afvoergang

Afvoergang is a drainage channel or conduit intended to carry away liquids from a space, equipment, or system to a disposal point such as a sewer, septic tank, drainage ditch, or natural watercourse. The term is used in Dutch civil engineering, building, and agriculture to describe the physical pathway that collects and conveys effluent.

An afvoergang can be a direct buried pipe, a lined trench, or a channel open to the surface, depending on application. It is typically designed with an appropriate slope to ensure gravitational flow, and must be sealed and ventilated to prevent leaks and odors.

Common materials include concrete, PVC, HDPE, or ductile iron, chosen for durability and chemical compatibility with the conveyed fluids. In buildings, afvoergangen form part of the building's drainage and wastewater system and are connected to sewer networks or on-site treatment such as septic tanks. In agriculture and horticulture, they collect drainage or leachate from fields, greenhouses, or permeable surfaces to prevent waterlogging. In civil engineering, they may function as stormwater conduits or culverts.

Maintenance involves regular inspection and cleaning of sediment and blockages, checking joints, and ensuring access points remain usable. Regulatory aspects are typically defined by local building codes and drainage standards, which specify requirements for slope, materials, capacity, and joint sealing.