Vertical Outlet Vari-level drains - Everything you need to know

Vertical Outlet Vari-level Drains - Product Description, Product Features, Scope of Use, Benefits, Limitations on Use, Installation Requirements, Maintenance & Prevention Measures, Statement of Building Code Compliance, In-Service History, Other Performance Attributes - Waterflow Testing, Load Testing, Watermark Certification, Warranty, Sustainability.

Product Description

The SPS Vertical Outlet Vari-level drains offer high-quality drainage solutions suitable for both commercial and residential applications.

Featuring durable cast-iron bodies and stainless steel or bronze square and round grates, these drains provide a robust and long-lasting solution for various architectural and engineering needs.

The integrated membrane clamp collar, which is reversible for a greater height adjustment range, enables the grate to be fitted precisely to accommodate varying surface levels. This is especially valuable in areas where final surface heights may differ due to tiling, screeding, or other levelling and finishing processes.

A relatively wide diameter flange and ‘weep hole’ slots provide an additional safeguard against water entering the floor structure around the drain area due to any potential failures in the surface materials. 

The drains accommodate various pipe sizes and materials, including PVC, HDPE, and copper, thanks to their push-in and coupling connection options.

This sturdy drain, combined with its adaptable mechanism and visually appealing grate design, allows for precise installation, making it suitable for a broad range of building locations and surfaces.

Product Features

• Height-adjustable grate assembly
• Round & Square Grates
• Push-in and optional Coupling Connection
• Models load tested to Class C per AS3996-2006.
• Hinged grate options.
• Independently Flow Rate Tested – certain models.
• 304 & 316 grade stainless grates as standard.
• Bronze, linished bronze & linished nickel bronze, Galvanised ductile iron by special order.
• Aesthetically pleasing polished, linished and satin grate finishes.
• High-heel-friendly grate pattern — 5mm – 5.5mm.
• Square hole grate patterns available by special order.
• 100mm & 150 mm outlets are compatible with PVC, HDPE, and Copper Pipe.
• Strong surface-protected cast iron construction bodies.
• Use of single or double flange truflo lower bodies
• 3 - 4  x weep hole slots
• Height adjustable range - over all models 25mm-75mm
• High Hydraulic Capacity. 
• Watermark Certification AT 55200:040.

Scope of Use

The SPS Vari-level floor drains provide premium drainage solutions suitable for both interior and exterior environments, including commercial, industrial, and residential settings. Their key features include:

Functionality: These drains offer efficient drainage for both surface and foul water, ensuring watertight, durable, and maintainable systems that protect buildings and occupants from water-related risks. They are designed to accommodate high water flow capacity and resist chemicals and heavy loads, making them appropriate for demanding environments.

Independently tested Water flow rate test results for certain SPS Floor Drains and Vari-level floor drains are available from the Metabronze website.   

Design and Construction: The drain bodies are constructed from durable, surface-coated cast iron. The grates are made from 304 and 316 grades of stainless steel, galvanised ductile iron, bronze, linished bronze, and linished nickel bronze, providing strong and aesthetically pleasing options.

200mm and 300mm square grate options possess load-bearing qualities classified as Class C according to AS3996-2006.

Grates are available in round and square designs, featuring high-heel-friendly patterns with gaps ranging from 5mm to 5.5mm, making them suitable for pedestrian precincts.

Hinged square grates provide for easy access for inspection and maintenance.

Flexibility is afforded by "O" ring seals that secure the drain to push-in connections for PVC, HDPE, and copper pipes.

The Vari-Level design distinguishes itself from the standard SPS Floor Drain. Featuring an integrated membrane clamp collar that can be reversed for added height, this ingenious and practical design allows for adjustable heights of the grate and frame, facilitating installation and alignment with various floor levels and finishes.

This flexibility caters to diverse floor construction requirements, enabling designers and installers to ensure optimal drainage performance from the floor.

The design of the flange and clamp collar connection, which includes three weep hole slots, enhances the waterproofing qualities of the floor membrane system.  

Typical Locations for Use: SPS Vari-level floor drains are commonly installed in housing developments, public facilities, hotels, restaurants, schools, retail spaces, podium areas, factories, and processing plants.

They are suitable for a variety of flooring types, including paved surfaces, cement toppings, epoxy, and tiled floors.

Benefits:

• Flexibility in installation due to adjustable height components.
• Compatibility with multiple pipe types (PVC, HDPE, copper) through different seals and adaptors.
• Strong, durable construction suitable for heavy traffic and chemical exposure.
• Compliance with Australian and New Zealand building codes (e.g., NZBC Clauses G13 and E1, AS/NZ 3500.2.2), ensuring reliable performance and safety13.
• Variety of grate styles and load ratings to match aesthetic and functional needs.
• Ease of maintenance with hinged grates and secure connections.

