What Does A Sump Pump Actually Do? A sump pump is a device that redirects water that collects in the basement of a home. It captures water that enters the basement, and pumps it away from the foundation to prevent flooding and damage. The pump is typically located in the lowest point of the basement […]
What Is A Membrane Bioreactor (MBR)? A Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) combines membrane filtration techniques such as microfiltration or ultrafiltration with a biological treatment method known as the activated sludge process. This technology is commonly used for treating both municipal and industrial wastewater. There are two main types of MBR systems: the submerged membrane bioreactor (SMBR) […]
What Is Greywater? Greywater is wastewater from the bathroom sink, shower, bathtub, and laundry that doesn’t contain human bodily waste. Greywater may be used for watering plants in or around your home. Greywater can be used to flush toilets and urinals if it is disinfected first with chlorine bleach or another disinfectant before being put […]
What Is An Activated Sludge? The activated sludge process is a method of treating sewage and industrial wastewaters using a combination of aeration and biological organisms. This process involves injecting air or oxygen into the waste water in an aeration tank, where microorganisms such as bacteria and protozoa consume and break down organic pollutants. The […]
What Is A Sedimentation Tank? Sedimentation tanks are large, rectangular tanks with sloping sides. They are used to treat raw water before it enters the distribution system. Water flows through the sedimentation tank and separates suspended solids and other unwanted materials (fines). Sedimentation tanks can also remove heavy metals and other pollutants from water that […]
What Is A Septic Drain Fields? Septic drain fields, also known as leach fields or leach drains, are underground facilities used to remove impurities and contaminants from the liquid that comes out of a septic tank after anaerobic digestion. This liquid contains organic materials that are broken down by a microbial ecosystem. A septic drain […]
What Is Liquid Wood? Liquid wood is a bioplastic composite made from lignin, cellulose, and plant fibers such as flax or hemp. It was developed by German company TECNARO in cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology. The material has properties similar to wood and can be processed like a thermoplastic polymer. It is […]
What Is A Buttressed Retaining Wall? A buttressed retaining wall is a type of retaining wall that uses triangular beams, known as buttresses, on the front side of the wall instead of on the backfill side. These buttresses are visible and add significant strength to the wall system. Unlike a counterfort wall, in order for […]
What Is A Door Header? A header is a structural component that is installed over an opening, such as a window or door, to distribute the weight placed on top of it to the sides. The header is supported by framing members called king and jack studs, which transfer the load to the foundation. Headers […]
What Are Winch Cables Used For? Winches pull objects, like boats and cars, using a cable, chain, or rope. Winches are most commonly found on the bumpers of off-road vehicles or trailers for loading boats or ATVs. Winches use a drum that pulls the cable in or lets it out. The cable can be attached […]