Water Filtration during Dewatering Processes

It is more than typical for a construction or mining project to call for dewatering. Dewatering is the act of controlling or removing water from a construction or mining job location so that working is not interrupted for cleanup and, more importantly, worker safety is never put at risk. This could mean handling localized flooding or pools of water, or, more often, controlling the groundwater levels for work that is below ground. Dewatering jobs can be complicated by the presence in the water of significant amounts of solid materials, be they sand or dirt, or larger items such as gravel or twigs and branches. When this is the case, whoever is planning the dewatering effort should be sure to hire the proper equipment.

Trash Pumps are a case in point. They are a model of pump specifically engineered to remove water that contains large pieces of debris, including dirt, rocks, or wood. As such, they are built tougher than standard pumps that might ordinarily be used based solely on the volume of throughput required. It is important that a standard pump not be used when a trash pump is called for, because if the standard pump breaks down, throughput drops to zero-and stays there until the pump can be cleared or replaced.

An additional example of a particular tool for a particular job is the Envirotank, which is used to filter dewatering discharge so that it meets whatever standards or regulations are applicable to the site. An Envirotank (sometimes called a Weir Tank) uses methods to divide incoming water into discrete, smaller tanks that filter or absorb contaminants, including solid materials (like dirt or even metal particles) or visible oils.

These tanks can be tailored using an assortment of filters and special absorption materials to suit the local conditions. PH balancing can also be performed as necessary. Make sure you specify your needs as thoroughly as possible.

Finding a pump rental company that has the necessary specialized equipment is crucial for the success of any serious construction or mining project. If inadequate equipment is used in an effort to “make do” due to foolish cost-cutting measures or some other reason, this may end up costing the project more in the long run if the equipment breaks down frequently or requires a greater than average amount of maintenance in order to compensate for the lack of proper equipment.

It is very important that you do not settle, and do not try to get standard equipment to take the strain that specialized equipment is built to handle. Do not risk your schedule, or your workers.

Elaine D. Rohr is an independent Internet journalist concentrating on technology in the building industry. She is interested in Envirotank designs and Trash Pumps.