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  1. HVAC Replacement In Schools

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    HVAC renovations of public and private schools are most commonly completed during a hectic, fast-paced 8-10 week period when students and staff are out for the summer. Only in cases where an extensive complete rehabilitation of a school is required will the students and faculty be temporarily placed in other buildings until the work is finished. A detailed well-planned schedule must be created to meet the timeline during the summer. Everyone has to be on board, and that includes equipment suppliers, fabricators, subcontractors, waste management companies, and testing and balancing personnel. Coordination and task assignments must be clearly communicated by the project manager prior to the start of the project. Let’s look at some of the main elements of a successful HVAC replacement project.

    Equipment: We immediately contact our equipment suppliers as soon as we receive the Leter of Intent from the school; This is especially important for long lead-time items.These purchases must be completed early so that equipment doesn’t arrive late and delay the project. As an added measure of security, Waco will utilize our large 100,000 sf + warehouse to store equipment. This will allow the equipment to be readily available when needed, and protected from damage while in our possession,instead of on a jobsite. No piece of equipment can be overlooked, as even the smallest control module could cause delays that impact successful completion of the project.

    Fabrication: Waco has in-house fabrication capabilities, and also utilizes a network of outside fabricators. Every piece of structural steel support, sheet metal duct, plumbing and hydronic piping that can be made in advance will be fabricated prior to the start of the project. Having these components labelled, correctly identified and stored safely will save time when the project begins. Our experienced Project Managers know the balance between which components might be best field fabricated vs made ahead of time, as changes in layout or design of the project can often occur.

    Subcontractors: Although Waco utilizes over 80% of our own in-house workforce to complete a project, there can be critical areas where a subcontractor’s expertise is required. Waco’s utilizes only subcontractors that can be trusted to perform as planned. If necessary, Waco will assist a subcontractor in any way possible, from storing of materials to providing additional labor. Good communications with the subcontractors takes place early in the project and continues throughout the job.Early feedback, both positive and negative, can often avoid critical last-minute changes.

    Waste Management & Storage: As large as many schools are, there is almost always less room than anticipated, to store materials and have sufficient office space. Efficient use of dumpsters for the demolition portion of a job can save time in many ways. We know which waste management companies have the right equipment and can perform, and which ones don’t. An overflowing dumpster, left siting for days can be a problem from both a logistic and safety perspective. Proper housekeeping during the entire project will increase productivity and further reduce safety concerns.Adequate space for storage of equipment and materials must be planned in advance. Materials movement should be minimized before final placement. Proper storage must be provided to combat the effects of weather and damage.

    Engineering / Owner Support: Success on an HVAC demolition and replacement depends upon a good working relationship between the contractor, the owner (school system) and the Engineering firm selected by the school . The owner normally expects the engineer to make critical decisions regardingequipment type, material specifications, installation changes and approval of payments. The owner will assist on logistics, such as which buildings to start first, site security and access requirements. Over the years, Waco has cultivated relationships with both owners and engineers and has established a level of trust and expertise that provides confidence in our construction approach and quality control measures. When the final inspection of the building and the new HVAC systems are being conducted, a quality contractor such as Waco will have a minimal amount of corrections or adjustments

    Preparing for the unplanned: Waco has decades of experience with many different types of HVAC systems. With that experience comeslessons learned that other contractors may not have acquired. Weather conditions, structural building issues, lack of sufficient utility service and many other unforeseen issues must be considered in the schedule. There will be times of less productivity. None of these should deter us from delivering a complete project on schedule. Proper project management
    will keep things moving forward with minimal adjustments and delays.

    Contact Waco and be confident that your next project will be professionaly installed, on time, and worry-free.

  2. Professional Asbestos Removal for a Safe and Clean Environment

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    Asbestos is a hazardous mineral fiber known for its heat resistance and insulating properties. Prolonged exposure to its fibers can lead to serious health risks, including lung diseases like lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Due to their harmful effects, the removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials must be handled by trained professionals following specific safety protocols.

    This article will explore the dangers associated with asbestos exposure and its health effects. It will also examine the methods and safety protocols used by asbestos removal contractors during removal and abatement processes.

    Common Asbestos-Related Dangers

    Respiratory Issues

    Inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to various respiratory problems. Asbestos exposure is linked to the development of asbestosis, a chronic lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue. This can cause breathing difficulties and respiratory failure over time.

