Why is proper pipework essential for maintaining strong dental suction in your surgery?
Sometimes poor suction isn't necessarily caused by the suction unit itself but rather down to improper pipework. This also isn't an easy thing to be identified by the customer, as it may require the removal of cabinetry and even floor boards to inspect the pipework.
Poor suction caused by the presence of ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) pipework occurs because the ABS pipes become warped, fracture, and lose their resilience to chemicals and high temperatures, which are significant factors in a dental environment.
ABS pipework remains valuable in suitable environments due to its durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to most saline solutions, alkalis, and acidic liquids, making it ideal for domestic and sewage applications. MuPVC (Modified Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is the preferred choice for dental environments as it is more resistant to certain chemicals than ABS and better suited for higher temperature systems. ABS is also advised against in the HTM2022-1 document produced by the NHS.

As a general guideline, always verify the schedule of works if you are having new pipework installed and ensure it specifies MuPVC instead of ABS. Don't just reply on a supplier or installer telling you it is correct - we have seen installations where suppliers have told a customer that ABS is not used, but on inspection of the material, it is used either throughout and extensively, or odd fittings in an otherwise MuPVC system - any reputable trade will gladly allow you to look over their work. Always request photos of the pipework before cabinetry or floorboards are reinstalled. Keeping these photos for your own records is advisable should any issues arise in the future, as they can help identify what is in place and where, without causing unnecessary disruption.
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