Biosolids Dumpster Loading System Upgrade Lafayette, CO WWTP
Lafayette WWTP
Lafayette, CO 80026
Merrick-McLaughlin Water Engineers
Denver, Colorado 80211
Hydro Construction
Fort Collins, CO 80524
General Description
The Environmental facility in Lafayette, CO needed to upgrade the current biosolids distribution system in an effort to reduce maintenance and down time. KWS provided a centrifuge diverter gate, shaftless screw conveyor and distribution slide gates to transfer biosolids from a centrifuge to a loading bay and to evenly distribute the biosolids in dumpsters. The KWS system replaced a progressive cavity pump and piping. The pump did not efficiently distribute material in the dumpster, required regular and expensive maintenance and caused significant operational issues because the pipe to the loading area remained full causing blockage when the biosolids dried out during periods of inactivity or froze in the winter.
Design Parameters
- Product Type: Dewatered Biosolids or Sludge
- Material Density: 60 to 65 Lbs. per Cubic Foot
- Solids by Weight: 18 to 28% Total Solids
- Conveyor System Capacity: 160 Cubic Feet per Hour
- Duty: 24 Hours per Day, 7 Days per Week
KWS Advantages
KWS designed and manufactured a complete biosolids distribution system from the discharge of the centrifuge to the dumpsters. The new system fit perfectly into the existing location and met every detail of the specifications. All of the problems with the previous system were eliminated. Dumpsters are now loaded more fully and evenly, reducing transportation and disposal costs.
KWS supported the installation, commissioning and training by providing a qualified and registered Professional Engineer familiar with the project, design requirements and equipment delivered.
Special Features
The unique diverter gate was designed to separate low-solids material from the product stream and divert it back to the centrate line. The shaftless screw conveyor was designed for upset conditions and to handle the harsh conditions of the region. It requires little maintenance and is easy to work on, if needed. The drip-tight slide gates evenly distribute the dewatered biosolids into the dumpsters.
Testimonial
"We started up the equipment without issue and it has run the same way ever since. It is smooth and quiet and solves the problems we had with the previous transfer system."
Mick Forrester, Plant Supervisor – City of Lafayette WWTP
