A pump station that is aging can be shut down before it causes problems. While it can move wastewater and stormwater daily it could struggle to keep up with high demand. It could also require regular maintenance. The equipment is functional, but the design it was originally designed for may no longer reflect the conditions surrounding it.
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For municipalities, developers, and facility owners, being aware that difference is an important aspect of preparing infrastructure improvements.
It is important to look beyond the equipment 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 mechanical and wetwell components along with electrical components, controls, drainage piping as well as the current requirements for pumping and control systems.
The condition of a wet well is extremely important. If the structure of the wet well is in good shape it may be possible to change it out with a new equipment while maintaining its existing structure. This may reduce the need for construction in comparison to building a new station. However, maintaining existing infrastructure only makes sense when it can support the enhancements that are planned.
Has the service area changed?
An old wastewater station may serve additional residential, industrial or commercial properties.
These changes can affect the flow rate as well as operating needs. Successful lift station rehabilitation therefore will require more than just restoring original equipment specifications. Engineers need to evaluate the current and expected flows in the system, the dynamic head of equipment as well as operational reliability and the capacity.
It’s not enough to just purchase a bigger pump. New equipment has to be compatible with the existing piping system, wet wells, electrical supply, controls, etc. If one component is upgraded, this can lead to issues with other components.
Stormwater retrofits have different priorities
Retrofitting an existing stormwater pumping station could bring additional concerns due to the fact that runoff is influenced by the surrounding development and rain. The pattern of inflow at the station that is serving the detention area could be different than if it receives water directly through the storm drain. Any changes to drainage infrastructures, such as new pavements or the expansion of parking spaces, could alter the frequency and quantity of water that’s capable of reaching the station.
Before recommending an upgrade of a stormwater pumping station engineers should look at the drainage area in which they are contributing. They should also consider the potential peak flows storage capacity, discharge conditions.
These results can help determine if equipment modernization is enough or if a station is in need of more extensive reconstruction.
Plan Construction Before Interrupting Service
One of the most frequently ignored issues is how the current station will function during the rehabilitation. In general, wastewater systems can’t be closed without a plan to control flow.
Construction could involve temporary bypass pumps as well as the installation of a replacement infrastructure with an operating station depending on the space available and the specific requirements of the project.
Stormwater projects also require a careful planning as the system might be required during unplanned rain. The engineering plans must include the sequence of installation along with temporary operations, equipment and integration.
Enhance the finished System simpler to use
Romtec Utilities provides site-specific engineering and supply solutions for wastewater and stormwater pumping requirements.
Retrofitting is a technique that evaluates structural, mechanical electronic, and communication components to determine which can be kept and which should be replaced. The company offers owners preliminary plans and estimates for budgets to assist them in evaluating their the options for their project.
After installation, the testing of 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 should leave operators with a system they are able to manage and comprehend.
Improve the System, Not Only Its Age
A pump station that’s older may not have to be completely replaced. Certain structures could have years of useful service remaining, even when their mechanical and electrical equipment needs modernization. It is crucial to know the items that can be preserved safely and cost-effectively, while ensuring that the station’s finished product is in line with current and future demands.
Through analyzing the general working conditions and structural integrity and the construction requirements and hydraulic limitations, the owners are able to make more informed choices.
It’s not about just making an old station functional again. In order to ensure that the system is up to date for the future, it’s important to upgrade the station.