System (PWCS)
The world is experiencing rapid urbanisation, and efficient environmental urban planning has become crucial. At Envac, we have pioneered an innovative approach to waste collection that makes the process smoother and reduces the environmental footprint. The system also called the Automatic Waste Collection System (AWCS), highlights its cutting-edge automated functionality. Envac has implemented this system in various cities worldwide, including Stockholm, Singapore, Seoul, and Dubai, where the impact on reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion has been significant.
Here is a guide to help you better understand how this system works. The Envac Pneumatic Waste Collection System is a groundbreaking solution that is leading the way in modern, sustainable urban development. This advanced pneumatic system resembles a clean, modern assembly line, where each process phase is meticulously crafted to ensure maximum efficiency with minimal ecological impact.
What is Pneumatic Waste Collection?
Pneumatic waste collection is a state-of-the-art system in which waste is transported through a network of underground pipes using air pressure. This advanced technology eliminates the need for traditional waste collection trucks, thereby reducing carbon emissions and alleviating traffic congestion. The system was first introduced in Sweden in 1961, and since then, it has evolved to handle waste volumes with remarkable efficiency. For instance, these systems can handle up to 300 kg of waste per hour per inlet. The system transports waste at speeds of up to 70 kilometres per hour through underground pipes, ensuring that large volumes of waste are handled quickly and efficiently. Additionally, collection stations can be located up to kilometres away from central urban areas, reducing the logistical burden on city centres.
By transporting waste through pipes using air pressure, the system eliminates the need for manual waste handling or heavy vehicles. Consequently, the demand for space in dense urban areas and the logistical challenges typically associated with waste transport are minimised. This also provides a cleaner, more hygienic, and efficient method of waste management.
How Does It Work?
- Technology Overview
The pneumatic waste collection system uses a vacuum-based technology to transport waste through a network of underground pipes. The system creates negative pressure by pumping air into the pipes, which pulls waste directly into a central collection point. This method ensures that waste is transported rapidly and efficiently without the need for heavy vehicles, significantly reducing traffic congestion in dense urban areas. Additionally, by confining waste within the pipes, the system minimises the spread of odours and the risk of pollution. Sensors integrated into the system monitor the flow of waste in real time, optimising the collection process and ensuring energy efficiency. Waste is automatically sorted and prepared for further processing at the central terminal.
Step-by-Step Process
- Step 1: Waste Disposal
The waste collection process starts at the household or inlet, which is specifically designed for easy access. These inlets are engineered to ensure users can efficiently deposit general waste, recyclables, and organic waste. The system facilitates the pre-sorting of waste at the source, minimising the handling required later. Once the waste is deposited, it is prepared for collection and treatment. The closed design of the system and the rapid transport of waste prevent the accumulation of odours and minimise exposure to waste, ensuring safer and more hygienic urban environments.
- Step 2: Automation and Pneumatic Transport
Once the wastes are passed through the inlets, they are transported via a connected network of underground pipes at high speed using air pressure. This system directs the waste to a central terminal, where further sorting and processing take place. At this stage, the need for manual waste handling is significantly reduced, which minimises the risk of contamination and enhances overall hygiene. Moreover, the system ensures both operational efficiency and hygiene, providing a safer and more environmentally sustainable solution for waste management. It operates automatically 24/7, reducing labour costs and human intervention.
- Step 3: The Terminal
At the central collection terminal, waste is automatically sorted into designated containers, streamlining both management and processing. Recyclable materials are separated and prepared for further treatment, while general waste is typically sent for incineration or to landfills. This terminal is engineered to efficiently handle large volumes of waste, ensuring continuous and uninterrupted system operation. The automated sorting process improves efficiency and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable waste management solution. A collection station can be located up to 2 kilometres from the central urban area, reducing waste management’s environmental and logistical impact on city centres.
- Step 4: Final Processing
The sorted waste fractions are processed further in the final stage of pneumatic waste collection. Recyclables are sent to recycling plants, while residual waste (general waste) is often incinerated to produce biofuel or energy. This stage focuses on transforming waste into resources and reducing landfill dependency. The Envac system ensures that waste is processed with minimal environmental impact, supporting the circular economy by optimising the use of waste materials. The real-time data gathered from sensors optimises the collection process, reducing energy consumption and ensuring that waste flow is efficiently managed based on demand.
Benefits of pneumatic waste collection
Improve Efficiency
– Reduced collection trips
– Handles up to 300 kg of waste per hour per inlet
– Operates 24/7, reducing manual labour and operational costs
Improved Hygiene and Safety
– Waste is contained in underground pipes
– Reduced exposure to pathogens and odours
– 30% reduction in vermin infestations
Smart Automation
Sensors monitor waste flow in real time, optimizing energy usage and improving operational efficiency
Environmental Impact
– Upto 90% reduction in CO2 emissions
– 60% reduction in heavy vehicle traffic
Space Saving
Reduces the need for large waste bins and collection points, freeing up valuable urban space
Continuous Operation
Runs without human intervention, reducing labour costs and minimising disruptions
A Step Towards Sustainable Cities
Pneumatic or automated waste collection is the most innovative solution for reducing urban waste. With growing urban populations and increasing environmental concerns, innovative waste management solutions like Envac’s system are crucial for building smart, sustainable cities. Discover how your city can benefit from this system – contact us today to learn more!
Furthermore, explore the European Commission’s sustainable urban waste management guidelines here.