Liquid waste haulers saw the latest industry innovations spread across the expansive exhibit floor at the Kentucky Exposition Center during the 30th annual Pumper & Cleaner Environmental Expo International Feb. 24-27 in Louisville, Ky. From small accessories like solar restroom lighting to self-contained septage disposal systems, pumpers got the goods on the newest products aimed at running their companies efficiently and building profits for the 2010 busy season.

In all, 493 industry exhibitors showed their wares to 8,784 attendees from 3,921 companies. Here’s a sampling of products displayed at the Expo for the first time:

RESTAURANT GREASE CONTAINER

Envirotub introduced an indoor grease collection container aimed at commercial kitchens with little storage space. The 55-gallon tub measures 18 inches wide by 28 inches long by 32 inches high, and is designed to fit under most two- and three-compartment sinks. It is made of recycled plastic and has a self-closing lid to limit odors and spillage. Contractors can purchase the unit for their restaurant grease trap customers, and wheel it in and out of the kitchen to pump grease when they don’t have adequate access to empty permanent indoor traps. 866/777-4322; www.envirotub.com.

GREASE SPECIALTY VACUUM TRUCK

For companies building a grease trap service specialty, Vacutrux offered the Biomass City Grease Trap Pumper. Built on a Kenworth chassis, the truck features a low profile and lengthened wheelbase. It carries a 2,300-gallon tank and 350-cfm liquid-cooled Wallenstein pump specifically aimed at pulling grease efficiently. The truck also features an enclosed hose reel with 200 feet of 2-inch hose for a long reach and another box that holds a vacuum drum and power head when the hose won’t reach an interior trap. 519/669-1625; www.vacutrux.com.

REMINDER CARD SOFTWARE

Ritam Technologies Inc. released Summit Reminders Plus, a simple program for users who don’t need to track invoicing. The software enables users to catalog customers, jobsite locations and job types, as well as enter notes for history, date of last service and frequency — by day, week or month. The program calculates when a reminder postcard should to be mailed to customers. The software is designed for septic and grease trap service, or anyone who maintains a customer base. 800/662-8471; www.ritam.com.

SMALL SCALE DEWATERING PRESS

BDP Industries showed the Model DDP belt press aimed at small-scale septic service companies that want to create their own disposal solution. Built to be either skid- or trailer-mounted, the unit features a 0.9 meter belt press and uses a polymer flocculating agent to process up to 80-100 gpm of septage and produce 20 percent cake solids. For contractors handling a million gallons per year or more, the unit is designed to eliminate 99 percent of total suspended solids and reduce BOD and COD levels so that effluent can be routed into a city sewer. Cake is land-applied or taken to a landfill. The frame is made of stainless steel. Other components are plastic or rubber to limit corrosion. 518/695-6851; www.bdpindustries.com.

MOVABLE HITCH ADAPTER

Williams Innovations introduced the TeleSwivel hitch adapter. The swivel enables an individual to connect a truck and trailer in a single pass. The adapter features a target zone 25 times larger than a standard ball hitch. The coupler inserts into any 2-inch receiver. To use, the operator backs into position, swivels the hitch, connects and backs up to lock in place. The adapter is Class IV rated for up to 10,000 pounds gross trailer weight, 1,000-pound tongue weight and accepts any size ball. The BX model accepts a three-ball or pintel hitch, while the Pro adapter is rated at 14,000 pounds and comes with a 2 5/16 and 2-inch ball as well as pintel capability. It also features seven inches of drop for easier hookup. 919/794-5484; www.teleswivel.com.

THICKENING REACTOR

NewTech Inc. Dewatering Systems introduced its Thickening Reactor. The unit is made to thicken liquid waste, cutting disposal and transportation cost. The self-contained, sealed stainless steel tank features level sensors and is self-cleaning. The bottom-fill system can process 15,000 to 20,000 gallons per batch, three batches per day. Used in series, waste can be continually thickened without having to shut down the process. The system also can be used to thicken grease trap waste for digester use. A tank camera is available. 800/210-2361; www.dewater91.com.

GRINDER PUMP

Webtrol displayed its 2-hp W202GDS grinder pump. The unit features a hardened stainless steel shredding ring and grinding cutter. The recessed (vortex) impeller design reduces bearing load and prevents clogging. Internal capacitors eliminate the need for external controls. A silicon carbide mechanical seal with secondary lip seal helps prevent leakage, while the oil-filled motor dissipates heat buildup. The pump has a 30-foot cord, 1.25-inch discharge and operates on 230 volts. Featuring a cast iron body with ductile iron base, the pump delivers 5 to 40 gpm with a total dynamic head of 45 to 103 feet. 800/769-7867; www.webtrol.com.

WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM

Presby Environmental introduced the Advanced Enviro-Septic wastewater treatment system designed to remove up to 99 percent of contaminants. The system treats and disperses wastewater in the same footprint, requires no energy, computer controls, media replacement or special maintenance. Available in both NSF-40 Class I certified and non-certified installations, AES can be flexible in design and adaptable to challenging sites. The non-mechanical treatment process begins when warm effluent enters the system and is cooled to ground temperature. As suspended solids separate from the effluent, skimmer tabs further capture grease and suspended solids. Pipe ridges enable effluent to flow uninterrupted and aid in cooling. Bio-Accelerator fabric screens additional solids, developing a biomat that provides treatment and ensures accelerated biomat development. A mat of coarse fibers separates more solids as effluent passes into the geo-textile fabric and grows a protected bacterial surface. Sand wicks liquid from the fabric, enabling air to reach the bacterial surface to break down solids. 800/473-5298; www.presbyenvironmental.com.

TANK INSPECTION CAMERA

Designed for inspecting septic tanks, vaults and enclosures not physically accessible or too hazardous to enter, the Tank Inspection Camera from Remote Vision System features a portable, pole-mounted video camera system. The viewing systems are fully portable and include camera (8 inches x 3 inches x 2 inches), 4- or 5-inch television monitor, 18-foot telescoping pole, 50 to 75 feet of cable, 12-volt battery, power cords and carrying case. The inspection system can operate in an opening as small as 3.5 inches and is designed for overhead as well as underground viewing. Elite Remote Vision System models include a digital video recorder. Data can be downloaded and viewed on a computer or television screen. The Premier model can be coupled with a DVR to record all video viewed by the system. 612/221-6690; www.remotevisionsystem.com.

VACUUM PUMP PACKAGE

Made to bolt to a truck frame, the 500 Eliminator vacuum pump package system from Fruitland Tool & Mfg. is available with a RCF 500 (350 cfm free-air) or RCF 370 pump. The package includes gearbox, secondary and oil catch muffler. It also includes filter and four-way valve, pump mounting bracket, angle or hydraulic drive mounting bracket, moisture trap, pressure and vacuum relief valves, pressure and vacuum gauge and drain valves. 800/663-9003; www.fruitland-mfg.com.

GREASE TRAP VACUUM

Westmoor Ltd. displayed its redesigned 52-gallon Conde ProVac industrial liquid waste pumping system. Available in steel or aluminum, the unit features a 35-cfm ProVac pump. The pump and motor automatically turn off when the tank is full. Powered by a 13.4-amp motor, the system plugs into any 15-amp service. The 24-inch wide and 45-inch high unit fits through any standard door or cargo van opening. Features include hand parking brake, exhaust deodorizer, 25-foot retractable cord reel, hose rack and tool holder. Other features include 120-gpm pump capacity, 2-inch by 10-foot plastiflex suction hose and wand, 6-inch cleanouts top and bottom, pressurized offloading, sight glasses, heavy-duty wheels and front casters. 800/367-0972; www.westmoorltd.com.

REMOTE TANK MONITOR

The GreaseWatch3 tank monitor from Remote Tank Monitors LLC is a wireless, cellular, battery-operated system that senses the sludge level on the bottom of a grease trap or septic tank, temperature, how much floating grease and oil is inside and liquid level. An above-ground, street-level antenna can be embedded in concrete or asphalt for a totally contained unit. Designed primarily for food service providers, the Internet-based system transmits daily data that can be analyzed by the facility manager, assisting in pump scheduling, tank functionality and emergency service notification. 989/928-1806; www.remotetankmonitors.com.

JOBSITE TRAILER

Made for use at remote special events and jobsite locations, the aerodynamic Galileo Site Manager’s Suite RS21 towable RV from JMS (JAG Mobile Solutions) sleeps four, seats eight at two sofas and five at the expandable dining table with flip-down jump seat. The 21-foot model has an exterior width of 91 inches with an additional four inches for the entry door assist handle and an exterior height of 114 inches. The interior is 80 inches high in the main living area, bathroom and walk-in shower. The unit weighs between 4,500 and 4,980 pounds, depending on options. Features include 27-gallon waste and 35-gallon freshwater tank, six-gallon LP water heater, 13,500-Btu propane furnace with thermostat, 30-amp RV connection, 7.5-cubic-foot refrigerator with freezer, counter range, convection/microwave oven, day/night designer blinds, custom cabinetry and cork flooring. 888/709-1999; www.discoverthememories.com.

HYDRAULIC TRAILER

The LiftHaul hydraulic trailer from F.M. Manufacturing Inc. takes the challenge out of loading and unloading restrooms, supplies and equipment. A touch of the switch lowers the rear of the trailer to serve as a drive-on ramp. If needed, the front also can be lowered for ground-level loading. The aluminum trailer has a towing capacity of 2,500 pounds. The steel model can haul 3,500 pounds. Currently available in single axle, a larger tandem axle model will soon be available. 877/889-2246; www.fmmfg.com.

