NITROGEN PURGE PERFORMED ON TANK TO LOWER EXPLOSION HAZARD PRIOR TO CLEANING

Sludge and other wastewater residuals had accumulated over time in a Southeast Florida digestor, reducing its treatment capacity. Measuring 65-feet in diameter with 36-feet high walls, the tank was in need of cleaning which contained levels of methane due to the treatment process.

Methane buildup in wastewater tanks requires additional safety protocols

Methane buildup in wastewater tanks occurs naturally due to the treatment process and has the potential to be hazardous. A drain down of the digestor was necessary before work could commence. To create a safer environment for crew members and reduce the risk, a nitrogen purge was performed to displace the methane found in the tank.

Because confined space entry was needed to access and remove material, USST crew took extra care to monitor air quality levels, maintain proper ventilation, and check gas meters.

“We take care to follow all safety and compliance procedures when entering a confined space,” said Charles Harrington, USST Foreman. “We got in there safely and were able to remove large amounts of material quickly.”

How U.S. Submergent Technologies removed 360 tons of sludge from a covered digester

The Combination^3® Truck’s powerful vacuum was used to remove sludge and wastewater residuals without any issues.  USST’s vacuum is powered by a blower capable of delivering nearly double the CFM of a standard vacuum truck, allowing the crew to remove large amounts of material and complete the job quickly.  In total, 360-tons were removed from the structure, ready for offsite disposal.

USST’s Combination^3® Trucks are more than just a simple vac truck.  Equipped with a powerful vacuum, downhole pump, jetter, and extended-reach boom, USST has the ability to clean in wet or dry conditions in up to eight different setups without bringing multiple pieces of equipment to the jobsite. Learn more about the structures we clean here .

Have a challenging situation that needs attention?  The Combination^3® Truck makes restoring treatment or collection capacity easier than you think.  Call one of our knowledgeable representatives at (844) 765-7866 or email info@ussubmergent.com.