A pump station that’s not in good condition doesn’t necessarily need to stop functioning in order to become a concern. The pump station might be able to move stormwater or wastewater every day however, it may struggle when demand is high, need more frequent maintenance or rely on control systems that are hard to maintain. The equipment is functional, but the design it was originally designed for may not be able to reflect the changing conditions surrounding it.
The importance of recognizing this difference is for developers, municipalities and facility owners when preparing upgrades to infrastructure.
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You should look past the equipment inoperable
A retrofit of a wastewater pump station must begin with an evaluation of the complete system, not just the pump that is experiencing problems. Engineers must evaluate the wetwell, mechanical equipment, and electrical components. They should also consider discharge piping and the needs of current pumping.
It is crucial to observe the state of the wet well. If the wet well’s structure is still sound, you may be able to upgrade it with new equipment while keeping the existing structure. It can be less expensive to build a new station than you were to keep the existing one. Retaining existing infrastructure is only worthwhile if it supports the proposed improvements.
The service area has changed.
An old wastewater station may serve additional houses, industrial buildings, or commercial buildings.
These modifications could influence flow rates and operational demands. Successful lift station rehabilitation therefore requires more than restoring the original equipment specifications. Engineers should assess future and planned flows, head dynamics capacity of equipment, as well as the operational reliability.
The answer isn’t always one that is bigger. The new equipment should be compatible with the current piping system electrical supply, controls and other components. If you make improvements to one part you can create problems with other parts of the system.
Stormwater Retrofits Have Different Priorities
Retrofitting an existing stormwater pumping station could result in additional challenges due to the fact that runoff is affected by surrounding development and rainfall. Stations that service a detention basin may differ in their flow patterns from those receiving water through storm drains. A new asphalt surface, increased parking spaces, or a change in drainage infrastructure can also change the amount and timing of runoff entering the station.
Before recommending a stormwater station upgrade, engineers must review the drainage area that is contributing to the project the anticipated peak flows storage capacity, discharge conditions, and the current pump performance.
The data will allow you to decide if the station has to be renovated or whether modernizing the equipment is enough.
Plan Construction Before Interrupting Service
One of the most frequently ignored issues is how the existing station will be operating during rehabilitation. In general, wastewater systems can’t be shut down without a plan to manage flow.
Construction could involve temporary bypass pumps or installation of a replacement infrastructure with an operating station depending on the space available and the requirements of the project.
The stormwater project also requires careful scheduling since the system might be required during unplanned rain. The engineering plan must contain the installation process in addition to temporary operations and equipment integration.
The completed System is much easier to use
Romtec Utilities offers site-specific engineering solutions and supplies for stormwater and wastewater pumps.
The retrofit process determines which electrical, structural mechanical and communications components are required to be maintained and which require replacement. The company also provides initial plans and estimates for budgets to help project owners assess their alternatives.
After installation, testing the startup, commissioning and operator training are crucial to ensure that the new station is operating in accordance with its specifications. Successful rehabilitation projects should provide operators with an easy-to-maintain system.
Improve the System, Not Just Its Age
An older pumping station isn’t always a good candidate for replacement. It’s possible that structures will remain functional for years, even if the mechanical and electrical systems require modernization. The key is to determine the things that can be kept safely and cost-effectively while making sure the finished station meets present as well as future needs.
By looking at operating conditions, structural integrity, hydraulic requirements and the construction limitations together owners can make informed investment decision.
It’s not just about trying to make a stale station perform again. It’s to ensure that the upgraded system is prepared for the task ahead.