Computerized
Unidirectional Flushing Program
When
the City changed its water treatment process from free
chlorine to chloramine to avoid contamination problems
resulting from reaction between these two chemicals,
a comprehensive flushing program was essential —
systematically flushing the 4 to 12-inch diameter distribution
pipes to remove residual chemicals and deposits.
InfraMetrix
implemented a computerized unidirectional flushing (UDF)
program. Using the GIS, hydraulic model, and hard copy
maps, a database was built to configure the program,
involving 7,400 fire hydrants and 16,300 water main
valves. Flushing results collected in the field were
recorded on technical data sheets and later transferred
into the UDF software. After the UDF program was completed,
Tom Leahy, PE with the City reported “consistent,
sweet-tasting water and no more customer complaints.” |