    Lung Cancer

    Inhaled asbestos fibers can cause inflammation and scarring in the lungs, eventually leading to the formation of cancerous tumors. Smokers who are exposed to asbestos have a particularly high risk of developing lung cancer.

    Mesothelioma

    Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The latency period for this disease can be decades, with symptoms often not appearing until it has reached an advanced stage.

    Asbestos-Related Pleural Disease (ARPD)

    ARPD encompasses various non-cancerous lung conditions caused by asbestos exposure, including pleural plaques, thickening, and effusion. While these conditions may not be life-threatening, they can cause discomfort and impair lung function.

    Gastrointestinal and Other Cancers

    Asbestos exposure has been associated with an increased risk of developing cancers of the esophagus, stomach, colon, and other organs. Although less common than lung-related diseases, these cancers are still significant health risks for individuals exposed to asbestos.

    Secondary Exposure Risks

    Before the dangers of asbestos were fully known, individuals who lived with asbestos workers or who regularly came into contact with asbestos-contaminated environments, faced health risks through secondary exposure. Fibers can cling to clothing, skin, and hair, potentially exposing family members and others in the vicinity to asbestos dust.

    Methods and Protocols Employed by Asbestos Removal Contractors

    The following methods and protocols help asbestos removal contractors effectively mitigate the risks associated with exposure:

    Risk Assessment

    An environmental hygienist will evaluate the site, and conduct sampling to determine the extent of contamination and location of asbestos, and make recommendations for removal or abatement. A tailored removal plan will ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to minimize risks, protect occupants and the environment, and guard against hazards to workers. The hygienist may conduct final clearance sampling to confirm that the asbestos has been safely and properly removed.

    Containment

    Containment prevents the spread of asbestos fibers and minimizes the risk of exposure to workers and the public. Asbestos removal contractors use containment barriers, such as heavy plastic sheeting and negative air pressure systems, to seal off the area and isolate asbestos-containing materials. This eliminates the potential for airborne dispersion and secondary contamination.

    Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

    During remediation activities, PPE is essential for minimizing worker exposure to airborne asbestos fibers. Contractors provide workers with appropriate PPE, including respirators with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, disposable coveralls, gloves, and protective eyewear. Proper training, fit-testing and a medical evaluation for wearing a respirator must be completed before any worker can be exposed to an asbestos work environment.

    Wet Methods

    Wet methods suppress the release of airborne fibers and minimize the risk of exposure to workers and the surrounding environment. Asbestos removal contractors utilize misting or spraying techniques to completely wet down the asbestos-containing materials before any removal. Surfactants are added to water to promote penetration into the material and to prevent fiber dispersion into the air.

    Careful Handling and Disposal

    After removal, asbestos-containing materials (ACM) are handled with extreme care to prevent fiber release and minimize the risk of exposure to the environment. Contractors adhere to strict protocols for containing, labeling, and transporting asbestos waste to a permitted disposal facility.

    Decontamination Procedures

    After completing asbestos removal tasks, workers undergo procedures to remove any fibers adhering to their PPE or clothing. Decontamination units have showers and clean changing areas to facilitate the safe removal and disposal of contaminated PPE. These are critical for protecting workers, preventing secondary exposure risks, and ensuring that asbestos removal projects are conducted safely.

    Choose Waco for Safe and Effective Asbestos Abatement Services

    At Waco, we offer comprehensive asbestos removal services conducted by trained and licensed professionals. We are dedicated to safely removing contaminated materials from residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial settings. We adhere to strict safety standards and regulations. With over 40 years of experience, along with many proven techniques for proper removal of asbestos, Waco can clearly demonstrate our commitment to protect public health and the environment.

    Contact us today to learn more about our services, or request a quote now!

  3. Insulation for Maximum Performance in Facilities

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    Click to ExpandInsulation for Maximum Performance in Facilities

    Insulation Uses:

    1. Thermal control: Prevents heat gain or loss. Keeps processes at a controlled regulated temperature.
    2. Freeze Protection: For water systems susceptible to below-freezing temperatures, insulation in combination with electric heat tracing is a technique used to prevent ruptured pipes and equipment.
    3. Condensation control: Prevents sweating or water buildup on the surface or other areas of a facility
    4. Fireproofing and protection of mechanical systems from corrosion, ultraviolet light, impact, heat, dust and debris
    5. Personnel Protection: Protects those working around these systems from burns, extreme cold and caustic and acidic environments.
    6. Energy efficiency and cost savings: Prevents wasted energy from leaving the system and added cost to replace that energy. Easy to calculate investment payback and savings from year to year.
    7. Acoustics: Reduction in facility noise levels from circulation of fluids in piping, air velocity in ductwork and vibration caused noises in a system.

