Pump blockages caused by fats, oils, and grease (FOG) are a common but often overlooked issue in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food service facilities that operate around the clock. This ongoing challenge constantly strains water utilities and municipalities throughout the year. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, FOG is responsible for 30% of pump station failures nationwide.
The problem with FOG begins when it cools and starts to solidify. As it cools, FOG rapidly congeals into sticky, waxy deposits. In relatively stagnant environments—such as wet wells or pump chambers—these deposits can accumulate into large, hard clumps or thick layers.
More critically, FOG combines with other materials commonly found in sewage – such as wipes, sanitary products, and other rag-like debris – to create large, fibrous masses, sometimes known as “fatbergs.” These are particularly troublesome in pumps, as they can wrap around components or cause severe clogging. These blockages can lead to costly repairs and service disruptions, pose serious environmental risks, and potentially result in regulatory fines.
The DERAGGER+™: A Game-Changer for Pump Efficiency
The DERAGGER+™ is an intelligent control system by Industrial Flow Solutions™ designed to eliminate ragging and clogging issues in pump stations. DERAGGER® is revolutionizing how utilities handle FOG-related blockages. Unlike traditional methods, the DERAGGER+™ takes a proactive approach, using patented low-voltage technology to detect and prevent blockages in real-time. This reduces unplanned downtime and helps avoid sewage overflows and their associated environmental and financial consequences.
More Intelligent Monitoring, Better Decisions
What sets the DERAGGER+™ apart is its advanced diagnostics and power monitoring capabilities. The system continuously tracks performance, storing over 170 timestamped events, alarms, and trips, which provides operators with a detailed view of how the pumps are functioning.
With a full year of downloadable operational data, teams can make informed maintenance decisions, identify trends, and optimize pump-up time across their networks.
Easy to Install, Built to Fit
The DERAGGER+™ is designed with flexibility in mind. Its compact 35mm (1.37in) width allows for simple retrofitting into existing control panels. Whether you’re working with Direct-On-Line (DOL), Star/Delta, Soft Start, or Variable Speed Drive (VSD) systems, this solution plugs in seamlessly, adapting to pumping stations of all sizes—from small sites to major infrastructure.
Real Results for Real Challenges
By integrating the DERAGGER+™ into their networks, water utilities and municipalities can significantly reduce manual interventions and reactive maintenance, lowering operational costs and enhancing environmental compliance.
As we head into the busiest time of the year, there’s no better moment to tackle FOG-related issues head-on with smart technology that works around the clock.
Discover how the DERAGGER® intelligent control systems & advanced network monitoring technology can transform your pumping stations. Visit www.flowsolutions.com
