After reading this material, every doubter in the choice of the owner of a country house will easily make a choice of Topas or Astra - Astra or Tapas! The ancestor of these installations is one - the Czech wastewater treatment plant Topolvater. The cleaning principles in Astre or Topas are the same. The principle of tapping of purified water in Topas or Astre is the same.
The main "global" differences of these installations from each other are the following:
- In Topas there are two compressors, which turn on in turn, depending on the required operating mode at the moment. Switching is due to the float switch. And in Astra there is one constantly working compressor, and only the direction of air supply is switched by means of a solenoid valve, depending on the mode required at the moment. Some say that the alternate activation of compressors is worse than one constantly working compressor, others - on the contrary, that one is worse than two ... There is no final opinion on this score. Everyone praises his installation. And the fact that all the compressors are inside the unit, in a humid environment, with a high probability of flooding the compressor compartment in case of plant failures - nobody speaks. The station of complete biological treatment of Tver has one constantly working compressor, there are no electromagnetic valves, and the compressor does not stand in a damp environment, so it can not fail if the cleaning station is faulty. More information about the advantages of installing Tver can be read, or you can buy a Tver installation.
- Also, when comparing Astra or Topas - Topas or Astra, compare the next parameter - this is the thickness of the case. It is said that a difference of several millimeters somehow affects the freezing of the station. At the same time, all manufacturers claim that it is necessary to insulate the case for the winter in severe frosts. Imagine a situation that you need to insulate your own house: you choose a heater made of plastic, with a thickness of 15mm or 18mm? The answer is obvious! With such a thickness of the walls of plastic - the difference in efficiency is negligible. And if there is a need for insulation, it is necessary to insulate the housing in addition, for example, extruded polystyrene foam.
- There are a few minor differences between Astra and Topas, which do not affect the operability of stations. Both stations Topas and Astra are doing their job well. Both stations are operational. At the same time, it is necessary to take into account that the stations are very sensitive to the quality of the drains - since the pumping of drains goes along the airlift, the filter in the primary chamber can be clogged with large inclusions in the drains, therefore there should not be food residues in the drains (according to the instruction). Also, according to the maintenance schedule, every 3-6 months, it is necessary to clean the stations not only of excess sludge, but also to clean all the pipes - airlifts, disconnecting and pulling the entire air-lift system out of the station to the outside. All parts must be spread out next to the station on the lawn, and rinsed with a mini-wash, sprinkling everything around your area. Then you need to collect everything back, do not mix anything, otherwise it will not work ... At the same time, it is not sensitive to the quality of drains - even though tomatoes and apples drop into the sewer system - nothing will get clogged! The sludge is pumped out only once every 1.5 years, but nothing is required to remove it for flushing.
When organizing autonomous sewer systems, many owners often face the problem of choosing a septic tank. The main difficulty lies in the fact that septic tanks can have the same or sufficiently close technical parameters, but at the same time they have small, but significant differences. This situation is especially important when the choice is made between septic tanks of Topas or Unilos, which have almost identical bodies and a method of sewage treatment.
dimensions of Septic type Unilos Methods of oxygenation of anaerobic bacteria
Both septic tanks are based on the principle of deep biological treatment impurities and allow to obtain a purification degree of more than 98%. However, in doing so, they have quite serious design differences. One powerful compressor is installed in Unilos, which is designed to pump air into the second chamber with anaerobic bacteria to maintain their vital functions. It is in a constantly on-state condition, so that at any time, with large volumes of immediate discharges, it is possible to effectively disinfect the drains.
