A pump station that is aging doesn’t have to stop working before it’s a problem. It might still be able to move water or wastewater every day however, it struggles during high demand, require more frequent maintenance or rely on control systems that are getting harder to maintain. While the equipment is being used but its original design might no longer be appropriate for the present conditions.
The importance of recognizing this difference is for the municipalities, developers and facility operators when planning improvements to infrastructure.
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You should look past the equipment that’s not working properly.
The retrofit of a water liftstation must begin by evaluating the entire system, and not only the pump. Engineers need to evaluate the wet well, mechanical components electric components, controls, discharge piping and current pumping requirements.
It is vital to observe the state of your wet well. If its structure remains sound and in good condition, it could be possible to retain it when replacing equipment that is no longer in use. This will reduce the amount of construction needed as compared to the construction of a new station. However, retaining the existing infrastructure is only a good idea in the context of plans for improvements.
Have the boundaries of the Service Area changed?
An old wastewater facility could be serving additional homes, industrial buildings or commercial properties.
These modifications could alter the flow rate and demands on operations. Successful lift station rehabilitation therefore requires more than restoring the original equipment specifications. Engineers must evaluate the expected and current flows as well as the dynamic head of the equipment as well as operational reliability and the capacity.
A bigger pump isn’t always the solution. New equipment must work with existing piping, wet well, electrical supply, and controls. If not, enhancing one part can create problems elsewhere.
Stormwater Retrofits have Different Priorities
Retrofitting a stormwater pumping station requires additional considerations as runoff patterns can be affected by rainfall and adjacent development. Stations serving detention basins may have different patterns of inflow than those receiving water through storm drains. The quantity of runoff reaching the station could be affected by new pavement, increased parking, or a change in drainage infrastructure.
Before recommending an upgrade to a stormwater pump station engineers should look at the contributing drainage area. They should also consider the anticipated peak flows, storage capacity and discharge conditions.
These results can be used to determine whether modernization of the equipment will suffice or if the station is in need of more substantial reconstruction.
Design for the Construction Before Interrupting Service
A common issue that is not addressed is how the existing station will be operating during rehabilitation. Systems for managing wastewater generally can’t be taken offline without arrangements for ongoing flow control.
Construction can involve installing temporary bypass pumps, or replacing infrastructure adjacent to the operational station.
The stormwater project also requires a careful planning as the system might be needed during unexpected rainfall. A comprehensive engineering plan must include installation sequencing the temporary operation, the integration of equipment, and commissioning not just the replacement components.
Making the finished system easier to operate
Romtec Utilities is a provider of site-specific engineering as well as supply and solutions for Stormwater and Wastewater Pumping Applications.
Retrofitting is a method that evaluates structural, mechanical electrical, and communications elements to determine which are best left and which must be replaced. The company also provides preliminary plans and estimates for budgets to help owners analyze project options.
After installation, startup testing and commissioning are conducted, followed by operator training and documentation. Operators need to be able maintain and understand the system after a successful rehabilitation project.
Improve the System, Not Just Its Age
A pump station that’s older might not require to be completely replaced. It is possible that some structures will remain operational for a long time, even if the mechanical or electrical systems require updating. The most important thing is to figure out what can be safely and effectively preserved while ensuring the station can meet current as well as future needs.
Through analyzing operating conditions, structural integrity, hydraulic requirements, as well as construction constraints owners can make better informed investment decision.
It’s not only about making an old station functional again. To make sure that the station is prepared for future projects, it’s important to upgrade the station.