How do A/C toilets work?

[Chunks]

Who of you people have been those aircraft where when you flush the toilet a trickle of water comes out then you get a massive vaccum sucking the waste away? How does it work? How much waste can a B744 carry? How much fresh water can a B744 carry?

Thanks

[Tapster]

I refer you to a track from a Billy Connoly LP from years ago. The Jobbie Wheecha:D :D

[Hartington]

You could start here
http://www.howstuffworks.com/question314.htm
Then try
http://www.boeing.com/assocproducts/aircompat/acaps/7474sec5.pdf and once it has downloaded try searching for "lavatory".

[Cornish Jack]

Aircraft toilets are quite complex bits of kit. The 'trickle of water' is, in fact, a measured shot of chemical liquid to flush and sanitise the bowl and the suction is provided by either an electrical pump or the aircraft air system. Additionally there is a macerator in the base of the bowl to dispose of waste matter and the whole lot is then stored in waste tanks - normally one to each toilet. I cannot find any quoted quantities for the waste tanks but they are monitored for contents and will be placarded as unserviceable if they indicate full.
As regards potable water supplies, the 744 has three water tanks, just to the rear of the forward cargo compartment, each carrying 108 gallons of water (when full). This supply is pressurised (electric motor or air system again) and heated.
The toilet tanks are emptied on turn arounds by the 'honey cart' operatives (and a much sought-after job this is, too !! ;) )