By-pass pumping systems mobilized to ensure uninterrupted flow for industry . . . and municipalities too.
22,400 GPM flow by-passed from 40" x 48" wet well
Not too long ago, the call went out to Godwin Pumps from the chief engineer of a major plant. "The sewer line from our largest facility discharges 32 mgd of process water. We must inspect the inside of this sewer line without interrupting essential production. Can you help us by-pass the 32 mgd through two blocks of our neighboring town from one 40" x 48" wet well?"
In engineering this by-pass, several key challenges had to be overcome. How do you draw 22,400 usgpm through such a restricted opening? The answer was a custom fabricated manifold bundle containing nine 12" pipes and four 8" pipes welded together. It fit like a glove when lowered into the 40" x 48" opening.
Another challenge was staging the pumps. Suction hoses were connected to the flanged manifold pipes and resembled a large octopus.
Once the pumps were in place, the discharge piping needed to be run together into four 18" discharge headers that would transport the process water to the water treatment facility two city blocks away.
The final challenge was to conform to environmental laws calling for "double wall" containment piping for process water flowing on public land. Creative thinking prevailed and a system of plastic sheeting was devised to "wrap" the discharge pipes. This formed an effective second layer of containment for any possible leaks from the main discharge piping.
One by one, the Godwin Dri-Prime pumps automatically picked up their prime and started pumping from the sewer box. Within minutes, the entire plant flow was being by-passed. The inspection was completed. The entire by-pass ran uneventfully for a total of seven days.
