The 2013 Pumper & Cleaner Environmental Expo International introduced the U.S. market to the German-made GRAF line of two-piece septic tanks from SeptiTech, a subsidiary of Bio-Microbics.
“These tanks are made in Germany and shipped all over the world – to Argentina, Australia and now the U.S.,” says Lee Verbridge, president of SeptiTech. “This is the first time the Americans have seen this tank at the Pumper Show. We figured this would be the right atmosphere to unveil it.”

Available in 700-, 1,000-, 1,250- and 1,700-gallon sizes, the Carat S tanks are engineered for maximum strength and stability and certified watertight. The ribbed design ensures against warping under extreme loads, making the tanks suitable for vehicle loading of up to 3.5 tons. The tanks are groundwater stable to the midsection and can be installed with up to 47 inches of soil covering.

Tank weight ranges from 265 to 485 pounds. The 700-gallon tank is 81.9 inches long, 61.6 inches wide and 79.1 inches tall. The 1,000-gallon tank is 89.8 inches long, 69.1 inches wide and 86.6 inches tall. The 1,250-gallon tank is 89.8 inches long, 78.2 inches wide and 95.7 inches tall. The 1,700-gallon tank is 94 inches long, 86.2 inches wide and 106.7 inches tall.

Quick-connection clips enable the tanks to be assembled without screws. EPDM material used in the profile sealing is laboratory tested to last 25 years. A centering bolt ensures a leak-free fitting and easy assembly of the two half-shells.

A two-piece baffle separates the 700- and 1,000-gallon tanks into two or three chambers, while the 1,250-gallon tank can be divided into multiple positions. An optional seal offers watertight separation.

Multiple seals prevent water seepage and dirt from entering the tank. Seals are located between the tank and tank dome and between the tank dome and telescopic riser. Supply pipes to the tank dome also are sealed.

Mini and maxi telescopic risers, suitable for pedestrian traffic, have a 23.6-inch inside diameter and childproof lock. The mini riser is adjustable from 29.5 to 37.5 inches. It has a 30.6-inch outside diameter and weighs 17 pounds. The 18.7-inch tall maxi riser is adjustable from 29.5 to 41.3 inches. It has an outside diameter of 33.5 inches and weighs 29 pounds.

The telescopic riser with Class B cast-iron lid, suitable for vehicle traffic, adjusts from 31.4 to 41.3 inches. It has an inside diameter of 23.6 inches and outside diameter of 33.5 inches. A 19.7-inch extension provides an effective height of 27.6 inches and allows for a soil covering of up to 59.1 inches when used with the telescoping riser.

Verbridge says the contractors, distributors and state officials he talked to at the show liked the range of available sizes and the overall strength of the tank. “We received a great response. We had a lot of orders from multiple states. People were asking about pricing and availability. We’ll have something new for next year, too,” he says. “We’re going to bring in some more pieces.” 800/318-7967; www.septitech.com.