Challenging Confined Space Entry in Anastasia Island Anastasia Island’s Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) was experiencing reduced pumping capacity due to accumulated solids in their influent lift station, a facility with a permitted capacity of 4.95MGD.  Due to the challenging nature of the 35-foot deep structure, Anastasia Island’s wet well hadn’t been cleaned in several years, resulting in the accumulation of a significant amount of material. “The pump station consists of four Gorman-Rupp self-priming solids handling centrifugal pumps,” explained James Overton, P.E., at the St. Johns County Utility Department (SJCUD).  “Due to grit and rags that accumulated, one pump was completely out of service and the pumping capacity of a second pump was greatly reduced and beginning to clog on a regular basis.  SJCUD was concerned about losing another pump and needed to take action.” With the help of USST’s Combination3® truck and equipment, the USST crew removed 80-CY of material from the wet well via confined space entry.  Due to high levels of H2S (hydrogen sulfide) gas, USST crew members were extremely cautious when entering the wet well during the project. “We follow all safety and compliance procedures when entering a confined space, taking extra care when high levels of gas are present, including using supplied air with emergency backup tanks, explosion proof vent fans, LED lighting and more,” said USST Field Supervisor, Paul Del Favero. The USST crew safely and successfully removed sand, grit and rag material from the bottom of the wet well, and the pump station has since gained back full pumping capacity.  By restoring capacity, pump station performance is improved, reducing pump run times and frequency of mechanical wear and tear. “The project was a great success and we are very pleased with U.S. Submergent’s commitment to get it done given the extremely difficult conditions,” said James Overton, P.E.  “We are grateful that U.S. Submergent was able to act quickly and get it done.” Experiencing reduced pumping capacity in your wet well or facility treatment efficiency?  Our knowledgeable representatives can assist in putting together a specialized plan for your facility to safely restore valuable capacity.  The premier capacity restoration services of USST can help utilities extend the life of infrastructure, saving time, energy, and money. Give us a call at (844) 765-7866 or request a free, customized quote here.