A hydromechanical grease interceptor (HGI) without a flow control device (FCD), is just a greasy, overpriced plastic bin. But throw an FCD into the mix, and for the first time in history, we are seeing separation efficiencies exceeding 95%. They’ve been called grease gatekeepers, regulators, and the heart of HGIs. But what makes them tick?
Something in the air
The purposeful inclusion of oxygen in modern interceptors is what makes them so much more environmentally efficient than their predecessors. We know air and grease really like to bond together, but once inside, air rapidly separates from the water, and expedites the entire process. Since flow control devices are what allow and regulate the air in a hydromechanical interceptor, they are the conductor of this beautiful, salt laden symphony.
Slow your roll
If grease was allowed to flow freely into the interceptor, baffles would become overwhelmed, separation efficiency would plummet and we’re back at square one. Thankfully, FCDs restrict the flow of grease and keep the system running at optimal levels, while also permitting for further cooling. And, FCDs (in tandem with baffles)- help to minimize the possibility of a nasty grease back-up which can heavily impede a kitchen’s workflow.
For an application engineered around air being the differentiating ingredient, FCDs are intensely vital. So when shopping around, always look for an interceptor with an FCD that’s readily and easily accessible- to ensure you’re are at maximum efficiency around the clock. And if there’s no FCD, it’s probably best for both your business, and the environment, to keep shopping.
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