Reducing costs and protecting pumping stations with WaStop

The problem

Emergency outfalls at pumping stations play a vital role in the system, providing a necessary safety valve. However, they also represent a potential weak link in the system. These emergency overflows typically discharge excess water into nearby water bodies like rivers, creeks, or lakes. Unfortunately, these water bodies are susceptible to surges in water levels during heavy rainfall and flooding events. Värnamo's pumping stations illustrate this challenge vividly.

During periods of elevated Lagan river levels, water infiltrates the sewer system via these emergency outlets at the pumping stations. Consequently, stormwater is pumped to the treatment plant, significantly amplifying both treatment and pumping costs.

This influx of water to the treatment plant not only escalates operational expenses but also triggers an uptick in maintenance costs. The need for additional treatment resources to handle the increased volume of water further compounds the financial burden. The overall consequence is a substantial economic strain on the system.

While emergency overflows are indispensable for managing excess water, they can inadvertently exacerbate the problem by inviting backflow into the pumping station. This undesirable scenario arises because, without protective measures, the overflow's intended function is reversed, allowing water to flow into the pumping station. This vulnerability is a common challenge faced by pumping stations with overflows into water bodies.

The consequences are far-reaching: the pumping station becomes overwhelmed, and the pump is unable to manage the excessive water volume. This often culminates in extensive flooding within the basements of homes situated in the vicinity.

An effective solution lies in the installation of a check valve on the emergency overflow. This measure not only safeguards the pumping station from backflow-induced overload but also shields it from debris and small animals that could obstruct the overflow's functionality when it's needed most. The incorporation of a check valve emerges as a crucial strategy to ensure the reliability and resilience of emergency outfalls at pumping stations.

By preventing the influx of water during high water levels and enhancing the overflow's efficiency, this approach represents a proactive measure to mitigate flooding risks and bolster the integrity of the pumping station system.