USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Return to Equipment Evaluations 

### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators ( Project # 10 - 017 )( 2/ 11 ) Amalgam has many desirable properties as a dental material. Although its use is decreasing, amalgam remains one of the most widely used restorative materials in dentistry. While the safety of dental amalgam in patient care is well established, amalgam entering the sewage system by way of dental vacuum systems may be exposed to conditions that do not occur in the mouth such as incineration of wastewater treatment plant sludge. This can result in release of mercury to the environment. Mercury can be a problem for wastewater treatment plants as the sludge generated by the water treatment process is sometimes incinerated, sometimes disposed of in solid waste landfills, and sometimes applied to agricultural land as fertilizer. Also, a portion of the dissolved amalgam/mercury passes through the plant and is discharged to surface waters. Most dental offices currently use some type of basic filtration system to reduce the amount of mercury solids passing into the sewer system (e.g., chairsid e traps, vacuum pump filters). However, the installation of amalgam separators and the use of best management practices have been shown to reduce discharges even further. 1 

### Amalgam separators are devices designed to remove amalgam particles from dental offi ce wastewater through sedimentation, filtration, centrifugation, chemical removal by ion exchange or a combination of these mechanisms. An amalgam separator typically consists of a canister that is located either in the dental treatment room (DTR) or in th e mechanical room adjacent to the vacuum pump. Amalgam separators meeting the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard can capture over 95% of the amalgam discharged by dental offices into sewer systems. Just purchasing and installing an amalgam separator does not ensure compliance; amalgam separators require regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure they are functioning properly. This varies depending upon the amalgam separator your chose and your practice volume. For example, the collected amalgam may have to be removed daily with some units or in high

-volume practices, while other units may only have to be serviced periodically (e.g., every three to 18 months). It is also important to plan how you will dispose of the amalgam waste and used parts of the amalgam separator (e.g., used cartridges and filters). Some amalgam separator companies offer disposal/recycling of the amalgam waste as part of a package when you purchase their product, while other companies leave it to the user to obtain disposal/ recycling services. Presently, there is no national requirement for amalgam separators. However, some individual states and localities require installation of separators, and recently the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA) announced cha nges to reduce mercury waste from dental facilities that will take effect in 2012. As a result, United States Air Force (USAF) dental clinics should begin to prepare for the purchase and installation of an amalgam separator system now. For additional information regarding AF policy and amalgam separators, please Click Here

. The purpose of this synopsis is to introduce dental clinics to some options that are available for amalgam separation systems. This sy nopsis includes amalgam separators that are marketed directly to dentists, and is not intended to include all systems available. Amalgam separator manufacturers and distributors differed in how their products were presented, so a direct comparison from theattached synopsis may be difficult. To select the unit that best meets your needs, you will need to take time to understand how amalgam separators work and the unique differences between the available separators. Some key points to consider are highlighte d in the attached tablesand a list of questions and items to consider before purchasing amalgam separators is attached

. Clinics must actively involve their facility managers and biomedical engineer ing technicians in the purchasing decision to ensure compatibility of the amalgam separator with existing facility features, proper installation, future maintenance requirements, and proper disposal of the waste. The following synopsisconsists of tables providing basic information about ISO

- certified amalgam separators listed alphabetically by manufacturer; prices are based on currently available information and are subject to change. The information in the tableshas b een provided by the manufacturer/distributor and not necessarily confirmed by DECS evaluation. Click hereto view the amalgam separator product information. References 1. Environmental Protection Agency, Notice of F inal 2008 Effluent Guidelines Program Plan, 73 Fed. Reg. 53,219,53,234 (September 15,2008) (EPA Final 2008 Effluent Guidelines Plan FR Notice).USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model Rasch 890- 1500 Rasch 890- 6000 Rasch 890- 7000 Manufactu rer or Distributor AB Dental Trends 211 Grover St. Lynden, WA 98264 (800) 817

