Wastewater Lift Station Measurement Challenges
Installing the right instrumentation to ensure reliable operation
Lift station operation is relatively simple and well understood, but problems often arise due to errors in the measurement of wet well level, pump inflow, pump outflow and other parameters. Installing the right instruments for each of these measurement points ensures reliable lift station operation, and keeps wastewater flowing from collection points to the treatment plants without overflows or spills.
Measurement and Control in Lift Stations
As shown in the picture above, pumps are typically installed below the lowest point of
the incoming wastewater feed pipe. Smaller lift stations might have a single 4-inch feed pipe, while larger stations can have multiple feed pipes each up to 36 inches in diameter.
When the wastewater level reaches a critical point, a control system starts one or more pumps to prevent wastewater from overflowing the well, which could contaminate ground water or local waterways.