A deteriorating pump station does not have to cease operation before it’s a problem. The pump station may be able to transport wastewater or stormwater every day but it struggles when the demand is high, require more frequent maintenance or rely on controls that are challenging to maintain. The equipment is functional, but its original design might not accurately reflect the environment around it.
For municipalities, developers, and facility operators, recognizing that difference is an important aspect of preparing infrastructure improvements.
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See beyond the equipment Broken
The retrofitting process of a wastewater liftstation should begin by looking at the entire system, and not only the pump. Engineers must assess the wetwell, the mechanical equipment, as well as electrical parts. They should also think about discharge pipes as well as current pumping needs.
The condition of a well is very important. It might be possible in the event that the structure is sturdy in its current condition, to maintain it and then replace the outdated equipment. It may be cheaper to build an entirely new station than if you were to keep the existing one. However, the idea of preserving the existing infrastructure is only a good idea to support the enhancements that are planned.
Have the boundaries of the Service Area changed?
A water treatment plant built a few many years ago can now provide more homes, commercial buildings or industrial activities.
The changes could have an impact on flows and operational demands. Rehabilitating a lift station is more than just restoring the original specifications for equipment. Engineers should evaluate the future and planned flows as well as the equipment’s capacity and performance.
The answer may not be an increase in the size of the pump. The new pump must be compatible with the existing pipes as well as electrical power supply and control. In the event that one component is improved, it can lead to problems in other components.
Stormwater retrofits are a different matter.
Retrofitting a stormwater pumping station brings additional considerations, as runoff patterns may be affected by rainfall as well as nearby development. Stations serving the detention basin might have different flow patterns than those that get water from storm drains. Changes in drainage infrastructure, such as new pavement or larger parking lots, may affect the frequency and quantity of water available to the station.
Before recommending a stormwater station upgrade, engineers should review the contributing drainage area, expected peak flows, storage capacity, discharge conditions, and existing pump performance.
These findings can help determine whether modernization of equipment is enough or whether the station requires larger reconstruction.
Plan Construction Before Interrupting Service
How the station will operate when it is being renovated is a matter which is frequently ignored. It is not possible to remove wastewater systems from operation without arranging for flow management.
Construction could involve installing temporary bypass pumps or relocating infrastructure that is adjacent to the operational station.
It is also essential to think ahead about stormwater projects, as the system may be needed during rainstorms that are not expected. A complete engineering plan should include installation sequencing and temporary operations, as well as installation integration, and commissioning. Not just replacement components.
The final System is more user-friendly
Romtec Utilities is a provider of engineering services for sites as well as supply and solutions for wastewater and Stormwater Pumping Applications.
The company’s retrofit strategy identifies the structural, mechanical, electrical, and communication components should be left in place, and which will require replacement. The company provides owners with preliminary plans and estimates of budgets to assist them in evaluating their possible options for the project.
Following installation, tests for startup, commissioning, operator training, and operation and maintenance records help to ensure that the station has been upgraded in accordance with the specifications of its design. The successful rehabilitation process will provide the operator with a system they can maintain and understand.
Upgrade Your System and Not Limit Its Upgrades to it’s Age
A pump station that’s older doesn’t mean it’s a perfect candidate for replacement. It is possible that some structures will continue to be operational for a long time, even if mechanical and electrical systems require updating. It is crucial to know the things that can be maintained safely and economically, while still making sure the finished product meets current and future needs.
Through analyzing the general structure and operating conditions in addition to the construction requirements and hydraulic constraints, owners can to make better-informed decisions.
The purpose of upgrading an old system is not to just make it function again. To make sure the station is ready for any future projects it’s essential to improve the station.