An old pump station does not have to cease operation before it becomes a problem. It might still be able to move the water and wastewater daily and yet be unable to cope with high demand, require more frequent maintenance or rely on control systems which are becoming more difficult to sustain. Although the equipment is still in use the original design may not be suitable for current conditions.
Recognizing this difference is important for the municipalities, developers and facility operators when planning upgrades to infrastructure.
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See beyond the equipment Broken
The retrofit of a water liftstation should begin by assessing the entire system, and not only the pump. Engineers must evaluate the wetwell as well as mechanical and electrical components. They should also look at discharge pipes as well as the current needs for pumping.
The condition of the well is of particular importance. If the structure of your wet well is sound then you might be able to replace it with a new equipment while maintaining its existing structure. It’s less expensive to construct a new station than you were to keep the existing one. But, keeping the existing infrastructure is only a good idea to support the plans for improvements.
The area of service has been changed.
The wastewater facility that was constructed years ago can be used to service more businesses, homes, as well as industrial processes.
These modifications could affect the rate of flow and operational needs. For lift stations to be successfully rehabilitated, it is not enough to return to original specifications. Engineers must assess the current and expected flows and the overall dynamic head of equipment as well as operational reliability and the capacity.
It’s not enough to just purchase a bigger pump. New equipment should work with the existing piping system Wet wells, wet wells and control systems, electrical supply etc. When one part is improved, it can cause problems with the other components.
Priorities for stormwater retrofits are different
Retrofitting a stormwater pumping station requires additional considerations as the runoff patterns are affected by rain and nearby development. The flow pattern of an area that has the area of detention may differ from one that is receiving water directly through the storm drain. The amount of runoff that gets to the station may be affected by new pavement, increased parking, or changed drainage infrastructure.
Before recommending a stormwater station upgrade, engineers should review the contributing drainage area, expected peak flows, storage capacity, discharge conditions, and existing pump performance.
These findings help determine whether the modernization of equipment is sufficient or if the station requires more substantial reconstruction.
Plan your construction before you interrupt service
A common issue that is not addressed is how the station will function during the rehabilitation. The wastewater system is generally not taken offline without arrangements for continued flow management.
Construction can include temporary bypass pumps as well as the construction of a new infrastructure with the operating station depending on the space available and the needs of the project.
The stormwater project also requires careful scheduling since the system might be needed in the event of an unexpected rainstorm. An engineering strategy that is comprehensive should be able to address installation sequence in addition to temporary operations, equipment integration, and commissioning, not only the replacement components.
Making the final system easier to use
Romtec Utilities offers site-specific engineering solutions and equipment for stormwater and wastewater pumps.
The retrofit method evaluates which structural, mechanical, electrical, and communication elements can remain and which require replacement. The company also offers preliminary designs and budgetary estimates to help project owners assess their options.
After installation, testing for startup and commissioning will be conducted, followed by operator training and documentation. Operators should be able to maintain and understand the system following a successful rehabilitation.
Upgrade Your System and Not Limit Its Upgrades to its Age
An older pump station isn’t a guarantee to be completely replaced. It’s possible that structures will remain functional for years, even if the mechanical and electrical systems require modernization. The key is to identify what can be safe and efficiently retained while ensuring the station meets current as well as future needs.
Owners are able to make better investment choices by studying the operational conditions along with structural integrity, hydraulic and demands together.
It’s not just about making the old station operational. It’s about making sure that the new system is ready for the work ahead.