This factor has a significant impact on the life of the pump, which, with quality assembly and reliable components, will be able to work continuously for three years. The first to break down the membrane, and then the mechanical parts. Also consumes a lot of electricity, in comparison with Topas, where two smaller compressors are installed, turned on alternately. The advantage of Unilos is more effective air supply of bacteria especially in winter, when it is required to maintain a positive temperature. In addition, the risk of starting currents is reduced.
discharge of treated effluent Topas allows you to save a little energy, and also extend the life of compressors. However, due to the constant switching of compressors, membranes can wear out much more quickly, since they take significant loads at the moment of switching on. Most cheap models of septic tanks are not protected from starting currents. But in any case, the implementation of the operation of the two compressors substantially complicates the septic control system in terms of electronic circuits and electrical wiring. Possible power outages also have a negative effect on the operation of these devices. Even if you compare the same performance septic tank, replacing the two compressors will always be more expensive than one powerful one. Therefore, we can draw an intermediate conclusion: the system of oxygen enrichment of bacteria in the septic of Unilos is more reliable, but less durable, and in Topas - economical.
The dimensions of the compressor unit in Unilos are much smaller than in Topas, which greatly facilitates their maintenance due to the larger space of the cameras. Also, this factor affects the technical parameter, such as the amount of instantaneous discharge of sewage, which is greater in Unilos than in Topas.
Differences in septic tanks
In form, both septic tanks are the same and represent a parallelepiped, which is elongated in height. However, the material of manufacture in the case of Topas is foamed polypropylene, unlike Unilos, where conventional dense polypropylene is used. They are both equipped with special ribs of rigidity in order to ensure greater structural reliability. However, the foam polypropylene has a considerable porosity, which makes it lighter and more plastic. Under operating conditions, this means that, with minor soil movements, the Topas body may be slightly deformed, but it will remain sealed, while in Unilos, with certain deformations, a crack may form and leakage of sewage into the ground will occur. To prevent this situation, manufacturers significantly strengthen the enclosure with the help of internal rigid partitions, due to which it becomes possible to mount in floaters or clay.
principle of operation septic tank If the dimensions are critical, then you should choose Unilos, because in it the thickness of the walls with the same strength will be less. When comparing the possibilities of installing two septic tanks, there are no significant differences, since the requirements for the density of soil are practically the same.
The lid of Unilos is usually made slightly higher than Topas because of the greater neck height, about 10-20 cm, depending on the model. This feature of the design allows you to slightly deepen the septic tank into the ground or make a large embankment, thereby achieving the storage of heat inside the chamber with bacteria, even without the need to insulate the top layer. When using Topas, it is advisable to consider the method of thermal insulation of the septic tank.
Inserting an electrical cable to power the pump and compressor in septic of Junilos completely sealed. This prevents the liquid from getting into the ground inside the structure in order to increase the protection against short circuits. In Topas, self-input cable is implemented, which will require self-sealing. On the one hand, this is an advantage, as it will be possible to lay any cable that is suitable for the parameters, and on the other hand, if there are no proper installation skills, the risk of electric shock or instability of the septic tank will increase substantially.
Internal design features of septic tanks
In Yunilos, to ensure an effective overflow of activated sludge from the sedimentation tank, a pyramidal structure is realized in the aeration tank. Despite its compact size, it copes with the task at hand with sufficient performance due to the installed purge in one of the corners of the camera. In Topas, an enlarged pyramid is applied, which significantly worsens the efficiency of the septic tank due to its relatively frequent clogging with active silt, which can fall into the purified water. Purge is carried out in the middle of the pyramid, which causes residues of fats and suspended particles that have not undergone processing.
discharge of treated effluents into the ground In order to prevent the mixing of the new sludge with the already worked out in Unilos, the construction of the soothing is realized. In Topas, such protection is not provided, so there is a partial ingress of spent sludge into the receiving chamber, which makes the cleaning process very difficult and longer. The presence of the aerator is not in the center of the chamber, but in the corner leads to an additional accumulation of silt under the pyramid and a worsening of its circulation. In Unilos, there is no such problem at the expense of the location of the aeration element immediately below the pyramid. That is, active bacteria are much more efficiently enriched with oxygen and the processing of sewage is faster.
Sometimes in Topas models, there are fastenings of aeration elements on metal clamps, which in rusty environment with high humidity can rust and cause unstable septic work. In Unilos, there are no such problems.
