Guardian Amalgam Collector

Below is a list of the common questions users have asked while using the Guardian Amalgam Collector

Is Amalgam Separation necessary?
Are there any standards for amalgam-separating systems?
What vacuum systems are compatible with the Guardian Amalgam Collector?
Why is the Guardian Amalgam Collector the best choice for amalgam separation?
Do I have to install the Guardian Amalgam Collector myself?
How often do I have to replace the Guardian Amalgam Collector?
How do I dispose of the collected material properly?
Why can't I just use the “Red Bag” Services to dispose of the Guardian Amalgam Collector?
Does the Guardian Amalgam Collector have a warranty?
How much does the Guardian Amalgam Collector cost?

1. Is Amalgam Separation necessary?

Yes, because amalgam contains about 50% mercury. Mercury is a persistent, bioaccumulative toxin that poses a risk to human health, wildlife and the environment. Mercury is becoming a regulatory target at the state and municipal levels. Awareness grows as an expanding body of legislation is being enacted to dramatically curb mercury discharges into wastewater systems. Air Techniques Guardian Amalgam Collector solves this problem efficiently, and with full compliance.

2. Are there any standards for amalgam-separating systems?

Yes. The ISO (International Standards Organization) 11143 governs the effectiveness of amalgam-separating systems. The Guardian Amalgam Collector exceeds these standards by removing over 99% of the amalgam in the waste water.

3. What vacuum systems are compatible with the Guardian Amalgam Collector?

The Guardian Amalgam Collector will work with all dental suction systems; both new installations and retrofits to existing pumps. Air Techniques offers kits that are available for both dry and wet vacuum systems.

4. Why is the Guardian Amalgam Collector the best choice for amalgam separation?

There are 3 different types of amalgam removal devices available: filtration, chemical and sedimentation. Of the 3, Air Techniques’ research indicates a sedimentation type collector offers the best combination of high-efficiency, reliability and modest cost. As wastewater passes through the Guardian Amalgam Collector, its flow is slowed, allowing particles to settle and then be trapped in the collector.

5. Do I have to install the Guardian Amalgam Collector myself?

No. Your authorized Air Techniques’ dealer will arrange for the installation.

6. How often do I have to replace the Guardian Amalgam Collector?

The Amalgam Collector needs to be replaced after 12 months or less depending on your practice size. Please refer to the following table as guideline for replacing the Guardian Amalgam Collector.

Practice Size	Approximate length of time for 1 Amalgam Collector
1-2 dentists	9-12 months
3-4 dentists	6-9 months
5-7 dentists	6 months or less

Note: The Guardian Amalgam Collector may fill up faster than expected, especially after a new vacuum system is installed. A new vacuum system has the capability to remove built up deposits from the lines that would inevitably fill the Amalgam Collector in less time than anticipated.

7. How do I dispose of the collected material properly?

You must arrange for proper disposal of your Amalgam Collector and its contents in accordance with all local, state and/or federal laws and regulations. This includes disinfecting the Amalgam Collector prior to disposal using products registered with the EPA as a disinfectant agent. Shipping non-disinfected materials is a violation of many local, state and/or federal laws.

Air Techniques has made disposal/recycling of the Guardian Amalgam Collector very simple. Our Starter Kit includes in addition to 2 Guardian Amalgam Collectors and Fittings for Installation, all materials needed to send the Collector prepaid to Bethlehem Apparatus (a recycling company who has examined the amalgam collector, and has indicated that they are capable of providing this service), including packing material and a shipping label.

Of course, this offer is for your consideration. You are free to make any other arrangements to fulfill your obligation to properly dispose of your Guardian Amalgam Collector.

8. Why can't I just use the “Red Bag” Services to dispose of the Guardian Amalgam Collector?

The “Red Bag” Services normally incinerate the waste. The incineration will result in the release of mercury vapor into the atmosphere. That is even more harmful for the environment than rinsing the mercury down the drain.

9. Does the Guardian Amalgam Collector have a warranty?

Yes. The Guardian Amalgam Collector is warranted to be free from defects and workmanship for a period of 12 months from the date of installation by authorized Air Techniques Dealer service personnel.

10. How much does the Guardian Amalgam Collector cost?

Air Techniques offers 3 groups of Amalgam Collector Starter Kits. Whether you are interested in just buying the amalgam collector or if you are looking for a complete vacuum system with amalgam separation, Air Techniques has the options you need.