What Is a Catch Basin?
A catch basin is a trap installed in a drainpipe for sewage or rainwater generated from a home or business. A catch basin is primarily installed where drains merge or where pipes bend.
There are several types of catch basin, the most common of which are rainwater catch basins for rainwater, sewage catch basins for domestic wastewater, and public catch basins installed at connections to public sewers.
While rainwater catch basins and sewage catch basins are required to be installed and managed by residents as domestic drainage facilities, public catch basins are installed and managed by public agencies.
Uses of Catch Basins
Catch basins are installed to prevent solids from clogging the pipes and obstructing the flow of sewage and rainwater discharged from the home.
When solids clog the pipes, major repairs may be required in some locations, but it is possible to settle the solids by installing a catch basin in the middle of the pipes.
In addition, the catch basins are designed for easy cleaning, and regular cleaning will prevent clogging and foul odors.
Features of Catch Basins
Catch basins are designed according to standards to ensure a smooth connection to the public sewerage system and to prevent loss of functionality.
In the past, concrete was the main material used, considering earthquake resistance, etc. Today, however, vinyl chloride, which is stronger than concrete and more resistant to deterioration over time, is often used, especially in smaller sizes.
Rainwater catch basins are required to have a mud reservoir with a certain depth to prevent the inflow of mud, while sewage catch basins are required to have an invert to prevent the retention of sewage and to limit the angle of connection with the piping. As for lids, rainwater catch basins can be gridded, but sewage catch basins are required to have sealed lids. In either case, the installation of a double trap is prohibited to prevent gas and other gases from being trapped in the piping.
When cleaning, the lid is removed to remove any floating or settled sewage on the surface, and if necessary, the piping is also cleaned.