    Types of Insulation

    Fibrous

    Fiberglass and Mineral wool are produced by taking glass or basalt type rocks, melting them and spinning the fibers into a mat or board or pipe shape. Fibrous insulations have a wide temperature range making them useful for multiple applications in a facility. They have moderate to good R-values per inch and are easily fabricated using knives or scissors.

    Closed Cell Foams

    These insulations can be flexible and rubber-like, such as Armaflex and K-flex, for use on piping,and curved surfaces of ducts and equipment. They can also be rigid foams such as Foamglas ( cellular Glass), Polyisocyanurate, phenolic foam or extruded polystyrene foam-boards. Typically these foams have a better R-value than fibrous insulation and maintain that characteristic by not retaining moisture in their unique cell structure. They are typically not suitable for higher temperatures.

    Open Cell Foams

    These can be spray applied foams which can fill large cavities, or polyimide foams which are flexible/bendable and have excellent fire protection capabilities. Open-cell foams can absorb and retain some moisture so protection is required to avoid this issue. They typically have good R-values per inch. and are easily fabricated.

    Reflective

    These insulations rely on reflecting radiant heat either away from the source or directing it to the source. They are usually very flexible and have applications on piping, ductwork and building insulation. They are clean and easy to fabricate, with moderate R-values per inch.

    Aerogels

    These insulations are often dusty and difficult to fabricate or bend, however, they maintain the highest R-value levels per inch and therefore can be readily used in tight areas where there is limited space for thicker insulations.

    Cryogenic Systems

    Cryogenic insulation involves maintaining extremely low temperatures for storing or transporting cryogenic liquids like liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquid nitrogen. Materials like foams, aerogels, and multilayer insulation are employed to minimize heat transfer and prevent temperature fluctuations. This approach ensures the safe operation of industrial processes involving the handling of cryogenic fluids.

    Insulation Jacketing

    Insulation jacketing covers insulation materials with protective jackets or wraps, typically made from metal, PVC, or other durable materials. These jackets provide mechanical protection against physical damage, weathering, corrosion, and UV exposure, extending the lifespan of insulation systems.

    Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIPs)

    VIPs comprise a core material enclosed in a gas-tight envelope, with the air evacuated to create a vacuum. This reduces heat transfer through conduction and convection. Despite their thin profile, VIPs offer high thermal resistance, making them ideal for space-constrained industrial projects, appliances, equipment and areas with limited insulation thickness allowances.

    Facilities that Use Insulation

    Paper mills, Power Generation, Chemical Manufacturers, Pharmaceutical, Food & Beverage, Water and Wastewater Treatment Facilities, Hospitals, Commercial and Institutional Buildings

    Choose Waco, Inc. for High-Quality Insulation Solutions

    Waco, Inc.specializes in providing insulation solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of our many clients! Waco has over 60 years of experience and expertise . We understand the importance of insulation in optimizing operational efficiency and ensuring workplace safety. Our team of professionals is committed to delivering high-quality products and services that exceed industry standards.

    Contact us or request a quote today to get started.

  4. Process Piping Systems

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    Specialized equipment installed in manufacturing facilities will require mechanical piping systems that are engineered to handle the rigorous conditions of their processes. Some of these conditions are:

    • Temperatures: (Cryogenic -267F to Saturated Steam 2000F plus)
    • Pressures: (Vacuum to HP steam at 2,000 psig )
    • Fluid types: Acids, caustics, corrosive and flammable chemicals, at various viscosities

    Controlling these conditions are critical and can involve a multitude of different types of steel piping, gaskets, valves, flanges and fittings.

    Most of the design requirements for Process Piping Systems are covered under ASME B31.3 codes.
    This code will provide the roadmap for piping design in chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, paper mills, mining, semiconductor and food & beverage manufacturing facilities.
    Similarly, ASME B31.1 codes provide a complete design guide for Power Piping Systems, which include most power generating facilities and industrial plants utilizing high pressure steam.