- 6704 (360) 354

- 4722 (360) 354

- 7460 FAX www.amalgamseparation.com AB Dental Trends 211 Grover St. Lynden, WA 98264 (800) 817

- 6704 (3 60) 354

- 4722 (360) 354

- 7460 FAX www.amalgamseparation.com AB Dental Trends 211 Grover St. Lynden, WA 98264 (800) 817

- 6704 (360) 354

- 4722 (360) 354

- 7460 FAX www.ama lgamseparation.com ISO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Sedimentation, Filtration, Ion Exchange Sedimentation, Filtration, Ion Exchange Sedimentation, Filtration, Ion Exchange Utilities Required None None None Installation at Inp ut or Output of Vacuum Solids Separator or Waste Collection Tank Just after waste collection tank (drain) on dry systems just before solids separator on wet system Just after waste collection tank (drain) on dry systems just before solids separator on wet system Use with portable pump; p our effluent collector jar into hopper on top of 890

- 7000 unit Flow Capacity 12 chairs; 4 liters / min

- units can be connected in parallel to increase capacity as needed 12 chairs; 4 liters / min

- units can be connected in Just after waste collection tank (drain) on dry systems just before solids separator on wet system parallel to increase capacity as needed 12 chairs; 4 liters / min

- units can be connected in parallel to increase capacity as needed

Required Maintenanc e Flush daily with non

foaming detergent with neutral pH; change canister every 18 months (based on 1 chair doing 25 amalgam removals/wk) Flush daily with non

foaming detergent with neutral pH; change canister every 18 months (based on 1 chair doing 25 ama lgam removals/wk) Flush daily with non

-foaming detergent with neutral pH; change canister every 18 months (based on 1 chair doing 25 amalgam removals/wk) Projected Annual Maintenance Costs Replacement Canister

– (#890

- 2000). $449.00 Retail; $269.00 Gover nment = $179.33 / DTR / yr

- (DTRs used for other than operative will produce less amalgam waste driving less frequent canister replacement) Replacement Canister

– (#890

- 2000). $449.00 Retail; $269.00 Government = $179.33 / DTR / yr

- (DTRs used for other than operative will produce less amalgam waste driving less frequent canister replacement) Replacement Canister

– (#890

- 2000). $449.00 Retail; $269.00 Government = $179.33 / DTR / yr

- (DTRs used for other than operative will produce less amalgam waste dri ving less frequent canister replacement) Recycling Program Yes Yes Yes Recycling Program Description Canisters are shipped to recycling company via UPS in pre

- paid envelopes provided with purchase Canisters are shipped to recycling company via UPS in pre

- paid envelopes provided with purchase Canisters are shipped to recycling company via UPS in pre

- paid envelopes provided with purchase Dimensions (W x H x D) 10.25 x 22 x 17 inches 9 x 9 x 12.25 inches 9.5 x 15 x 13 inches Price $695.00 Retail $417.00 Government $525.00 Retail $315.00 Government $985.00 Retail $591.00 Government Warranty 5 years 5 years 5 years Additional Notes and Features Optional bypass alarm available; other than alarm, no fullness level indicator present; once full, effluent simp ly bypasses separator Optional bypass alarm available; other than alarm, no fullness level indicator present; once full, effluent simply bypasses separator Fully portable unit, with effluent hose that routes directly to a sink and into the sewer system. Nofullness level indicator present; once full, flow through unit will stop. *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS. Abbreviations: DTR=Dental Treatment Room; UPS=United Parcel ServiceUSAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model ACADIA A 1250 ASDEX AS - 10 ASDEX AS - 20 Manufacturer or Distributor Air Techniques 1295 Walt Whitman Road Melville , NY 11747

- 3062 (800) 247

- 8324 ( 516 ) 433

- 7676 ( 516 ) 433

- 7684FAX www.airtechniques.com/dental Capsule Technologies 3965 Meadowbrook Rd. St. Louis Park MN 55426 (952) 933

- 4147 (952) 933

- 2696 FAX www.amalgamas9.com Capsule Technologies 3965 Meadowbrook Rd. St. Louis Park, MN 55426 (952) 933

