A deteriorating pump station isn’t required to shut down before it becomes a problem. The pump station might be able of moving stormwater or wastewater every day but have trouble when demands are high, require more frequent maintenance or depend on controls that are difficult to maintain. It might still function however, the original layout of the device may not be a reflection of the current situation.
For municipalities, developers, and facility operators, acknowledging the differences is a crucial part of planning infrastructure improvements.
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It is important to look beyond the equipment failing
The retrofit of a wastewater liftstation should begin by looking at the whole system, not only the pump. Engineers should assess the wetwell and mechanical equipment and electrical components as well as drainage pipes, controls and current requirements for pumping and control systems.
The state of a wet well is extremely important. It may be possible, in the event that the structure is sturdy, to keep it and also replace old equipment. It’s less expensive to build an entirely new station than if you were to keep the current one. However, maintaining the existing infrastructure is only a good idea to support the plans for improvements.
Have the areas of service changed?
The water treatment plant constructed years ago can be used to serve more businesses, homes, and industrial activities.
These changes can affect the flow rate as well as operating needs. A successful rehabilitation of a lift station will require more than just restoring original specifications of the equipment. Engineers must evaluate the their current and future flows, the total dynamic head capacity of the equipment, and the reliability of operation.
A bigger pump isn’t necessarily the answer. The new equipment should work with existing pipes and wet well, as well as the electric supply and controls. If one component is upgraded, this can lead to problems with the other components.
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 a detention basin could have different inflow patterns than those receiving water through storm drains. Changes in drainage infrastructure like new pavements or the expansion of parking areas, could affect the timing and amount of water that’s allowed to flow into the station.
Before recommending a stormwater station upgrade, engineers should review the drainage area of the station as well as the expected peak flow storage capacity, discharge conditions, and the current pump performance.
These findings will help to determine the extent to which modernization of equipment is sufficient or if the station needs greater reconstruction.
Plan Construction Before Interrupting Service
The way the station functions when it is being renovated is a matter that is frequently left unanswered. In general, wastewater systems can’t be shut down without a plan for flow management.
Construction could involve installing temporary bypass pumps or even replacing the infrastructure surrounding the operational station.
It is equally important to prepare for stormwater projects since the system may be needed in the event of a sudden rainstorm. A comprehensive engineering plan must include installation sequencing and temporary operations, as well as equipment integration, and commissioning, not just the replacement parts.
Help to Make the System simpler to use
Romtec Utilities is a provider of engineering services for sites supplies and solutions for stormwater and wastewater Pumping Applications.
Retrofitting is a process that evaluates structural, mechanical electronic, and communication components to determine which can be left in place and which need to be replaced. The company also provides preliminary designs and budgetary estimates to help owners analyze project alternatives.
After installation, testing the startup, commissioning and operator training is essential to make sure that the newly renovated station operates as designed. The successful rehabilitation process should leave operators with a system they can maintain and understand.
Upgrade your system, not just its age
An older pump station isn’t a guarantee to be completely replaced. It is possible that some structures will remain functional for years, regardless of whether the mechanical or electrical systems need modernization. The important decision is identifying the things that can be kept safely and economically, while also ensuring that the final station can meet both current and future demands.
By looking at the overall operational conditions and structural integrity in addition to the hydraulic requirements and construction constraints, owners can to make more informed choices.
It’s not just about making an old station functional again. It’s to make sure the system that has been upgraded is properly prepared to handle the challenges ahead.