Maintenance of the septic tank Unilos The circulation pump in Unilos, as well as the compressor, operates in a constantly on mode, due to which the amount of nitrogen and phosphorus in the chambers is minimal, and the quality of wastewater treatment is slightly better than in Topas. However, due to continuous pumping, even in the absence of draining, it more often fails and consumes more electricity. In Topas, many harmful impurities remain due to the fact that the pump is switched on only during the arrival of drains and works exclusively in the direct mode of pumping.
If a selection of Tapas or Unilos, which is better in terms of operation, and what is more reliable, then the choice is almost unambiguous in favor of Unilos. Even though it consumes more electricity and is very demanding for maintenance, it provides a high degree of purification and is able to absorb significant amounts of instantaneous discharges of sewage without entering purified water. If we compare in size, then Unilos is also in the first place due to better realization of the distribution of useful volume and compactness of the arrangement of nodes and mechanisms.
Having stopped the choice at stations of deep biological clearing, it is necessary to be defined at what manufacturer to get the equipment. Obviously, the principle of operation of various systems with active silt is the same, but there are constructive features, the knowledge of which can help to make the right choice. These features and is designed to consider this note. Consider station brands " Tapas "And" Unilos Astra "A steadfast gaze of the engineer-designer.
The first thing that catches your eye when you open the top cover is a large compressor compartment, which interferes with the full service of the station (it is impossible to extract the sludge from the submersible pump, which is necessary in the event of a malfunction of the air supply system).
Fig. 1. Station of deep biological cleaning "Topas" top view
Fig. 2. Unilos Astra deep biological treatment station top view
The large compressor compartment of Topas is due to the fact that it installs two compressors against one in Astra. In the case of Topas, this is a negative factor due to the greatest load on the device at the moment of switching on, because compressors work alternately. In the case of Astra, the switching of the phases of operation is due to the solenoid valve. By the way, this factor makes it possible to make the main pump constantly working, which makes it possible to increase the volley discharge of drains while maintaining the septic tank size.
The next difference is the presence on the control unit of the phase switch in the Astra (Fig.2) and its absence in Topas (Fig. 1). The switch simplifies the service of the station.
One of the main features of Astra is the thickness and quality of the plastic - the material of the hull. This allows you to withstand sufficient loads and reduce heat transfer. The increase in the thickness of the walls is due to the fact that the Astra (Aeration Station is a topaz of Russian adaptation) adapted for Russia with our harsh winters.
I would like to note one more constructive feature.
Fig. 3. Topas's Volossobar
Fig. 4. The Astra's Volossobar
Compare the Topas hair follicles (Fig.3) and Astra (Fig.4). As you can see from the drawings Astra again ahead of Topas.
So, when you are going to buy the sewage system "Topas", carefully refer to the brand and the manufacturer.
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How everything works
| How is sewerage installed? | All schemes of tapping of purified water | |||
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Detailed description of stage-by-stage works on installation of modern sewerage for a country house. |
Find out how the sewage delivery to the site takes place, as well as the delivery hours, prices and conditions. |
For any type of soil and the relief of the site, there is a ready-made water discharge scheme. Find out which option is right for you. |
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| Proper installation of sewage pipes | ||||
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How to avoid the growth and flooding of the pit during the installation of sewerage in high groundwater. |
What equipment is installed in the sewer system if there are high groundwater in the area. |
How is the installation of sewer pipes for the supply and discharge pipelines. |
| Sewer at the gas station | Supplier in public procurement |
The products are certified |
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SlavAqua ensures the working capacity of toilets at the gas stations of Gazprom Neft. |
We are a reliable supplier of sewerage for the performance of government and commercial orders. |
The quality of the sewage system of Unilos is confirmed by certificates of compliance and sanitary certificates. |
Comments:
Russian stations under the names of Unilos and Topas are by far the most high-quality and well-known water purification systems. They can remarkably clean the wastewater at a deep biological level, which is almost impossible to achieve with other systems.
