A disused wastewater liftstation can be located in a township. Pumps are nearing the end of their service life, and controls require modernization and the access hatch needs to be replaced. But the concrete wet well remains robust and solid.
Image credit: romtecutilities.com
Should the entire station be destroyed and rebuilt? Not necessarily. The better question to ask is whether the existing infrastructure will be able to support an efficient pumping system that is in line with current standards without compromising reliability or capacity.
A well-designed pump station retrofit can preserve the infrastructure’s value while replacing parts that are no longer in compliance with operational standards.
Begin with the structure that nobody wants to replace.
The wet well can be one of the most expensive and disruptive components to replace as it is submerged, connected to existing piping and is essential to wastewater collection.
A concrete structure that is still usable could reduce the excavation and construction.
The degradation of the area close to the access hatch could cause problems with this decision. Romtec Utilities identifies wet well hatch replacement as an usual retrofit requirement. Rather than attaching a new hatch to concrete that is deteriorating or replacing the entire top slab may offer a more long-lasting solution. This can increase access to the structure, and extend its lifespan, without needing to rebuild the entire wet well.
A More Powerful Pump Modifies the Engineering
Take a look at a neighborhood that has seen a substantial increase in population since the construction of the lift station. It’s possible that the current pumps are not able to handle increased wastewater flow.
Pumps with more horsepower may be used to improve the pumping station, however the equipment should also be incorporated into the system. Pumps that have higher horsepower might require adjustments to discharge elbows, piping and pipework as well as electronic controls, valves and other parts.
Engineers must also evaluate the requirements of the hydraulic system, including the flow rate and the total dynamic head. The installation of a bigger pump without reviewing these conditions can create problems in operation instead of resolving them. Planning for future expansions in the your initial design process will make it much easier to expand in the future.
Keep Wastewater Moving during Construction
A wastewater pump station retrofit introduces a challenge that ordinary equipment replacement projects may not face: the station may need to remain operational throughout construction.
Even while contractors are working. According to the scope of the project temporary bypass pumps might be needed to maintain services during removal and the installation of existing equipment.
Romtec Utilities addressed this type of issue at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Brunswick, Georgia.
The project involved replacing two old wastewater lift stations, while keeping the operation of the facility. Specific engineering for the site packaging systems, packaged systems and bypass pumping techniques were used to accommodate existing station footprints and operational needs. This illustrates why it is crucial to consider the construction sequence before installing.
When replacing becomes the best alternative
There are many stations that can be repaired. Sewer lift stations could need to be rebuilt for a damaged or insufficiently functioning wet well. structural capacity.
Before making a decision it is essential to think about the structural health of the structure, its compatibility with equipment, its accessibility to construction, service continuity and long-term requirements. Romtec Utilities begins retrofit and replacement projects by determining what elements will remain and which require replacement.
The business will then design site-specific engineering designs along with budget estimates and preliminary designs. Prefabricated parts can help to facilitate installation and help reduce on-site construction.
The Project isn’t Over Until the Pumps Get Started
Modern lift stations need to be operated as a system in one. Before returning the lift station to service, tests of startup and commissioning are a way to make sure that the pumps and controls and other equipment are performing according to approved design.
Operator training and operation and maintenance manuals are equally crucial. Maintenance personnel need to understand the new equipment, operating procedures and documentation before taking responsibility for the station.
A successful retrofit will preserve the infrastructure while still addressing the shortcomings that led to the need for modernization.
Municipalities and property owners have to be aware of the need for more than just immediate repairs. The best projects incorporate the latest equipment in existing structures to ensure that essential service is maintained while construction is underway. Also, they prepare the pumping system to continue running for a long time.