In summary, SPS Vari-level floor drains incorporate durable materials, adjustable installation features, and compliance with stringent building codes, delivering versatile, robust, and efficient drainage solutions for a wide array of commercial, industrial, and residential applications. Their design flexibility and solid construction provide significant advantages in terms of ease of installation, durability, and long-term performance.

Limitations on Use

• The drain must be precisely matched to the projected water volume. Under-sizing can cause overflow, while oversizing leads to inefficiency.
• Installation requires specific minimum heights, e.g, 17mm–25mm, depending on the model, which may not be feasible in shallow floor constructions. A standard SPS Floor Drain may be more suitable in this situation.
• Designed for specific environments, performance may be compromised if used in unapproved contexts.
• Lack of cleaning can cause issues like odours or clogging.

Installation requirements for the SPS Vertical Outlet Vari-Level drain are:

• Compatible Pipework: Ensure the drain outlet size (commonly 65mm, 80mm, 100mm, or 150mm) matches the connected pipework, such as PVC, HDPE, or copper pipes.
• Select a drain that is compatible with the expected environment, considering factors such as internal or external location, pedestrian and vehicle traffic, and the projected volume of water present on the floor or podium area at any given time. Other considerations include aesthetic appeal and the amount of fall, if any.
• Height Adjustment: Use the adjustable (vari-level) grate and frame assembly to set the finished surface level flush with the surrounding flooring or membrane. Observe the minimum installation height for the specific model
• Coupling and Connection: Where required, use the appropriate coupling (e.g., E100 or E150 to connect the drain body to the drainage pipe.
• Waterproofing and Membrane Integration: For installations on membrane surfaces, ensure the drain’s membrane clamp ring is correctly integrated with the waterproofing system to prevent leaks.
• Load Rating: Select the correct grate and body combination to meet anticipated load requirements (e.g., pedestrian or vehicular traffic).
• Ensure compliance with all applicable Building and Plumbing Standards
• Reference the SPS product datasheet.

Maintenance & Prevention Measures

Maintenance and Prevention Measures for SPS Vertical Outlet Vari-Level Drain

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the grate and outlet for debris, blockages, or signs of corrosion to maintain optimal drainage performance.
• Routine Cleaning: Establish a cleaning schedule to remove accumulated debris, especially in high-use or outdoor environments, to prevent clogging.
• Height and Position Verification: Confirm that the drain remains set at the correct height relative to the finished floor level, especially after floor resurfacing or repairs.
• Seal and Flange Inspection: Check the integrity of seals and leak-control flanges to prevent sub-surface water ingress and ensure proper drainage.
• Pipe Connection Check: Inspect connections to PVC, HDPE, or copper pipes for leaks or deterioration, and ensure couplings remain securely in place.
• Grate Security: Verify that the grate is securely fastened and undamaged to prevent unauthorised removal and maintain safety.
• Surface Water Management: Ensure the surrounding area is free from obstructions that could divert water away from the drain, reducing the risk of pooling or overflow.
• Prompt Issue Resolution: Address any signs of slow drainage or unpleasant odours immediately, as these may indicate developing blockages or plumbing issues.

Statement of Building Code Compliance

SPS floor drains meet the mandatory objectives and performance criteria of NZBC Clauses G13 and E1 by providing durable, watertight, and maintainable drainage solutions that protect buildings and occupants from the risks associated with foul and surface water.

SPS Drain and Cleanout Products are developed for the Plumbing and Drainage Industry and to the Australia/New Zealand Standard AS/NZ 3500.2.2

SPS floor drains are designed and manufactured to comply with the relevant requirements of the New Zealand Building Code, specifically Clauses G13 (Foul Water) and E1 (Surface Water).

NZBC Clause G13: Foul Water

• Accessible Maintenance: SPS drains are designed for easy access, allowing for regular maintenance and cleaning, which meets the requirement for accessible, durable, and safe points within foul water drainage systems.
• Durable Materials: The use of robust cast iron bodies and 316 stainless steel or bronze grates ensures long-term durability and resistance to corrosion, as required for sanitary plumbing systems.
• Water Trap Compatibility: The drains are compatible with water traps and can be fitted with cleaning eyes, supporting the requirement to prevent foul air from entering buildings and allowing for maintenance access.
• Pipe Compatibility: SPS drains can connect to PVC, HDPE, and copper pipes, meeting NZBC requirements for approved pipe and fitting materials.
• Reliable Performance: The design supports effective foul water conveyance, minimising the risk of blockages and ensuring system reliability.

