The Vacutug

The Vacutug generally needs one driver and one or two emptiers for operation. The machine uses a diesel engine-powered vacuum pump to extract sludge from a hose into a collection tank. After extraction, the sludge is transported to a disposal site where it can be discharged by gravity feed or pump pressure out of the hose.

The following are design specifications of different models:

MK-II

-Driving details: Self-driving 4-wheeler, engine powers both the pump and drivetrain, vertically mounted sludge collection tank. Suitable for use on narrow streets and hard to reach extraction sites, on flat ground, and on sites within a short distance.

-Tank Capacity: 700 L

-Pump:  MEC 2000/P

-Engine: 10.5 hp diesel

-Max speed: 5 km/h

MK-III

-Driving details: 2-wheeler trailer unit that must be towed by a tractor or large pick-up truck, horizontally mounted sludge collection tank, this is suitable for use on wider streets and highways.

-Tank Capacity: 2000 L

-Pump: MEC 2000/P

-Engine: 12 hp diesel

-Max speed: 45 km/h

MK-IV and V

-Driving details: The MK-IV and V are identical other than the size of the tank. It is a 3-wheeler BRV (Bangladesh Rural Vehicle), and the engine powers both the pump and drivetrain. There is a horizontally mounted sludge collection tank, and this is suitable for use on narrow streets and highways.

-Tank Capacity: 700 L (MK-IV) and 1000 L (MK-V)

-Pump: MEC 2000/P

-Engine: 12 hp diesel

-Max speed: 30 km/h

MK-VI

-Driving details: This is a 4-wheeler mini truck with a horizontally mounted sludge collection tank and a top cover concealing the engine and pump. Suitable for use on narrow streets, highways and for longer distances.

-Tank Capacity: 1000 L

-Pump: MEC 2000/P

-Engine: 12 hp diesel

-Max speed: 70 km/h

MK-VII

-Driving details: This is a 4-wheeler large truck with a horizontally mounted sludge collection tank, suitable for use on wide streets, highways and for longer distances.

-Tank Capacity: 2000 L

-Pump: MEC 2000/P

-Engine: 12 hp diesel

-Max speed: 100 km/h

Provided by local technicians

Unknown

In the first pilot, the Kenya Water and Health Organization used the Mark I Vacutug model on a commercial basis and during the two year period earned a total profit of 36% on its overheads and estimated that over 400,000 people benefited directly from the use of the Vacutug. Ultimately it developed mechanical problems that took ten months to repair. During the second pilot of 9 Mark II Model Vacutugs produced by MAWTS, a number of shipping issues arose to get the Vacutugs to the pilot countries. Successes included coverage of operating costs by generated revenues and a cheaper cost than a larger tanker, but it is still expensive. Other challenges include obtaining spare parts, handling compacted sludge, maneuverability when needed to reverse or go up slopes, and the slow speed on roads.

The operator should not come into contact with the fecal sludge and must dispose of it according to regulations. Personal protective equipment should include at least a protective suit, face mask, waterproof boots, gloves, and safety googles for the operator. Avoid sparks, such as lighting a cigarette, near the Vacutug. Follow all Operation Procedures while using the machine.