- 4147 (952) 933

- 2696 FAX www.amalgamas9.com ISO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Filtrati on Filtration Filtration Utilities Required None None None Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Solids Separator or Waste Collection Tank Just before waste collection tank on dry systems just before solids separator on wet system Input Input

Flow C apacity 10 chairs; 2 liters / min One unit per chair 2- 4 Chairs Required Maintenance No ne Visible fill

- line indicator or electronic sensor (optional) indicates filter replacement Not listed (Capsule stated the separator requires no maintenance itself, and since they are not in the dental business, they did not feel qualified to make clinical recommendations like vacuum line cleaning, but that would likely extend life of filter.) Not listed (Capsule stated the separator requires no maintenance itself, and s ince they are not in the dental business, they did not feel qualified to make clinical recommendations like vacuum line cleaning, but that would likely extend life of filter.) Projected Annual Maintenance Costs Replacement filter

- $250.00 each; replace every 6 months = 5

– 10 users; 6 to 9 months= 3

–4 users; 9 to 12 months = 1

–2 users Replacement filter

-$99.00 each; replace every 6

- 8 months = $148.50

- $198.00 / yr Replacement filter

- $198.00 each; replace every 6

- 8 months = $297.00

- $398.00 / yr
Recycling Program No No No Recycling Program Description Information for recycling source provided with filter; recycled at own expense Information for recycling source provided with filter; recycled at own expense Information for recycling source provided wi th filter; recycled at own expense Dimensions (W x H x D) 20.6 x 26.9 x 14.7 inches 5 x 14 x 5 inches 5 x 24 x 5 inches Price $1000.00 Retail $522.00 Government $233.00 Retail $233.00 Government $332.00 Retail $332.00 Government Warranty 1 year from i nstall ation date Lifetime replacement Lifetime replacement Additional Notes and Features Acadia Alert Monitor Module Kit (P/N A1330) withvisual and audible indication and Remote Panel Switch control When filter is approx 90% full, suction begins to degra de

– replace when suction reaches unacceptable level When filter is approx 90% full, suction begins to degrade

– replace when suction reaches unacceptable level *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in th e following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS.USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators*
Product/Model DD2009 BU 10 BU 10 -5 Manufacturer or Distributor Dennis J. Duel and Associates Inc. 1127 Magnolia Road, Mundelein, I L 60060 (847) 393

- 7261 www.chairsidefilter.com Dental Recycling North America (DRNA) 145 West 58thSt., Ste 8C New York, NY 10019 (800) 360

- 1001 (866) 600

- 5377 FAX www.drna.com Dental Recycling North America (DRNA) 145 West 58thSt., Ste 8C New York, NY 10019 (800) 360

- 1001 (866) 600

- 5377 FAX www.drna.com ISO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Filtration Sedimentation Sedimen tation Utilities Required None 110 volt electrical outlet; DRNA pump is 9vdc

– 12vdc, 2A (MAX) 110 volt electrical outlet ; DRNA pump is 9vdc

– 12vdc, 2A (MAX) Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Solids Separator or Waste Collection Tank Neither: In stalled near the chair in

- line with the high volume evacuation vacuum hose Input Input

Flow Capacity One unit per chair 6 chairs 6 chairs Required Maintenance None listed. Chairside filter indicates the filter unit requires no maintenance itself. Units a re to be replaced when vacuum levels diminish and fall below recommended levels. Typical change out is 1 month for heavy usage and normal to low usage is 6 months or greater. Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with neutral pH cleaner; DRNA reco mmends replacing separator canister every 12 months Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with neutral pH cleaner; DRNA recommends replacing separator canister every 12 months

Projected Annual Maintenance Costs $31.30to $187.80 per chair per year; r eplacement depends on usage Replacement canister

