An old pump station does not have to cease operation before it causes problems. Even though it is able to move wastewater and stormwater daily however, the pump station could struggle to cope with the demand for water at its peak. It could also require regular maintenance. It may still work but the initial layout of the device may not be a good reflection of current conditions.
Planning infrastructure improvements is critical for municipal officials, developers and owners of facilities.
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Look Beyond the Equipment That’s Not Working
The retrofitting process of a wastewater liftstation must begin by evaluating the entire system and not only the pump. Engineers must evaluate the wetwell, the mechanical equipment, as well as electrical components. They should also look at discharge piping and current requirements for pumping.
The condition of a well is very important. It is possible, in the event that the structure is sturdy, to keep it and replace outdated equipment. It may be cheaper to construct an entirely new station than if you decided to preserve the current one. It is crucial to maintain the existing infrastructure, even if upgrades can be made.
Have the boundaries of the Service Area Modified?
The water treatment plant constructed years ago can be used to serve increasing numbers of homes, businesses and industrial activities.
These changes may affect the rate of flow and operational requirements. To ensure that lift stations are successfully rehabilitated, it is not enough to return to original specifications. Engineers must evaluate the flow of current and anticipated flows and the overall dynamic head of equipment the operational reliability, as well the capacity.
It’s not enough just to purchase a larger pump. The new equipment should be compatible with the current piping system as well as electrical power supply and control. If you upgrade one component the problem could be in other areas.
The priorities for retrofitting stormwater systems are different
A stormwater pump station retrofit introduces additional considerations because runoff can change dramatically with rainfall and surrounding development. The flow pattern at the station that is serving the detention area could differ from one that is receiving water directly through the storm drain. New pavements, expanded parking areas, or an altered drainage infrastructure can also change the amount and time of runoff that reaches the station.
Before recommending an upgrade to a stormwater system, engineers need to analyze the drainage areas contributing to the stormwater system as well as the expected peak flows as well as the capacity of storage available and discharge conditions, as well as the performance of the pump.
These results help determine if the modernization of equipment is sufficient or whether the station requires more substantial reconstruction.
Plan your construction before you disrupt service
A common issue that is not addressed is how the existing station will operate during rehabilitation. The general rule is that wastewater systems can’t be shut down without a strategy to manage flow.
Based on the available space and project needs, construction may involve temporary bypass pumping or an alternative infrastructure along the existing station.
The system may be needed during an unexpected downpour. The engineering plan must contain the installation process, temporary operations and equipment integration.
Making the final system easier to use
Romtec Utilities is a provider of engineering services for sites supplies and solutions for wastewater and Stormwater Pumping Applications.
The company’s retrofit strategy identifies the mechanical, structural, electrical, and communication elements can remain and which require replacement. The company provides owners with preliminary designs, budget estimates and project alternatives.
After installation, initial testing and commissioning will be conducted and then followed by training for operators and documentation. A successful rehabilitation effort should provide operators with a system that they can manage and comprehend.
Improve the System, Not Just Its Age
It’s not necessary to upgrade an older pump station. It is possible that some structures will continue to be functional for a long time even if the mechanical and electrical systems need modernization. It is important to determine the items that can be preserved safely and economically, while making sure that the final product will meet future and current needs.
Through analyzing operating conditions, the structural strength, hydraulic requirements and construction restrictions together owners can make informed investment choices.
The goal isn’t simply to make a stale station function again. It’s about making sure that the system that has been upgraded is properly prepared for the future work.
