An old pump station does not have to cease operation before it becomes a problem. The pump station might be able of moving water or wastewater throughout the day but have trouble when demand is high, need frequent maintenance, or rely on control systems that are hard to maintain. While the equipment is operating, its original design might not be adequate for the current climate.
The importance of recognizing this difference is for municipal officials, developers and facility managers when planning upgrades to infrastructure.
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Look Beyond the Equipment That’s Failing
Retrofitting the wastewater lift station should start with an examination of the entire system, not just the pump with issues. Engineers must evaluate the mechanical and wetwell components as well as electrical components, control systems, drainage pipes as well as current pumping requirements and control systems.
It is important to observe the condition of the wet well. If its structure is solid and in good condition, it could be feasible to keep it in place when replacing equipment that is no longer in use. This can reduce construction requirements when compared to building a completely new station. It is essential to preserve existing infrastructure in case improvements can be made.
The service area has changed.
An old wastewater treatment plant may be serving homes, industrial buildings or commercial properties.
These changes may affect the flow rate and operating needs. In order for lift stations to be successful in rehabilitation, it’s not enough to restore the original specifications. Engineers must evaluate current and anticipated flow rates as well as the equipment’s capacity and dependability.
It’s more than enough to buy a bigger pump. New equipment must work with existing pipes wet well, electric supply and controls. If one component is improved the result could be problems with other parts.
The criteria for stormwater retrofits for priority are different
A stormwater pump station retrofit introduces additional considerations because runoff can change dramatically with rainfall and surrounding development. Stations that are part of detention basins may have different flow patterns than those that are receiving water from storm drains. The amount of runoff that reaches the station could be affected by new pavements, increased parking, or a change in drainage infrastructure.
Before recommending an upgrade to a stormwater pumping station, engineers should examine the drainage area in which they are contributing. They should also consider the potential peak flows storage capacity, discharge conditions.
These findings can help determine whether the modernization of equipment is sufficient or whether the station requires greater reconstruction.
Design the Construction Before Interrupting Service
What the station’s capabilities will be during rehabilitation is a question which is frequently ignored. It is impossible to shut down wastewater systems without making arrangements for flow management.
The construction could include temporary bypass pumps or the installation of replacement infrastructure along with an operating station, in accordance with the space available and the needs of the project.
It is also essential to think ahead about stormwater projects as the system may be needed during rainstorms that are not expected. A plan for engineering that is thorough should include installation sequencing, temporary operations system integration, commissioning and equipment integration and not just replacing components.
The final System is simpler to operate
Romtec Utilities is a provider of engineering services for sites as well as supply and solutions for Stormwater and wastewater Pumping Applications.
Retrofitting is a method that evaluates structural, mechanical, electronic, and communication components to determine which are best left and which must be replaced. The company gives owners initial plans and estimates of budgets for them to evaluate their the options for their project.
After installation, initial testing and commissioning is conducted and then followed by training for operators and documentation. Operators need to be able maintain and understand the system following the successful rehabilitation.
Upgrade the System, Not Just Its Age
It’s not essential to replace an old pump station. Some structures may have years of use left even if their mechanical and electrical equipment is in need of modernization. The key is to determine what is safe and economically while ensuring that the constructed station meets current and future requirements.
When they look at the overall operational conditions and structural integrity along with the hydraulic requirements and construction restrictions, owners are able to make more informed choices.
It’s not just about trying to make an old station work again. To make sure that the station is up to date for the future, it’s important to upgrade the station.
