The SPEL Puraceptor is a fibreglass full retention unit that carries a 25-year warranty. SPEL units are backed by 100 years of design life which, combined with the unit’s single-piece construction, means durability and longevity. Fibreglass has several qualities that set it apart from concrete. When concrete cures and sets, for instance, air pockets are created, giving the material a porous structure. These pockets can allow liquids to permeate the unit. Unlike concrete, fibreglass is impermeable. It is also chemically inert under most circumstances, meaning fibreglass units will not allow external contaminants to leech or transfer through the wall. The unit’s liquids are contained, and the exterior remains resistant to both corrosion and chemicals. In addition, fibreglass oil and water separator units are produced off-site, skirting any restrictions imposed by activities such as on-site concrete pours. Speed is also a differentiating factor. Fibreglass units are installed faster, and there’s less need for excavations and the accompanying heavy machinery. As a result, there are fewer health and safety requirements. Proprietary concrete systems may come with a warranty, but terms often vary according to site conditions. Short, 12-month warranties from the date of installation are not uncommon. Furthermore, some concrete full retention separator systems may carry a structural sign-off, but there are no ongoing warranties. Full retention separator units are not all made the same, and there are significant variances between quality across providers. When researching and selecting the best unit for your site, look carefully at factors such as warranty commitments and design service life.