In-House Grit Removal System Design-Build Approach Demonstrates a Resilient Sewer District's Commitment to Fiscally-Smart Operational Success and Employee Empowerment

摘要

The North Davis Sewer District's (NDSD) poorly performing original aerated grit chambers resulted in service interruptions and high costs related to the maintenance / repair of downstream process equipment and removal of accumulated grit in downstream basins. Plant management compared the cost of its existing equipment and the expected cost to operate a new system to assess the feasibility of an upgrade. Plans for a new hydraulic forced-vortex grit removal were approved by the NDSD board and State of Utah as an "in-kind" replacement that did not require new construction permits. The system was installed inside existing tankage by the district's internal plant staff, eliminating the traditional consulting and contracting costs for a new grit removal system and lowering the annual cost of grit handling and maintenance. This approach maximized workforce skills and buy-in of its operations and maintenance staff while strengthening plant staff comradery.