Lift station upgraded to handle increased airport terminal traffic
Problem: The Portland International Airport is pursuing an ambitious project titled PDX Next, which expands the terminal from 20 to 35 million passengers per year. They needed to upgrade the old lift station, as at an airport of this size, solids make their way into the system, which can create costly damage or repairs.
Solution: Romtec Utilities designed and supplied the new sewer interceptor lift station, which doubles the peak flow capacity. The station includes two in-line grinders that are prefabricated macerators that wastewater passes through to break down and reduce solids before entering a lift station to help cut down on repairs and improve the longevity of the system. The grinders, produced by JWC Environmental, can help lengthen the life of the lift station but include special installation requirements during construction. Typically, the macerators in the gravity flow line require a specific channel mold that needs to be poured on site. Most commonly, the grinders are plumbed directly in line with the piping with a bypass around the grinder, if necessary. Romtec Utilities experts were able to design a prefabricated mold that places the macerator into a manhole. This custom, prefabricated basin has many benefits, such as ease of installation and a small overall footprint.
Result: The use of the prefabricated mold and placing the macerator into a manhole dramatically cut down the work on site and saved the cost of construction. 541-496-3541; www.romtecutilities.com
