A pump station that is old doesn’t need to stop functioning in order to be a problem. It could still transport the water and wastewater daily but struggle to meet peak demand, require increasingly frequent maintenance or rely on controls that are becoming difficult to manage. It could still be functional however the original layout of the device may not be a reflection of the current situation.
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Planning infrastructure improvements is critical for municipal officials, developers and managers of facilities.
The Equipment that Fails isn’t the sole issue
A wastewater lift station retrofit should begin with an assessment of the complete system, not simply the pump experiencing problems. Engineers should evaluate the wetwell and mechanical components and electrical components as well as drain piping, controls, current pumping requirements, and control systems.
The condition of the wet well is particularly important. If the structure of the well is sound and in good condition, it could be possible to upgrade it with new equipment while keeping the existing structure. This will reduce the amount of construction needed as compared to the construction of a new station. Retaining existing infrastructure only makes sense for if it can support the proposed improvements.
Have the boundaries of the Service Area Modified?
A wastewater facility that was constructed many years ago can now provide more commercial and residential buildings, homes, or industrial operations.
These modifications could affect flow rates and operational requirements. Lift station rehabilitation requires more than simply restoring the original specifications for the equipment. Engineers should assess current and anticipated flow rates, total dynamic head capacity of the equipment, and the reliability of operation.
It’s more than enough to purchase a larger pump. The new machine must be compatible with the existing piping electrical supply, controls and other components. If you improve one component the problem could be in other areas.
Stormwater retrofits have different priorities
Retrofitting a stormwater pump station involves additional considerations since runoff patterns can alter dramatically with rainfall and surrounding development. Stations that are part of a detention basin could have different inflow patterns than those that are receiving water from storm drains. New pavement, expanded parking areas, or an altered drainage infrastructure could alter the quantity and frequency of runoff reaching the station.
Before recommending a station for stormwater upgrade, engineers should review the drainage area that is contributing to the project and the expected peak flows storage capacity, discharge conditions, and current pump performance.
These results can be used to determine whether equipment modernization will be sufficient or if the station requires more extensive reconstruction.
Design for the Construction Before Interrupting Service
The way the station functions in rehabilitation is a subject that is often overlooked. In general, wastewater systems can’t be shut down without a plan to manage flow.
Construction could involve installing temporary bypass pumps, or even replacing the infrastructure surrounding the operational station.
It is also important to be prepared for stormwater projects as the system could be required during rainstorms that are not expected. A comprehensive engineering plan should include installation sequencing, temporary operations, integration of equipment and commissioning, not just the replacement of components.
Make the Finished System Easier to Operate
Romtec Utilities provides site-specific engineering and supply solutions for wastewater and stormwater pumping needs.
The retrofit approach will determine which electrical, structural mechanical, and communication elements will be preserved and which require replacement. The company also provides preliminary plans and estimates for budgets to help owners analyze project possibilities.
Following installation, tests for startup and commissioning takes place, followed by operator training and documentation. A successful rehabilitation project should provide operators with an easy-to-maintain system.
Upgrade Your System and Not Just its Age
It’s not necessary to replace an old pump station. There is a chance that certain structures will be functional for a long time regardless of whether the mechanical or electrical systems require modernization. The important decision is identifying the things that can be kept safely and economically while ensuring the finished station meets present and future demands.
Through analyzing the general operating conditions and structural integrity and the construction and hydraulic requirements constraints, owners can to make more informed decisions.
The objective of upgrading an old station is not to make it functional again. It’s about ensuring that the upgraded system is prepared to handle the challenges ahead.