Most people are wondering which of the brands is best to choose - Topas or Unilos?
Experts say that it is impossible to give an unambiguous answer. This is due to the fact that both Unilos and Topas are practically on the same level, and the cost of water purification is the same for them. These brands have only a few insignificant differences, which experts recommend to navigate when choosing.
To give full characteristics of the above-described brands of equipment for wastewater treatment, you need to give each of them a more detailed description, highlighting all the available subtleties, advantages, disadvantages, as well as the main distinctive features.
Unilos System
So, the Unilos water purification system has such basic features:
- long service life. Such equipment will serve you for about 50 years without significant breakdowns. That's why the manufacturer gives a great guarantee;
- very low level of vibrations and noise due to the use of a high-quality single compressor within the station;
- simplicity and economy in use. Due to the minimal use of a large number of small parts, it is quite easy to use the system. It is necessary to connect the system to the voltage regulator, then the electricity costs are significantly reduced;
- the system has thick enough wall panels, and in each of them there is a layer of a safe insulation;
- specially mounted pump always allows to completely remove phosphorus and nitrogen from water, and this allows the installation to work in a more reliable mode;
- the highest degree of sealing. All electrical cables and other parts are very well protected from moisture, virtually eliminating the possibility of an electric shortage or wetting.
Model of Tapas
In turn, the station Topas has such subtleties:
- it serves almost without breakages up to 50 years;
- in the installation there is not one but two compressors. On the one hand, this increases power. But on the other hand, it leads to faster wear and the need for replacement;
- the wall panels in this installation are twice thinner than in the previous system. They are made not from polypropylene, as in the Unilos system, but from fine granules. This makes them a little cheaper, but at the same time requires additional warming;
- a special compartment for the location of the compressors is quite large, that's why the whole installation is characterized by large dimensions and, accordingly, less convenience in operation;
- the advantage is that the blocks are not completely corroded. Due to this, the possibility of rust on the internal mechanisms of the system is practically excluded;
- the special pump does not work constantly. This somewhat reduces the quality of the water to be purified due to incomplete removal of phosphorus and nitrogenous sediments from the water;
- the horizontal plane with a slight slope of the settler does not allow the silt to remain in the water, which ensures a high degree of water purification from the sediment;
- the system has many different modifications. Undoubtedly, this is a big plus, since you can easily select the right installation for your site by the type of soil and other environmental conditions;
- the degree of sealing is not as high as in the Unilos system. This indicates that if you do not take additional protective measures, moisture or purified water can reach the cable, thereby provoking a short circuit.
So, both brands deserve a high level of demand in the modern market of septic tanks for water. However, it can be clearly seen from the above that the Unilos cleaning system is somewhat better than the Topas. Simultaneously, the Topas system is cheaper. Sufficiently practical under certain conditions are both systems.
To ensure the smooth operation of utilities in a private home, experts recommend that modern sewerage systems be equipped with ultramodern systems with a full cycle of wastewater treatment. Which cleaning station is best to choose for your site: an inexpensive "Astra" or a more perfect "Topas"? The advantages and disadvantages of both septic tanks will be discussed in this article.
When processing the information, users' reviews are used that exploit this equipment in their dacha and cottage areas.
The work of Chinese purification systems "Topas" and Czech development "Unilos Astra" is based on the accelerated bacteriological decomposition of organic matter in an environment with a high oxygen content.
The air supplied under pressure enters the aerators that saturate the activated sludge with oxygen. This creates optimal conditions for vital activity for processing aerobic bacteria.
At the next stage, the treated effluents are maintained in sedimentation tanks for separating the silt microparticles. The difference in air pressure is used for the operation of jet pumps, so-called airlifts, designed to lift the waste liquid to a small height in order to move them to another chamber. Built-in float sensors can automate the change of operating modes.
