A pump station that is old shouldn’t be forced to cease functioning in order to become a concern. Even though it may move wastewater and stormwater daily it could struggle to cope with high demand. It could also require regular maintenance. It could still be functional, but the original design of the equipment may not reflect current conditions.
Image credit: romtecutilities.com
Developers, municipalities, and facility managers, understanding the difference is an essential part of planning improvements to infrastructure.
It is important to look beyond the equipment that is failing
A wastewater lift station retrofit should begin with an assessment of the complete system, not simply the pump experiencing problems. Engineers should assess the wetwell and mechanical equipment and electrical components as well as controls, drainage piping, current pumping requirements, and control systems.
The condition of a wet well is extremely important. It could be possible, when the structure is in good condition that it be kept and replace outdated equipment. It can be less expensive to construct a new station than if you kept the current one. Retaining existing infrastructure is only worth it as long as it helps the planned improvements.
Have the areas of service changed?
The wastewater facility that was constructed years ago can be used to serve many more households, businesses and industrial operations.
These changes may affect the flow rate and operating requirements. Rehabilitating a lift station successfully requires more than restoring the original specifications of the equipment. Engineers must evaluate the flow of current and anticipated flows as well as the dynamic head of the equipment operating reliability, as well as the capacity.
A bigger pump isn’t necessarily the solution. The new equipment must be compatible with the current piping system, electrical supply and controls. If you upgrade one component the problem could be with other parts of the system.
Retrofits to stormwater have different priorities
Retrofitting an existing stormwater pumping station can introduce additional considerations because runoff is influenced by the surrounding development and rainfall. A station that serves an aquisition pond might experience different inflow patterns from one receiving water directly through storm drains. New pavement, expanded parking areas, or altered drainage infrastructure could also alter the amount and time of runoff entering the station.
Before recommending the upgrade of a stormwater pumping station, engineers should examine the drainage area that is contributing to it. They must also look at the anticipated peak flows as well as storage capacity and discharge conditions.
The results will help you determine if the station requires to be reconstructed, or whether modernizing the equipment is enough.
Plan Construction Before Interrupting Service
What the station’s capabilities will be in rehabilitation is a subject which is frequently ignored. It is impossible to stop the wastewater system without arranging for flow management.
Construction may include installing temporary bypass pumps, or relocating infrastructure that is adjacent to the operational station.
The stormwater project also requires a careful planning since the system might be needed in the event of an unexpected rainstorm. The engineering plan must include the installation process as well as temporary operations and equipment integration.
The finished System is more user-friendly
Romtec Utilities offers site-specific engineering solutions and supplies for stormwater pumps and wastewater.
Its retrofit approach evaluates the structural, mechanical, electronic, and communications components will remain, and which ones require replacement. The company also offers initial designs and budgetary estimates to help owners evaluate project options.
After installation, startup tests as well as operator training are important to ensure that the newly upgraded station is functioning in accordance with its specifications. Operators must be able to manage and comprehend the system following the successful rehabilitation.
Improve the System, Not Only Its Age
A pump station that’s older may not need to be completely replaced. There is a chance that certain structures will be functional for years, even if the mechanical or electrical systems require updating. It is crucial to know what is safe and cost-effectively, while ensuring that the station’s finished product is compatible with future and current needs.
When examining operating conditions structural integrity, hydraulic requirements as well as construction constraints owners can make better informed investment decision.
It’s not just about making the old station operational. It’s about ensuring that the new system is able to cope with the new demands.