- $500.00 / yr; replace yearly Replacement canister

- $500.00 / yr; replace yearly
Recycling Program No † Yes Yes Recycling Program Description NA † Replacement canister cost includes all associated recycling costs to include replacement canister, pre

paid shipping materials for spent canister (provided), & recycling documentation Replacement canister cost includes all associated recycling costs to include replacement canister, pre

paid shipping material s for spent canister (provided), & recycling documentation Dimensions (W x H x D) 5 x 5 x 11 inches 8.5 x 20.5 x 8.5 inches 6.6 x 18.5 x 6.6 inches Price $44.00 Retail , $15.65 Government $750.00 Retail $750.00 Government $750.00 Retail $750.00 Governm ent Warranty NA 1 Year 1 Year Additional Notes and Features Filter unit comes with 1⁄2 and 5/8 inch hose barbs and vinyl caps *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS. † Recycling program is anticipated to be in place in the futureto include mailing unit in or on site pickup.USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model BU 30 Liberty BOSS Amalgam BOSS Manufact urer or Distributor Dental Recycling North America (DRNA) 145 West 58thSt., Ste 8C New York, NY 10019 (800) 360

- 1001 (866) 600

- 5377 FAX www.drna.com M.A.R.S. Bio

- Med, Inc. 2710 Thomas Ave., Ste. 649 Cheyenne, WY 82001 (8 66) 594

- 3648 (716) 852

- 0136 FAX www.marsbiomed.com M.A.R.S. Bio

- Med, Inc. 2710 Thomas Ave., Ste. 649 Cheyenne, WY 82001 (866) 594

- 3648 (716) 852

- 0136 FAX www.marsbiomed.com
I SO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Sedimentation Sedimentation, Filtration, and Ion Exchange Sedimentation, Filtration, and Ion Exchange Utilities Required 110 volt electrical outlet; DRNA pump is 9vdc

– 12vdc, 2A (MAX) None

– Can b e adapted to any diameter vacuum line None

– Can be adapted to any diameter vacuum line Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Solids Separator or Waste Collection Tank Input Input Input

Flow Capacity 20 chairs 17 chairs 10 chairs Required Maintenanc e Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with neutral pH cleaner; DRNA recommends replacing separator canister every 12 months Regular dental suction line cleaning with neutral pH biodegradable cleanser; sealed separator is never opened in the offic e to minimize cross

contamination issues Regular dental suction line cleaning with neutral pH biodegradable cleanser; sealed separator is never opened in the office to minimize cross

contamination issues Projected Annual Maintenance Costs Replacement can ister

- $750.00 / yr; replace yearly Replacement unit

- $1,394.00; 1

- 3 chairs lasts up to 3 yrs; 4

- 10 chairs up to 2 yrs; 11

- 17 chairs up to 1 yr

– perform periodic visual inspection before scheduled replacement Replacement unit

-$999.00; 1 chair lasts upto 2 yrs; 2

- 3 chairs up to 1.5 yrs; 4

- 10 chairs up to 1 yr

– perform periodic visual inspection before scheduled replacement Recycling Program Yes Yes Yes Recycling Program Description Replacement canister cost includes all associated recycling costs toinclude replacement canister, pre

paid shipping materials for spent canister (provided), & recycling documentation Recycling cost included in original cost of separator; r ecycling is performed by Veolia Environmental Recycling cost included in original co st of separator; r ecycling is performed by Veolia Environmental

Dimensions (W x H x D) 12 x 25 x 12 inches 12 x 22 x 12 inches 12 x 22 x 12 Price $1,395.00 Retail $1,195.00 Government $1,549.00 Retail $1,394.00 Government $999.00 Retail $899.00 Governme nt Warranty 1 Year Lifetime replacement Lifetime replacement Additional Notes and Features Separators can be connected in series to accommodate larger facilities >17 chairs supported by connecting separators in parallel, which may require plumbing modifi cation; separator fill level can be viewed by shining light through sedimentation leg Separator fill level can be viewed by shining light through sedimentation leg; leg does not have the exit capability . Sludge capacity is 182 in 3 ; n o interim maintenance required. *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS.USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model ECO II CH 1 2 § CE 18 §
Manufacturer or Distributor Purewater Development Inc. 5001 SW 74 thCourt Miami, FL 33155 (305) 663