    The specifications for what type of piping metallurgy to be used is dictated by these ASME codes. The various types of metallurgy are:

    • Stainless Steel: grades 304, 316, P11, P22, P-91, Chrome -Moly, Inconel, Hastelloy and Monel
    • Carbon Steel: Schedule 5 thru 160. Seamless or welded. The higher the number; the greater the pressure resistance and the thicker the pipe wall dimension.

    B36.10 is the specification for carbon steel pipe dimensions
    B36.19 is the specification for stainless steel pipe dimensions
    ASTM A270 is the material specification for hygienic sanitary stainless steel pipe and tubing

    The contractor may determine what type of connection system will be utilized depending on the application. If the process requires welding the piping, then the most common welding methods are:

    Gas Metal Arc- GMAW / MIG Gas Tungsten Arc – GTAW/ TIG
    Shielded Metal Arc – SMAW / Stick
    Flux Core Arc – FCAW

    Most process piping systems incorporate both fitted pipe connections and welded pipe connections. The welded pipe connections are usually butt weld or socket weld. These welds typically connect the piping to flanges, valves or tee’s and fittings.

    The testing of these pipe systems is usually one of the following:
    Non-Destructive – Liquid Dye Penetrant, Ultrasonic or Radiography
    Hydrostatic – which is a pressure test using water.

    The true formula for ensuring the success and longevity of a process piping system requires strict adherence to the ASME codes listed under B31.1 and B31.3 and documentation of the process (which should involve an approved Quality Assurance and Quality Control Manual.) This will demonstrate the experience and skill of the welders, certify the origin of purchased materials including traceability and the inspection and testing of the entire piping system.

    Waco has built our reputation on providing these components in every application, whether large or small, and we will continue these efforts on all future projects.

    Contact us today to discuss how we can be of service to you on your next process piping application.

  5. Freeze Protection of Piping

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    Freeze protection of water piping located outside or exposed to cold temperatures requires planning and adherence to proper specifications. Thermal insulation alone, even when applied correctly and in the proper thickness, does not necessarily prevent freezing. All electrical heat tracing manufacturers provide a specific heat loss calculation chart for selecting the proper heat trace wattage, based on the pipe diameter and insulation thickness. It is important to use the correct wattage rating from these charts.

    The most common wattages used for freeze protection of water piping are 3, 5, and 8 watts per foot. In some instances, 10 and 15 watts per foot may be required. Small-diameter piping (3 inches or less), hung horizontally, is more susceptible to freezing than vertical piping of the same diameter, however, both should be treated equally for the protection of the entire system. Flanges, valves, and instrumentation all must have the electric tracing looped or installed properly to eliminate cold spots or gaps in the system. Environmental factors such as wind speed, minimum ambient temperature, and the location of the piping can require a different level of protection (e.g. piping located on a roof vs. buried in the ground).

    Fortunately, many regions of the Mid-Atlantic where Waco operates, do not experience long extended periods of below-freezing temperatures. However, a polar vortex situation like the one that occurred around Christmas in 2022 did not take long to cause serious problems for many businesses and factories.

    What are the piping systems that are most susceptible to freezing?

    • Hydronic water piping on HVAC units and cooling towers
    • Makeup water piping and exposed plumbing
    • Wastewater piping at Water Treatment Plants
    • Water piping at Pump Stations or Industrial facilities

    The main type of electric tracing for freeze protection is called self-regulating (SR) and is designed to operate with demand, fluctuating or increasing the wattage as the temperature drops. Another type of electric tracing is Constant Wattage (CW), which is commonly used to maintain a constant specified temperature in water or liquids of a process system. Heat tracing can be powered by any of the voltages commonly found in commercial or industrial facilities (120, 208, 240, and 277) but must be ordered for the specific voltage available.

    Insulation contractors like Waco, Inc. are very capable of effectively installing SR electric heat tracing and providing the proper insulation and weather barrier jacketing systems. It is a complete package that clients find more cost-effective than getting separate bids for heat tracing and insulation from different contractors. A qualified electrician is required to make the final connection to the power source on any system involved. Waco works with several electrical contractors to ensure that the tracing is properly installed and that junction boxes and thermostats are located in such a way to reduce the lengths of conduit needed to power them. Sometimes heat tracing may need to be located in a hazardous environment, which would require Class 1, 2, or 3 explosion-proof electrical enclosures. Waco can provide systems with additional ground fault protection, in addition to heat trace cable manufactured with corrosion-resistant material or non-sparking, non-metallic design.

