Tag: Total Cost of Ownership

INTRODUCTION One of the most persistent operational headaches in modern wastewater treatment is the management of non-dispersibles—specifically wipes, rags, and plastics. For municipal design engineers and plant superintendents, the failure to effectively manage these solids at the headworks or pump station results in “ragging,” a phenomenon that costs utilities millions annually in deragging labor, reduced […]

Introduction In municipal water distribution and treatment plant design, the butterfly valve is often treated as a commodity specification—a “set and forget” component. However, statistical data from utility asset management plans suggests that valve failure during critical isolation events (such as main breaks) occurs in approximately 15-20% of aged assets. The cost of a seized […]

Introduction to Submersible Pump Specification in Municipal and Industrial Systems The submersible solids-handling pump represents the backbone of modern municipal wastewater collection systems, storm water management, and industrial effluent transport. Unlike dry-pit configurations where the prime mover is separated from the hydraulic fluid, the submersible pump integrates the motor and hydraulic end into a single, […]

Introduction In the hydraulic architecture of municipal and industrial water and wastewater systems, the plug valve occupies a critical niche, balancing the requirements of reliable isolation with the capability for throttling flow control. Unlike gate valves, which are strictly for on/off service, or butterfly valves, which may struggle with heavy solids, the plug valve—specifically the […]

Introduction For municipal and industrial engineers, few operational challenges are as persistent and costly as the fouling of pumping equipment. The modern wastewater stream has evolved significantly over the last two decades, with the proliferation of non-dispersible synthetics (wipes) and an increase in solids loading. Consequently, “ragging” has shifted from an occasional nuisance to a […]

Introduction For municipal and industrial engineers, the centrifugal pump is the heartbeat of water conveyance and treatment infrastructure. However, a staggering number of pump installations fail to meet their expected lifecycle due to specification errors rather than manufacturing defects. Industry statistics suggest that over 60% of pump failures are attributed to operating outside the Preferred […]