How sewage is disposed of in aeroplane?
Waste water created in flight is stored in a holding tank on the aircraft until the plane sets down. When it's on the ground, a service truck rolls up and pumps the contents of the plane's holding tank aboard. A waste station at the airport serves to empty the truck's tank into the community waste water processing system.
This question is part of UPSC exam. View all Class 7 courses
How sewage is disposed of in aeroplane?
Introduction:
Sewage disposal is an essential aspect of maintaining sanitation and hygiene in airplanes. To ensure the safe and efficient disposal of sewage, aircraft are equipped with specific systems that handle this waste. Let's delve into the details of how sewage is disposed of in an airplane.
Onboard Sewage Systems:
Airplanes are equipped with onboard sewage systems that efficiently manage human waste. These systems consist of various components that work together to collect, store, and dispose of sewage appropriately. The key components include:
1. Toilet System: Airplane toilets are designed to facilitate waste collection and prevent any leakage or odor. They typically incorporate a vacuum system, which uses suction to remove waste from the toilet bowl.
2. Waste Storage Tanks: The collected sewage is stored in dedicated waste storage tanks located in the lower section of the aircraft. These tanks are designed to be securely sealed to prevent any leakage or contamination.
3. Disinfection: To maintain hygiene and minimize odor, disinfectant chemicals are added to the waste storage tanks. These chemicals help neutralize the waste and prevent the growth of bacteria or other harmful microorganisms.
Disposal Methods:
Once the aircraft lands, there are three main methods for disposing of the sewage:
1. Airport Sewage Facilities: Many airports have dedicated sewage disposal facilities where aircraft can offload their waste. These facilities are equipped with specialized equipment to safely and efficiently handle the sewage.
2. Ground Service Vehicles: In cases where airports do not have sewage facilities, ground service vehicles equipped with waste tanks can be used. These vehicles connect to the aircraft's sewage system and transfer the waste to their own tanks for later disposal at an appropriate facility.
3. Evaporative Systems: Some aircraft are equipped with evaporative systems that use heat and airflow to evaporate the liquid portion of the sewage. This reduces the volume of waste, making it easier to handle and dispose of. The remaining solid waste is typically removed and disposed of separately.
Conclusion:
The disposal of sewage in an airplane involves the use of onboard sewage systems, waste storage tanks, disinfection methods, and various disposal methods upon landing. By adhering to strict guidelines and regulations, airlines ensure the proper and hygienic disposal of sewage, contributing to the overall cleanliness and safety of aircraft operations.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed Class 7 study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in Class 7.