PROJECT OF THE WEEK: PASSAIC VALLEY SEWERAGE COMMISSION HTPSR PIPE LINING PROJECT

The Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission (PVSC) recently completed clean water improvements that are being funded with approximately $3.8 million in loans from the NJ Water Bank, a joint low-rate funding program of the DEP and the NJ I-Bank. Total savings for this project are estimated to be $2.3 million over the 20-year term of the loan or 61% of the total project cost. In addition, this project created an estimated 46 direct construction jobs.  

PVSC utilizes a wet air oxidation process (referred to as Zimpro) wherein oxygen is introduced as an oxidation agent for dissolved and suspended particles to stabilize sludge. The oxidation reactions occur in superheated water at temperatures between water's boiling point (100 degrees Celsius) and the critical point of 374 degrees Celsius. After stabilization, the sludge is sent to Sludge Decant Tanks. The supernatant from the decant tanks is sent to Oxygenation Tanks and/or the Supernatant Treatment Plant for further treatment through a 20-inch pipeline. The pipe was lined with a polyethylene liner that failed and required replacement. To address this infirmity, the interior of the pipe was lined with a new coating system to extend its life.  

Ras J. Baraka, Mayor of the City of Newark, one of the Commission's major customers, applauded PVSC and its dedication to the environment and the communities it serves. He noted that "The lining of a pipe may seem like an inconsequential project, but the PVSC recognizes the importance of repairing its assets for continued and efficient treatment. They implement these repairs on a timely basis to minimize the potential of more expensive improvements in the future and finance the repairs through the Water Bank to remain cost-effective for ratepayers." 

This project was designed by CDM Smith and constructed by B.R. Welding, Inc. 

Picture courtesy of PVSC