- 2989 (305) 662

- 7479 FAX www.ecotwo.com R & D Services 8116 Green Lake Dr. N Seattle, WA 98103 (800) 525

- 2063 (206) 525

- 2063 FAX www.theamalgamcollector.com R & D Services 8116 Green Lake Dr. N Seattle, WA 98103 (800) 525

- 2063 (206) 525

- 2063 FAX www.theamalgamcollector .com ISO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Sedimentation Sedimentation Sedimentation Utilities Required None None Manual valve

– None; Auto siphon valve

– 110 volt electrical outlet Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Solid s Separator or Waste Collection Tank Input for wet ring pumps; Output for dry vacuum Input Input

Flow Capacity 5 chairs 1 chair 4 chairs Required Maintenance Regular dental suction line cleaning

-recommend daily use of Green&Clean M2 suction line cleane r which is provided with separator Turn one external valve (to drain water) once per week for 30 seconds Daily

– canister decanting

- manually or automatically; every 3 yrs

– empty sludge into recycle container or replace canister
Projected Annual Mainten ance Costs Replacement container

- $206.00 + $128.00 recycling fee; recommend unit be replaced annually $0.00 to $50.00 depending on recycling option chosen $0.00 to $133.33 depending on recycling option chosen
Recycling Program Yes No No Recycling Prog ram Description Spent container is sent to METASYS for recycling; $128.00 recycling fee includes postage and disposal of other scrap amalgam (if desired) Canister will be full after 4 years. Recycle options: 1) Canister can be opened and sludge emptied in to amalgam waste container for recycling, then canister can be reused; or 2) Entire canister can be replaced ($300.00)

– amalgam sludge or spent canister recycling costs are at clinic expense Canister will be full after 3 yrs. Recycle options (at clinic expense): 1) Canister can be opened and sludge emptied into amalgam waste container for recycling, allowing canister to be reused; or 2) Catchment container on bottom of canister can be replaced ($250.00)

– amalgam sludge or spent canister recycling costs ar e at clinic expense Dimensions (W x H x D) 8.7 x 13.8 x 8.7 inches 6 x 12 x 6 inches 6 x 19 x 6 inches Price $560.00 Retail $560.00 Government $595.00 Retail 10

– 25% Government discount depending on volume of purchase $825.00 Retail (Auto siphon valveavailable at additional cost) 10

– 25% Government discount depending on volume of purchase Warranty 1 Year 30 months 30 months Additional Notes and Features Cost includes Green&Clean M2 suction line cleaner Transparent, circular design for easy monitori ng of sludge levels Transparent, circular design for easy monitoring of sludge levels *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval byDECS. §Information current as of October 2009.USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model CE 24 § Catch 400 Catch 400 Plus Manufacturer or Distributor R & D Services 8116 Green Lake Dr. N Seattle, WA 98103 (800) 525

- 2063 (206) 525

- 2063 FAX www.theamalgamcollector.com Rebec LLC 3511

- 132 ndSt. SW Lynnwood, WA 98087 (800) 569

- 1088 (800) 964

- 1412 FAX www.rebecsolutions.com Rebec LLC 3511

- 132 ndSt. SW Lynnwood, WA 98087 (800) 569

- 1088 (800) 964

- 1412 FAX www.rebecsolutions.com ISO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Sedimentation Sedimentation and filtration Sedimentation and filtration Ut ilities Required Manual valve

– None; Auto siphon valve

– 110 volt electrical outlet None None
Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Solids Separator or Waste Collection Tank Input Input Input

Flow Capacity 12 chairs 6 dentists or 1 dentist and 1 hyg ienist (without air abrasion or prophy jet pumice use) 6 dentists or 2 dentists and 2 hygienists
Required Maintenance Daily