NATURAL RESTROOM DEODORIZER

EverGreen portable restroom deodorizer from J & J Chemical Co. is non-toxic and 100 percent biodegradable. It uses no biocides, bacteria or enzymes while eliminating waste and foul odor when disposing at a dumpsite. Available in concentrate and super concentrate formulas, the deodorizer is offered in quantities of one to 275 gallons, comes in 18 scents and can control odor for up to 14 days. 800/345-3303; www.jjchem.com.

SOLAR RESTROOM LIGHT

A tiny solar panel in the top of the light recharges the battery that powers the Firefly restroom light from Aglow Systems. The motion-activated light lasts up to seven days on one charge. Multiple LED bulbs provide up to 80,000 hours of life. Waterproof for outdoor exposure, the light mounts to the ceiling of the restroom with 3M 4004 Permabond for maintenance-free operation. 865/686-8811; www.aglowsystems.com.

RESTROOM AND SHOWER TRAILER

Comforts of Home Services Inc. displayed its 53-foot combination shower and restroom trailer. Built for cruise ship passengers in the Virgin Islands, the unit features an ADA restroom with hydraulic lift that lowers for easy access, men’s restroom with toilet and seven urinals and 12 single restrooms, including two with showers. The trailer has 1,400-gallon waste and 1,400-gallon freshwater tanks, 20 kW generator, heating and air conditioning units, two LCD TVs, hardwood flooring, hands-free faucets and low-volume, water-saving toilets. 877/382-2935; www.cohsi.com.

WET-WIPE DISPENSER

Handago introduced a self-contained wet-wipe dispenser. The free-standing station features two wipes dispensers, enclosed trash receptacle and storage. Made of weather-resistant polyethylene, the unit has a key lock to secure the door and lid. Two wheels at the front provide easy transport. The station has a 21-inch square base and stands 41 inches tall. It offers advertising panels at the back of the unit. The alcohol-free wet-wipe formula is safe for children’s hands and faces. Made with aloe, Vitamin E and organic compounds, the formula is designed to replenish skin while killing 99.9 percent of germs. 888/408-4188; www.handagoinfo.com.

HEAVY DUTY VACUUM HOSE

New from Kuriyama of America Inc. is the Tigerflex Tiger-TR1 heavy duty, rubber blend, wet and dry vacuum hose. Made with rigid PVC helix for light weight, flexibility and durability, the hose features smooth bore construction that eliminates material buildup, while the convoluted cover design keeps the hose flexible for easier handling and durability. Made to withstand temperatures from -40 degrees to 150 degrees F and working pressures from 13 to 32 psi, the hose is available in 2- to 6-inch I.D. and 2.38- to 6.88-inch O.D. It has a vacuum rating of 24 through 28 Hg, a minimum bending radius of 1.5 to 9.5 inches at 68 degrees F and is available in 20-, 50- and 100-foot lengths. 847/755-0360; www.kuriyama.com.

HIGH RISE CONSTRUCTION UNIT

The convertible-top HIGHRISE unit from Satellite Industries Inc. is a versatile wheeled restroom aimed at commercial renovation or construction projects. The unit was designed to fit through standard doorways and for easy loading onto freight elevators in high-rise buildings. It can be purchased with or without the angled roof section. The roof section can be removed or folded down. The lift kit tilts down to fit through low doorways or in elevators. The sturdy single-wall unit is built with galvanized frame and floor to resist corrosion in challenging jobsite environments. It rolls on 6-inch locking wheels with sealed bearings to prevent wear from dust infiltration. The unit also has integrated grab handles to easily move it around the jobsite. The unit comes in Patriot blue. 800/328-3332; www.satelliteindustries.com.

SEPTIC TREATMENT

Intended to promote consumer education and ensure peace of mind, the Pro-Pump Septic Saver combo kit from Ecological Laboratories is designed to provide a high rate of biological activity and oxidation of waste material, as well as promote the rapid breakdown and removal of waste material in drainfields. The kit includes Pro-Pump/HC and Pro-Pump/SP packaged as a 12-month treatment program. The Septic Saver kit also includes water test tablets to check for toilet and faucet leaks, Septic 101 and Pro-Pump Q&A brochures as well as consumer tips on maintenance and service. Pro-Pump/HC is made for use after pumping to recharge the septic system. The non-toxic, non-pathogenic formula is safe for plants, animals and people. Pro-Pump/SP contains enzymes to break down organic and inorganic solids and is designed as a monthly septic treatment. 800/326-7867; www.propump.com.