- The quality of wastewater treatment by stations "Topas" and their similar counterparts is at the level of 96-98%. Consequently, there are practically no problems with discharging treated effluents into natural reservoirs or in the folds of the relief.
- There is a complete absence of unpleasant odors, technological noises, the possibility of operating systems in the winter.
- The treated wastewater in the status of industrial water can be used for watering lawn grass and other household needs.
- The sludge is a high-grade fertilizer that can be used as a component of complex fertilizing of plants.
Both stations do not have significant limitations in installation by soil type, they are characterized by excellent corrosion resistance, economical energy consumption, they do not require complicated maintenance.
Of the disadvantages, mention should be made of the output of the systems to the operating mode 14 days after the introduction of strains of processing bacteria. The working capacity of active sludge is significantly reduced with increased content of chlorine and other caustic and disinfecting materials in the effluent.
Structural and operational differences
Installation of sewage treatment plants: Unilos Astra - left, Topas - right
Sources of compressed air
"Topas" operates from two compressors of Taiwanese production, which are switched on alternately when the operating modes of the station change.
- Two similar devices occupy a significant part of the internal volume.
- The location makes it difficult to access maintenance and ongoing repairs.
- Frequent switching adversely affects the life of the membranes.
Septic tanks "Astra" are equipped with reliable and durable electrical equipment from Japanese manufacturers. The work of a single compressor is controlled by an electronic unit.
The constant inflow of fresh air significantly increases the intensity of processing of effluents. A small-sized compressor unit does not create problems in maintenance.
Control
Unfortunately, Japanese automatics are sensitive to voltage drops. The drawback is manifested by frequent failures of the solenoid valve. The problem is solved by connecting the equipment "Unilos" through a fairly powerful stabilizer.
The control unit of the station "Topas" only works on switching on and off. Automation "Astra" is more perfect, as it is possible to change the modes manually.
Varieties of models
Both stations are produced in several modifications, which differ in performance and size. The choice of "Unilos" products is wider. The most compact model will be the best solution for a small family of three.
The differences of models of this brand are in different height of the neck. For basic modifications, the depth of connection of the underwater pipe is 60-120 cm. For stations with integrated CNS, this figure increases to 2.5 m.
Both models of the Topas stations are less perfect in this respect, since in the standard version the pipe can be connected at a depth of 85 cm, and for modification with a long neck this index increases only to 1 m 45 cm. There are no systems with a built-in sewage pumping station in the proposed assortment.
Body features
Corrosion resistant polypropylene body of the station "Topas" is highly resistant to deformation loads due to special stiffeners. Polymer without consequences carries large temperature differences, and also does not lose its operational properties for 50 years.
Designers of "Unilos" septic tanks preferred foam, which advantageously differs from homogeneous polymer by more efficient heat preservation. Increased strength is guaranteed by an increase in the thickness of the walls up to 24 mm, the presence of double stiffeners.
Volume of salvo discharge
When choosing a model of a wastewater treatment plant, this parameter should be considered among the first. A large volume of effluents discharged into the sewage system can initiate an overflow of the internal volume and a decrease in the quality of the cleaning in the shortest possible time.
If you prefer a certain model of a septic tank "Astra" or a similar type of "Topas", consider their performance first and only then select the volume of the receiving chamber.
Dependence of the volume of the receiving chamber on septic productivity
For example, in "Topas", serving a family of 5 people, the allowable discharge is 220 liters. For Unilos's identical equipment, this figure is 250 liters.
For the reception chamber of the "Topas" system, serving 8 people, its volume has been increased to 440 liters. While the "Astra" with identical capacity can boast a capacity of only 350 liters.
Information for reflection
From the above, it is easy to draw a conclusion about the undoubted advantages of European developments. For our operating conditions, all models of the trade mark "Unilos Astra" are better adapted.
Positive moments are a single compressor design, reliable electrical equipment, a wider range of models of different performance.
Buyers are satisfied with the optimal combination of value and quality. The price range of "Unilos" products is lower than the cost of identical "Topas" stations.