– canister decanting

- manually or automatically; every 3 yrs

– empty sludge into recycle container or replace canister Regular den tal suction line cleaning protocol with non

oxidizing, enzymatic line cleaner (recommends VacuBlu) and disinfectant; replace spent collector unit once per year Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

oxidizing, enzymatic line cleaner (recomm ends VacuBlu) and disinfectant; replace spent collector unit once per year Projected Annual Maintenance Costs $0.00 to $200.00 depending on recycling option chosen $445.00 for replacement collection container (govt discount available) $645.00 for 2 repla cement collection containers (govt discount available) Recycling Program No Yes Yes Recycling Program Description Canister will be full after 3 yrs. Recycle options (at clinic expense): 1) Canister can be opened and sludge emptied into amalgam waste cont ainer for recycling, allowing canister to be reused; or 2) Catchment container on bottom of canister can be replaced ($300.00)

– amalgam sludge or spent canister recycling costs are at clinic expense Spent collection containers shipped UPS or FEDEX to Rebe c in the same box that replacement containers arrive in

– recycling cost is included in cost of replacement containers Spent collection containers shipped UPS or FEDEX to Rebec in the same box that replacement containers arrive in

– recycling cost is inclu ded in cost of replacement containers

Dimensions (W x H x D) 8 x 24 x 8 inches 14 x 18 x 8 inches 14 x 18 x 17 inches Price $1,245.00 Retail (Auto siphon valve available at additional cost) 10

– 25% Government discount depending on volume of purchase $ 1185.00 Retail Government discount available, call for details $1,365.00 Retail Government discount available, call for details

Warranty 30 months 2 years full, 7 years limited 2 years full, 7 years limited Additional Notes and Features Transparent, circ ular design for easy monitoring of sludge levels Not recommended for clinics using pumice for air abrasion or prophy jet *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endo rsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS. §Information current as of October 2009.USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model Catch 1000 Catch 1000 Plus Catch 9000 Plus Manufacturer or Distributor Rebec LLC 3511

- 132 ndSt. SW Lynnwood, WA 9 8087 (800) 569

- 1088 (800) 964

- 1412 FAX www.rebecsolutions.com Rebec LLC 3511

- 132 ndSt. SW Lynnwood, WA 98087 (800) 569

- 1088 (800) 964

- 1412 FAX www.rebecsolutions.com R ebec LLC 3511

- 132 ndSt. SW Lynnwood, WA 98087 (800) 569

- 1088 (800) 964

- 1412 FAX www.rebecsolutions.com ISO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Sedimentation and filtration Sedimentation and fi ltration Sedimentation and filtration Utilities Required None None None Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Separator Tank Input Input Input
Flow Capacity 10 dentists or 2 dentists and 2 hygienists (without air abrasion or prophy jet pumice use) 1 5 dentists or 3 dentists and 3 hygienists Can be customized to handle any size facility
Required Maintenance Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

- oxidizing, enzymatic line cleaner (recommends VacuBlu) and disinfectant; replace spent coll ector unit once per year Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

oxidizing, enzymatic line cleaner (recommends VacuBlu) and disinfectant; replace spent collector unit once per year Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

oxidi zing, enzymatic line cleaner (recommends VacuBlu) and disinfectant; replace spent collector unit once per year Projected Annual Maintenance Costs $445.00 for replacement collection container (govt discount available) $645.00 for 2 replacement collection containers (govt discount available) $895.00 for 3 replacement collection containers (govt discount available); costs will be higher for larger clinics requiring additional collection containers Recycling Program Yes Yes Yes Recycling Program Description Spent collection containers shipped UPS or FEDEX to Rebec in the same box that replacement containers arrive in

– recycling cost is included in cost of replacement containers Spent collection containers shipped UPS or FEDEX to Rebec in the same box that r eplacement containers arrive in

– recycling cost is included in cost of replacement containers Spent collection containers shipped UPS or FEDEX to Rebec in the same box that replacement containers arrive in

