A municipality has an aging wastewater lift station. Pumps are nearing the end their useful life, while controls require modernization, and the access hatch must be replaced. The concrete wet well is robust and sturdy.

Should the entire station demolished and rebuilt? Not necessarily. It is important to inquire if the system that is in place will be able to support modern pumps without compromising capacity in the future in terms of reliability, reliability, or accessibility.

Image credit: romtecutilities.com

Retrofitting a pump station can be a fantastic method to save infrastructure and replace parts that are no longer functioning.

Start with the Structures That Nobody Wants To Replace

The wet well is typically one of the most expensive and disruptive parts to replace since it is located underground, linked to existing piping, and vital for wastewater collection.

If the concrete structure remains usable, its retention could minimize excavation and construction work.

The degradation of the area around the access hatch could affect this decision. Romtec Utilities identifies wet well hatch replacement as an usual retrofit requirement. It may be more durable to repair the top slab instead of constructing a new hatch on deteriorated concrete. This can make it easier to access and enhance the utility of the structure without rebuilding the complete wet well.

A new pump improves the engine

Imagine a neighborhood that has seen an increase in population since its original lift station was installed. It could be that the current pumps are not capable of handling the increased flows of wastewater.

A pumping station upgrade could involve higher-horsepower pumps, but equipment selection cannot happen independently of the surrounding system.

Engineers must also consider the requirements for hydraulics of the system. This includes flow rate and dynamic head total. If you install a bigger pump without considering these factors the system could cause operational problems rather than resolve these. Planning for future capacity during the initial design process can simplify future expansion.

Make sure the wastewater is moving during Construction

Retrofitting an existing pump station may present an entirely new challenge. As with other equipment replacement projects, the station will need to continue operating throughout construction.

Even when contractors are working, wastewater continues to arrive. Based on the nature of the project temporary bypass pumps could be required in order to maintain operation during the removal and installation of existing equipment.

Romtec Utilities took on this kind of challenge in the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Brunswick, Georgia.

The project involved replacing two older wastewater lift stations and ensuring the operation of the facility. Specific engineering for the site packaging systems, packaged systems and bypass pumping techniques were used to accommodate existing station footprints as well as operational needs. This case illustrates why it is crucial to think about the sequence of construction prior to installing.

When replacement is the better option

Not every station can be restored. Sewer lift stations could need to be rebuilt if they have a severely damaged wet well or a lack of structural capacity.

It is essential that the decision made takes into account structural conditions along with equipment compatibility, accessibility to construction, as well longer-term operational requirements. Romtec Utilities begins retrofits and replacements by identifying the components that are to remain and those that need to be replaced.

From there, the business designs site-specific engineering solutions as well as preliminary designs and budgetary estimates. Prefabricated components are also useful for organizing installation and reducing some on-site requirements.

The Project isn’t Over Until the Pumps Are Running

The modern lift station needs to operate as a system. Before returning a lift station to normal operation, initial tests, commissioning and verification of equipment are required to confirm that all pumps, controls and equipment work in accordance with the specifications.

Operator training and maintenance and operation manuals are equally important. Before taking on the responsibility of the station, personnel responsible for maintenance must understand new procedures, equipment and the documentation.

Retrofitting infrastructure is a great way to preserve its value while addressing limitations that led to modernization.

Municipalities and owners of facilities must look beyond immediate repair. The most effective project is one that integrates the new equipment into existing structures, ensures vital service throughout construction, and prepares the pumping system to last for years of continued operation.