An aging pump station doesn’t have to stop working before it’s in trouble. While it can transport stormwater and wastewater on a daily basis, the pump station might struggle to keep up with demands that are high. It may also require more regular maintenance. It may still work however, the original model of the equipment may not be a good reflection of current conditions.
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Planning infrastructure improvements is critical for municipal officials, developers, and operators of facilities.
Take a look beyond the equipment that’s Failing
A wastewater lift station retrofit should begin with an assessment of the complete system, not simply the pump experiencing problems. Engineers need to evaluate the water well, mechanical components electric components, controls, discharge piping and the requirements for current pumping.
The condition of a wet well is vital. If the structure of your wet well is in good shape then you might be able to replace it with a new equipment while maintaining its existing structure. Costs of construction can be reduced as compared to constructing a new station. Retaining existing infrastructure is only worth it as long as it helps the changes being planned.
Has the Service Area Modified?
The wastewater plant that was constructed years ago can be used to service more homes, businesses, as well as industrial processes.
The changes could alter flow rates and operational demands. To ensure that lift stations are successfully rehabilitated, it is not enough to restore the original specifications. Engineers must evaluate future and planned flows, as well as the equipment’s capacity and performance.
A bigger pump isn’t always the answer. New equipment has to be compatible with the existing system of piping and wet wells, electrical supply, controls, etc. If one component is upgraded, it can cause issues with other components.
Stormwater Retrofits Have Different Priorities
Retrofitting an existing stormwater pumping station could bring additional concerns due to the fact that the runoff can be affected by nearby development and rainfall. Stations serving a detention basin may have different inflow patterns than those that get water from storm drains. The changes in drainage infrastructure, such as new pavements or expanded parking areas, could affect the frequency and quantity of water allowed to flow into the station.
Before recommending an upgrade to a stormwater pump, engineers should examine the drainage areas that contribute to the project, peak flows expected and the storage capacity available as well as discharge conditions and the performance of the pump.
These results can be used to determine whether modernization of equipment is enough or if the station requires more extensive reconstruction.
Plan for the Construction Before Interrupting Service
The most often overlooked concern is how the existing station will function during rehabilitation. The wastewater systems are generally not able to be shut down without plans for continuous flow management.
Construction can include temporary bypass pumps, or the installation of new infrastructure along with an operating station dependent on the available space and the specific requirements of the project.
The system could be necessary for an unexpected rainstorm. A complete engineering plan should cover installation sequencing and temporary operations, as well as equipment integration, and commissioning, not only the replacement of components.
The finished System is more user-friendly
Romtec Utilities provides site-specific engineering and supply solutions for wastewater and stormwater pumping requirements.
The retrofit method evaluates which mechanical, structural electrical and communication components should be left in place, and which will require replacement. The company gives owners initial plans and estimates of budgets to help them evaluate project options.
After installation, testing the startup Commissioning, operator training as well as operation and maintenance documents help ensure that the upgraded station performs in accordance with the specifications of its design. Operators should be able to 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. It’s possible that structures will remain functional for many years, even if mechanical and electrical systems require updating. The most important thing is to figure out what can be safe and effectively preserved while ensuring the station will meet present as well as future needs.
By looking at the overall operational conditions and structural integrity along with the construction and hydraulic requirements limitations, the owners are able to make more informed choices.
It’s more than just getting an old station operational again. It’s about ensuring that the new system is able to cope with the new demands.