– recycling cost is included in cost of replaceme nt containers Dimensions (W x H x D) 20 x 23.5 x 8 inches 20 x 23.5 x 16 inches 24 x 48 x 22 inches Price $1,995.00 Retail Government discount available, call for details $2009.00 Retail Government discount available, call for details Price varies on c ustom configuration. Government discount available, call for details Warranty 2 years full, 7 years limited 2 years full, 7 years limited 2 years full, 7 years limited Additional Notes and Features Not recommended for clinics using pumice for air abrasio n or prophy jet *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS. Abbreviations: UPS=United Parcel ServiceUSAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model CPB - Tank Hg 5 - Mini Hg 5 Manufacturer or Distributor Rebec LLC 3511

- 132 ndSt. SW Lynnwood, WA 98087 (800) 569

- 1088 (800) 964

- 1412 FAX www.rebecsolutions.com Solmetex 50 Bearfoot Rd. Northborough, MA 01532 (508) 393

- 5115 (800) 216

- 5505 (508) 393

- 1795FAX www.solmetex.com Solmetex 50 Bearfoot Rd. Northborough, MA 01532 (508) 393

- 5115 (800) 216

- 5505 (508) 393

- 1795FAX www.solmetex.com ISO 11143 Certification Yes Yes Yes Separation Technology Sedimentation and filtration Sedimentation Sedimentation Utilities Required None None None Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Solids Separator or Waste Collection Tank Output ofwaste collection tank and on the output of the wet

- ring pump Just before waste collection tank on dry systems; just before solids separator on wet system Just before waste collection tank on dry systems; just before solids separator onwet system Flow Capacity 100 + chairs (customized to facility) 4 chairs 10 chairs Required Maintenance Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

oxidizing, enzymatic line cleaner (recommends VacuBlu) and disinfectant; replace spent collecto r unit once per year Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

oxidizing line cleaner; replace collection container when solid material reaches full line

– typically 6

- 12 months Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

oxidizing line cleaner; replace collection container when solid material reaches full line

– typically 6

- 12 months Projected Annual Maintenance Costs Price will vary for each custom system $2 99 .00 per replacement collection container $2 99 .00 per replacement colle ction container Recycling Program Yes Yes Yes Recycling Program Description Spent collection containers shipped UPS or FEDEX to Rebec in the same box that replacement containers arrive in

– recycl ing cost is included in cost of replacement containers Cos t of shipping and recycling included in price of replacement container

– full container shipped UPS directly to recycling center Cost of shipping and recycling included in price of replacement container

– full container shipped UPS directly to recycling ce nter

Dimensions (W x H x D) Size will vary as system is customized per facility, call for more information 11 x 21.5 x 8inches 10 x 29.5 x 8 inches

Price Price varies on custom configuration. Government discount available, call for details $750.00 Reta il $750.00 Government $750.00 Retail $750.00 Government
Warranty 2 years full, 7 years limited 2 years 2 years Additional Notes and Features Clear collection container allows visual determination of fill level Clear collection container allows visual determination of fill level *The manufacturers provided the data in this table. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS. Abbreviations: UPS=United Parcel ServiceUSAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Synopsis o f Dental Amalgam Separators* Product/Model Hg 5 - HV Manufacturer or Distributor Solmetex 50 Bearfoot Rd. Northborough, MA 01532 (508) 393

- 5115 (800) 216

- 5505 (508) 393

- 1795FAX www.solmetex.com ISO 11143 Certificati on Yes Separation Technology Sedimentation Utilities Required None Installation at Input or Output of Vacuum Solids Separator or Waste Collection Tank Just before waste collection tank on dry systems; just before solids separator on wet system Flow Capacity 10

- 20chairs Required Maintenance Regular dental suction line cleaning protocol with non

- oxidizing line cleaner; replace collection containers when solid material reaches full line

– typically 6

- 12 months (system uses 2 containers) Projected Annual Maintenance Costs $600.00 for 2 replacement collection containers Recycling Program Yes Recycling Program Description Cost of shipping and recycling included in price of replacement container

