macerator

A macerator is a mechanical device used to grind and liquefy solid waste. It consists of a sharp rotating blade or impeller that churns and breaks down waste into small particles suspended in water. This process makes it easier to pump the waste through pipes, especially in applications where gravity drainage is not feasible or where smaller diameter pipes are preferred.

Macerators are commonly found in toilets, often referred to as "macerating toilets" or "saniflo toilets" after a popular brand. These toilets are useful in basements or other locations where installing a traditional gravity-fed sewer line would be expensive or impractical. The macerated waste is then pumped through a small discharge pipe to a main sewer line or septic tank.

Beyond domestic use, macerators are also employed in industrial settings, such as food processing plants to break down organic waste, and in hospitals or laboratories for the disposal of medical waste. Their ability to reduce the volume and change the consistency of waste allows for more efficient and hygienic handling and disposal. The design and power of macerators vary depending on the intended application and the type of waste they are expected to process.