A pump station that’s old doesn’t need to stop operating to become a cause for concern. The pump station might be able to handle the flow of wastewater or stormwater every day but it struggles when the demands are high, require more frequent maintenance or rely on controls which are difficult to maintain. The equipment works, but its original design may not accurately reflect the environment surrounding it.
For municipal governments, developers and facility owners, being aware the distinction is an important element of planning for infrastructure improvements.
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See beyond the equipment Failing
Retrofitting a wastewater lift station needs to start with a review of the entire system and not just the pump which is failing. Engineers should evaluate the wetwell as well as mechanical equipment and electrical components as well as drain piping, controls, current pumping requirements, and control systems.
It is vital to pay attention to the state of the wet well. If the structure of your wet well is intact and in good condition, it could be possible to upgrade it with new equipment, while maintaining its current structure. Costs for construction could be reduced in comparison to building a new station. Retaining the existing infrastructure is only beneficial for if it can support the changes being planned.
Have the areas of service changed?
An old wastewater station may be serving residential, industrial or commercial buildings.
These modifications could alter the flow rate and demands on operations. Lift station rehabilitation requires more than just restoring the original specifications of the equipment. Engineers must evaluate the flow rate and anticipated, the total dynamic head of the equipment operating reliability, as well as the capacity.
It’s not enough just to buy a bigger pump. New equipment should work with the existing system of piping Wet wells, wet wells and electric supply, controls and so on. A mistake in improving one element can create problems elsewhere.
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 service a detention basin may have different flow patterns than those that receive water via storm drains. Any changes to drainage infrastructures like new pavements or the expansion of parking areas, could affect the timing and amount of water that is allowed to flow into the station.
Before recommending a major upgrade of the stormwater system, engineers need to analyze the drainage areas contributing to the stormwater system and peak flows anticipated as well as the capacity of storage available as well as discharge conditions and the pump’s performance.
The data will allow you to determine if the station requires to be rebuilt or what the best option is to modernize equipment.
Make sure you plan your construction prior to when you cut off service
The operations of the station in rehabilitation is frequently neglected. The general rule is that wastewater systems can’t be shut down without a plan to control flow.
In accordance with the space available and project requirements Construction may require temporary bypass pumping, or even installing an alternative infrastructure along the existing station.
The system may be needed to be used in an emergency downpour. The engineering plans must include the installation process as well as temporary operations and equipment integration.
Making the final system easier to use
Romtec Utilities provides site-specific engineering and supply solutions for stormwater and wastewater pumping applications.
The retrofit method evaluates which mechanical, structural electrical, and communication components are able to remain in place and which need replacement. The company gives owners initial designs and budget estimates to assist them in evaluating their project options.
After installation, the testing of startup and commissioning, as well as operator training, and operation and maintenance documentation will ensure that the new station is operating in accordance with the specifications of its design. Operators should be able to maintain and understand the system following the successful rehabilitation.
Make sure you upgrade your computer, not only the system that is old
It’s not necessary to upgrade an old pump station. Some structures may have years of use left even if their electrical and mechanical equipment is in need of modernization. The crucial thing is to decide the things that can be kept safely and economically, while also ensuring that the completed station is able to meet current and future demands.
Owners can make better investment decisions by studying the conditions of operation, structural integrity and hydraulic requirements together.
The aim in upgrading an older system is not just to fix it again. It’s to make sure the new system is ready for the task ahead.