– full container shipped UPS directly to recycling center Dimensions (W x H x D) 18 x 28 x 22 inches Price $ 2500 .00 Retail $2, 500 .00 Government Warranty 2 years Additional Notes and Features Clear collection container allows visual determination of fill level *The manufacturers provided the data in this tabl e. The listing or omission of a product in the following tables does not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS. Abbreviations: UPS=United Parcel ServiceUSAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

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### Items to Consider Before Purchasing an Amalgam Separator* General Considerations 1. N umber of dental operatories

- Clinics with four or more chairs should consider central, not chairside units. 2. Number of amalgam restorations placed or removed each day

- Clinics performing > 40 amalgam

- related procedures/week may need a unit with a larg e storage capacity. 3. Do you operate wet/dry cuspidors?

- If possible (and if permissible under applicable law), wet cuspidors should be plumbed to a separate line; if not, the separator

should have a holding or surge tank with sufficient capacity. 4. R egulatory considerations

- Inquire about state

- specific and/or local regulations. 5. Cost

- Consider initial amalgam separator purchase, installation expenses, cost of replacement parts/maintenance, and disposal cost. Building Configurations 6. Is there sufficient space available to the air/water separator drain - line and sewer - line connection?

- Some separators rely on gravity flow and require adequate space from the air/water separator line to connect to the drain system. 7. Electrical power (voltage)

- Check the power supply needs for each model under consideration. 8. Size and material of existing sewer connection

- Separator installation should not constrict existing vacuum or drain

- line requirements. Vacuum System 9. Do you use a wet or dry vacuum system?

- Wet

- ring vacuum pumps generate additional water flow that will require greater storage capacity. 10. Warranty issues

- Some warranties on existing equipment may be invalidated if parts of the system are modified by third parties. 11. Location of the vacuum system (e.g., clinic level or basement)

- Clinic level systems may require smaller units.

- Vacuum systems should be vented to outside air. 12. Space available adjacent to vacuum system

- Access to upstream piping is critical for maintenance and inspection of systems.

- To minimize the effect on vacuum pressure, install the amalgam separator as near as possible to the vacuum pump. Amalgam Separator Specifications 13. Recommended installation location

- Consider space, workload, and plumbing.

- Investigate state and municipal plumbing code requirements.

- Is the location climate

- controlled (e.g., amalgam separator may not function in extreme hot/cold). 14. Capacity

- Choose a separator that can accommodate your clinic workload. 15. Maximum f low rate

- Choose a separator that can accommodate your clinic capacity. 16. Life - cycle cost

- Consider maintenance, cost of replacement parts, and life expectancy of the main unit. Equipment Servicing/Maintenance 17. What type of maintenance is required and who will service the equipment?

- Who will be responsible for maintenance (e.g., dental clinic staff, facility management, third party); what are the recommended

maintenance requirements and schedule (e.g., some require daily maintenance) and associat ed costs?

- How often do you have to remove collected amalgam (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly, yearly)?

- Continue to use non

- chlorinated line cleaners/disinfectants to minimize the dissolution of amalgam.

- Some equipment may have audible or visual alarms; if this is the case; ensure it is in a location where it will be readily detected. Disposal/Recycling 18. How will you dispose of your amalgam separator waste?

- Will your base hazardous waste personnel accept the amalgam separator wasteand associated c omponents (e.g., used filters,

cartridges) ?

- Many amalgam separator manufacturers offer recycling programs as part of their package

—inquire if they will also accept your

other amalgam waste (e.g., scrap amalgam, used capsules and traps, extracted teeth c ontaining amalgam) and provide appropriate documentation required by federal (EPA) and state/local regulations. (Note: As a waste generator, the dental clinic is responsible for ensuring proper disposal of amalgam waste.) *Adapted from: Mc Manus KR, Fan PL. Purchasing, installing and operating dental amalgam separators: practical issues. J Am Dent Assoc 2003;134:1054

– 1065 and American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs. Professional Product Review. 2007: Volume 2/Issue 4.