NZBC Clause E1: Surface Water

• Efficient Surface Water Disposal: SPS vertical outlet vari-level drains are engineered to efficiently collect and convey surface water from floors, decks, and other surfaces to an appropriate outfall, thus protecting people and property from the adverse effects of surface water.
• Adjustable Height: The vari-level feature allows the grate assembly to be set flush with the finished surface, ensuring effective surface water capture and compliance with E1’s requirements for proper sitework and drainage.
• Blockage Prevention: The design (including grates and optional strainers) help prevent debris entry, reducing the likelihood of blockages in the drainage system as required by E1.3.3(b).
• Leakage Protection: Proper integration with waterproofing membranes and secure pipe connections helps avoid leakage and groundwater entry, aligning with E1.3.3(c).
• Watermark Certification: Many SPS drains are Watermark certified, indicating compliance with relevant standards for surface water drainage products.

In-Service History

SPS has a proven track record of supplying Floor Drains to both commercial and residential markets for over 47 years, establishing itself as a trusted leader in drainage solutions. 

While SPS continually innovates and enhances its product lines, the core range of Floor Drain products has been a mainstay in the market for more than three decades, reflecting their reliability, enduring performance, and strong market acceptance.

SPS Vertical Outlet Vari-level Floor Drains have been installed on the following notable projects:

Auckland CRL Train Stations       Metro Building Christchurch      The Pullman

Holiday Inn Express Hotel – Auckland CBD        

Other Performance Attributes

Waterflow Testing:

• Several SPS Vertical Outlet Vari-level drains have been independently Water Flow Rate Tested using recognised AHSCA Testing procedures, these being;
• R100S4/C90. R130S4/90, Q130S4/C90
• For similar test results, see the results gained from the SPS Floor Drains, which share the same or similar grates and upper body construction.    

Load Testing:

• The SPS Q200S/C, Q200S4/C, Q200N/C, Q200G/C series with Heavy Duty Flat Grates are load tested to Class C of AS3996-2006. 
• The Q200S/C100, Q200S/C150, Q200S4/C100, Q200S/C150 series with Heavy Duty Flat Grates are load tested to Class C of AS3996-2006. 
• The Q225S/C100, Q225S4/150, Q225N/C100, Q225N/C150 series with Heavy Duty Flat Grates are load tested to Class C of AS3996-2006. 
• The R225S/C100, R225S4/150, R225N/C100, R225N/C150 series with Heavy Duty Flat Grates are load tested to Class C of AS3996-2006. 
• The R300/S/C100, R300S/C150, R300D/C100, R300D/C150 series with Heavy Duty Flat Grates are load tested to Class C of AS3996-2006. 
• The SPS 275mm round Push-in Cleanout with a 225mm outlet is also Load-rated to Class D of AS3996-2006. 

Watermark Certification

SPS Products have achieved the Watermark Certificate of Conformity. 

• Certification Specification: WMTS 040:2022 Waste pipe connection outlets and gratings, separate or integral
• Product Type: Waste Fittings
• Product Use: Sanitary Drainage
• Brand: SPS  
• Issue Date: 1st April 2025
• Initial Issue Date: 28th August 2009
• Expiry Date: 27th June 2029
• Granted by: Pro-Switch Pty Ltd
• Certificate No.: 20052

Warranty

Specialty Plumbing Supplies Pty Ltd (SPS) warrants its products against defective components and faulty workmanship for a period of five years. Any defect in materials or workmanship occurring within five years from the date of purchase, subject to conditions, will be rectified free of charge. 

Metabronze Sustainability

Metabronze’s commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through the careful selection of materials for its drainage products, primarily bronze, stainless steel, aluminium, and cast iron. These high-quality metals are engineered for exceptional longevity-often outlasting the buildings in which they are installed-and are specifically chosen for their ability to withstand harsh climatic conditions with minimal maintenance.

At the end of their functional or economic life, Metabronze drains can be easily recycled or repurposed, significantly reducing construction waste and supporting circular economy principles. Over 97% of Metabronze’s roof and floor drain products are manufactured from materials that can be reused or recycled, providing a sustainable drainage solution that aligns with contemporary environmental and business objectives.

By specifying bronze, stainless steel, aluminium, and cast iron, Metabronze enables clients to achieve both long-term performance and environmental targets, ensuring that drainage systems provide value throughout their lifecycle and contribute to broader sustainability goals.

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