USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

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., chairside 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 office 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 the 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 changes 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 synopsis 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 the attached 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 highlighted in the attached tables and a list of questions and items to consider before 

purchasing amalgam separators is attached. Clinics must actively involve their facility managers and 

biomedical engineering 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 synopsis consists 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 tables has been provided by the manufacturer/distributor 

and not necessarily confirmed by DECS evaluation. 

Click here to view the amalgam separator product information.

References

1. Environmental Protection Agency, Notice of Final 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

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators*

Product/Model Rasch 890-1500 Rasch 890-6000 Rasch 890-7000

Manufacturer 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

(360) 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.amalgamseparation.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 Input 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; 

pour 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 Maintenance Flush daily with nonfoaming detergent with 

neutral pH; change canister 

every 18 months (based on 

1 chair doing 25 amalgam 

removals/wk)

Flush daily with nonfoaming 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 amalgam 

removals/wk)

Projected Annual 

Maintenance Costs

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 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)

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 

simply 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. No fullness 

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 Service
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

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) 433-7684 FAX

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 Filtration 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 Capacity 10 chairs; 2 liters / min One unit per chair 2-4 Chairs

Required Maintenance None

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 

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.)

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 with 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 installation date Lifetime replacement Lifetime replacement

Additional Notes and 

Features

Acadia Alert Monitor 

Module Kit (P/N A1330) 

with visual and audible 

indication and Remote 

Panel Switch control

When filter is approx 90% 

full, suction begins to 

degrade – 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 the following tables does 

not imply endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS.
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

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, IL 60060

(847) 393-7261

www.chairsidefilter.com

Dental Recycling North 

America (DRNA)

145 West 58th St., Ste 8C

New York, NY 10019

(800) 360-1001

(866) 600-5377 FAX

www.drna.com

Dental Recycling North 

America (DRNA)

145 West 58th St., 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 Sedimentation

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: Installed 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 are 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 

recommends 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

$31.30 to $187.80 per 

chair per year; 

replacement 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, prepaid shipping materials for 

spent canister (provided), 

& recycling documentation

Replacement canister cost 

includes all associated 

recycling costs to include 

replacement canister, prepaid shipping materials 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 Government

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 future to include mailing unit in or on site pickup.
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators*

Product/Model BU 30 Liberty BOSS Amalgam BOSS

Manufacturer or 

Distributor

Dental Recycling North 

America (DRNA)

145 West 58th St., 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

(866) 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

ISO 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 be 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 Maintenance 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 office to 

minimize crosscontamination issues

Regular dental suction line 

cleaning with neutral pH 

biodegradable cleanser; 

sealed separator is never 

opened in the office to 

minimize crosscontamination issues

Projected Annual 

Maintenance Costs

Replacement canister -

$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 up to 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 to include 

replacement canister, prepaid shipping materials for 

spent canister (provided), 

& recycling documentation

Recycling cost included in 

original cost of separator; 

recycling is performed by 

Veolia Environmental

Recycling cost included in 

original cost of separator; 

recycling 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 Government

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 modification; 

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 in3

; no 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

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators*

Product/Model ECO II CH 12§ CE 18§

Manufacturer or 

Distributor

Purewater Development 

Inc.

5001 SW 74th Court

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 

Solids 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 cleaner 

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 

Maintenance 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 Program 

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 into 

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 are 

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 

valve available 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 monitoring 

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 by DECS.

§

 Information current as of October 2009.
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

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

3511-132nd St. SW

Lynnwood, WA 98087

(800) 569-1088

(800) 964-1412 FAX

www.rebecsolutions.com

Rebec LLC

3511-132nd St. 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

Utilities 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 

hygienist (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 dental suction line 

cleaning protocol with nonoxidizing, enzymatic line 

cleaner (recommends 

VacuBlu) and disinfectant; 

replace spent collector unit 

once per year

Regular dental suction line 

cleaning protocol with nonoxidizing, enzymatic line 

cleaner (recommends 

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 replacement 

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 container 

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 

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 

replacement containers 

arrive in – recycling cost is 

included 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, circular 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 

endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS. §

 Information current as of October 2009.
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators*

Product/Model Catch 1000 Catch 1000 Plus Catch 9000 Plus

Manufacturer or 

Distributor

Rebec LLC

3511-132nd St. SW

Lynnwood, WA 98087

(800) 569-1088

(800) 964-1412 FAX

www.rebecsolutions.com

Rebec LLC

3511-132nd St. SW

Lynnwood, WA 98087

(800) 569-1088

(800) 964-1412 FAX

www.rebecsolutions.com

Rebec LLC

3511-132nd St. 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 filtration 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)

15 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 collector unit once 

per year

Regular dental suction line 

cleaning protocol with nonoxidizing, enzymatic line 

cleaner (recommends 

VacuBlu) and disinfectant; 

replace spent collector unit 

once per year

Regular dental suction line 

cleaning protocol with nonoxidizing, 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 

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 

included in cost of 

replacement 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 custom 

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 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 endorsement, approval, or disapproval by DECS.

Abbreviations: UPS=United Parcel Service
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

Synopsis of Dental Amalgam Separators*

Product/Model CPB-Tank Hg 5-Mini Hg 5

Manufacturer or 

Distributor

Rebec LLC

3511-132nd St. 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) 393-1795 FAX

www.solmetex.com

Solmetex

50 Bearfoot Rd.

Northborough, MA 01532

(508) 393-5115

(800) 216-5505

(508) 393-1795 FAX

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 of waste 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 on wet system

Flow Capacity 100 + chairs (customized 

to facility)

4 chairs 10 chairs

Required Maintenance Regular dental suction line 

cleaning protocol with nonoxidizing, enzymatic line 

cleaner (recommends 

VacuBlu) and disinfectant; 

replace spent collector unit 

once per year

Regular dental suction line 

cleaning protocol with nonoxidizing line cleaner; 

replace collection 

container when solid 

material reaches full line –

typically 6-12 months

Regular dental suction line 

cleaning protocol with nonoxidizing 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

$299.00 per replacement 

collection container

$299.00 per replacement 

collection 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 –

recycling cost is included 

in cost of replacement 

containers

Cost 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 center

Dimensions (W x H x D) Size will vary as system is 

customized per facility, call 

for more information

11 x 21.5 x 8 inches 10 x 29.5 x 8 inches

Price Price varies on custom 

configuration.

Government discount 

available, call for details

$750.00 Retail

$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 Service
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

Synopsis of 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) 393-1795 FAX

www.solmetex.com

ISO 11143 Certification 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 10-20 chairs

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 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 Service
USAF Dental Evaluation & Consultation Service

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 88ABW-2011-0282, 24 Jan 2011.

Items to Consider Before Purchasing an Amalgam Separator*

General Considerations

1. Number 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 large 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. Regulatory 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 flow 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 associated 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 waste and associated components (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 containing 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.