HOLDING TANK

The low profile high-density polyethylene Mega Holding tank from Kentucky Tank holds 1,275 gallons and measures 36 inches tall, 81 inches wide and 130 inches long. A 1,600-gallon model measures 84 inches wide, 126 inches long, 42 inches tall and comes in black or natural colors. It can be used as a waste-hauling tank for construction or office trailers or as a holding tank back at the shop, as well as a hauling tank on a flatbed. The tanks can be fitted with an optional locking lid, fittings and level alarm. 888/459-8265; www.kentuckytank.com.

SANITIZER STAND

To answer growing concern over spreading illnesses, T.S.F. Company Inc. introduced the Handy Hand Sanitizer stand in a variety of eye-catching colors. The sanitizer stand is a three-piece rotomolded unit that comes assembled with a top, base and stem. The sealed base with port allows for adding five gallons of water to improve stability and prevent tipovers in heavy winds. The unit carries any combination of two to four sanitizer units of the customer’s choosing. Two sanitizer stands fit inside a standard restroom for convenient transportation. Color offerings include orange and pink for better visibility in a grouping of restrooms at special events. 800/843-9286; www.tuff-jon.com.

ADA-COMPLIANT RESTROOM UNIT

Italian restroom maker Armal introduced a prototype of a new handicap unit, the HN, which complies with the dimension requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The unit has two horizontal and two vertical metal grab handles integrated into the restroom walls. The large floor space allows for 360-degree wheelchair rotation and room for an attendant. The unit has an optional 26-gallon wash station that is easily added and removed. Additional features include a three-roll paper holder with built-in shelf, a lowered 53-gallon tank for disabled users and optional bicycle-style wheels that can be easily added to move the unit. The HN weighs 253 pounds and is 63 inches wide, 83 inches deep and 90 inches high. 770/491-6410; www.armal.biz.

SANITIZER STATION

PolyPortables Inc. unveiled the Sanitizer Station, a stand-alone ADA-compliant sanitizer dispenser to accompany portable restrooms at construction sites and special events. The heavy-duty stand is made of gray extruded plastic panels that are bolted together, creating supply storage in the center post. A flip-top cover protects dispensers from the elements and allows access to the storage area. The unit weighs 44 pounds, has an 18- by 18-inch base and measures 53 inches tall. The unit comes with either gel or alcohol-based atomizing dispensers and refills, or can be purchased without dispensers. One of the four dispenser stations is at wheelchair height. The base of the unit can be tied down for added stability at the jobsite. 800/241-7951; www.polyportables.com.

MACERATOR PUMP FOR ADA RESTROOM TRAILER

Ameri-Can Engineering updates its line of ADA-compliant restroom trailers with the Sani-Lav macerator pump. The sealed electric pump assembly with stainless steel blades conveys wastewater from a ground-hugging ADA section of restroom trailers into a central holding tank, eliminating the need for a small waste tank dedicated to the ADA unit. Black- and greywater are collected from the lowered unit and the 3/4-hp pump can move the effluent as far as 300 feet out and 30 feet up. The Sani-Lav pump can also be used to create ADA-compliant shower trailer units. 574/892-5151; www.ameri-can.com.

COMPACT SANITIZER DISPENSER

PolyJohn Enterprises Corp. introduced a smaller companion to its SaniStand sanitizer station, the Hand Sanitizer. The unit uses back-to-back touch-free foaming dispensers or can be outfitted for use with sanitary wipe dispensers. Greater portability was a goal of the new sanitizer stand — several stands can be shipped inside one standard restroom unit. The top and bottom sections separate, and water or sand can be added to the base for greater stability. The unit also has a display area for advertising. 800/292-1305; www.polyjohn.com.

ADA RESTROOM TRAILER

Rich Restrooms introduced the Model 715 restroom trailer, which meets ADA wheelchair-accessibility requirements. After transport to a job, the trailer is lowered to the ground, providing easy accessibility with a wheelchair ramp for one large restroom station, and two non-ADA restrooms. The trailer has a 345-gallon holding tank and a mechanical room for ramp storage. The trailer is part of the company’s Everest line. The ADA station’s stool, sink and floor plan are designed for the greatest accessibility. 260/593-2279; www.richrestrooms.com.

LANDSCAPE LIDS

Orenco introduced its watertight and durable fiberglass Landscape Lids. The decorative lids can support a 2,500-pound wheel load. Designed to provide a secure covering for septic system risers, the lids come with stainless steel hex-drive screws and hex key. Tamper-proof bolts are available for greater security. The lids come in grass, river rock and bark mulch patterns in 18-, 24- and 30-inch diameters to fit AX20 and AX100 pods. 800/348-9843; www.orenco.com.

DRAINFIELD RESTORATIVE

RCS II Inc. displayed its Septic Drainer drainfield soil restorative. The formula is designed to break the bond that can form between soil and sodium, improving perkability and drainage, minimizing the need for septic pumping, eliminating septic backup and restoring septic systems without digging. 518/812-0000; www.septicdrainer.com.