    Any thermal insulation system must be properly installed so that the heat tracing can perform as designed. Adequate protection from the weather is critical. Waco has decades of experience with heat-trace systems, and we continually train our workforce on proper installation techniques. You can be assured that we will provide a complete system that performs and protects, reducing your worries during the winter months and throughout the year. Don’t wait until cold weather arrives. Contact Waco for your next heat tracing project.

  6. Industrial Installation

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    Click to ExpandIndustrial-Installation

    Industrial equipment is designed to perform specific functions, and any deviation from the recommended installation guidelines can lead to malfunction or failure. Ensuring proper installation is crucial to prevent costly downtime and repairs. Investing in professional installation services can eliminate uncertainty and provide businesses with increased productivity while maximizing their equipment’s performance.

    For over five decades, Waco Inc. has delivered specialized installation services to various industries, including many Fortune 500 companies. We operate across Virginia, North Carolina, Maryland, and West Virginia.

    Preparation Guide for Industrial Equipment Installation

    Proper preparation can help avoid delays, equipment damage, and additional costs. Here are three steps that can make the pre-construction installation process more efficient:

    1. Establishing a Detailed Scope of Work

    Knowing which requirements must be met for a successful installation is crucial. This information can be obtained from the project manager and engineer who can list specific on-site requirements. Some of the key requirements include the following:

    • Access to Site
    • Foundation Support and any Modifications
    • Overhead Obstructions
    • Electrical Power Supply and Capacity
    • Mechanical Piping Tie in Locations

    2. Identifying Onsite Storage Capacity

    Locations within a facility where equipment, materials, or supplies can be staged before moving to their final destination.is critical. Proper planning and communication with the project manager and plant personnel can help determine the most efficient location for storage. This will minimize any additional rigging requirements, so that equipment can be more easily placed in the proper location.

    3. Verifying Environmental Conditions

    It is vital to consider all environmental conditions during and before installation. Quite often stricter regulations will be required for the newer equipment. Structural improvements such as containment walls and larger drainage may be needed to handle the increased possible spill capacity of the new equipment.

    Core Services

    Our team of experienced professionals specializes in providing the following core services:

    Equipment Installation

    Equipment installation refers to assembling and connecting industrial equipment and machinery to enable them to perform their specific functions. It requires adherence to the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation, which may include site preparation, electrical and mechanical connections, equipment assembly, and testing.

    At Waco Inc., we provide industrial equipment installation services for various industries and applications. Our turnkey solutions encompass project management, logistics, system testing, and startup. We also have extensive experience in installing different types of industrial equipment, including the following:

    • HVAC units
    • Boilers
    • Pumps
    • Motors
    • Fans
    • Compressors
    • Conveyors
    • Ductwork and breeching
    • Dehumidifiers
    • Heat exchangers
    • Incinerators
    • Exhaust stacks
    • Centrifuges
    • Reactors
    • Curing ovens
    • Piping: process/utility
    • Pre-insulated piping
    • Tanks
    • Vessels
    • Assembly lines
    • Chillers
    • Silos
    • Platforms and catwalks
    • Structural steel columns and supports
    • Air pollution monitors
    • Material handling equipment

    Full Plant Relocation

    Full plant relocation involves moving an entire industrial facility or plant to a new location. This process includes dismantling and disconnecting all the original site’s machinery, equipment, and infrastructure. It is followed by transportation to the new place and then reassembling and reconnecting everything at the new site.

    Equipment Alignment

    Equipment alignment ensures that machinery and equipment are properly positioned and adjusted to function optimally. The process helps reduce equipment wear and tear, minimize vibrations, and prevent premature failure. It can be performed using various techniques, such as laser alignment or dial indicator alignment.

    Structural Steel and Rigging

    Structural steel and rigging are two critical processes in setting up and relocating large steel structures and machinery in industrial settings. Structural steel encompasses the installation of steel components that offer support to various industrial systems and equipment. Rigging is the use of specialized cranes, forklifts, chainfalls and techniques to move heavy industrial parts, machinery, and equipment.

    Concrete Forming and Finishing

    Concrete forming and finishing involves placing concrete into forms and structures to achieve the desired appearance and function. Waco has experience with many different types of grouts, concrete additives and structural components that can ensure a proper placement or supporting foundation for new equipment.

    Industrial Installation Projects

    Waco Inc. has been a trusted provider of specialized services across various sectors, including energy, chemical manufacturing, food and beverage, and pulp and paper mills. Our commitment to delivering high-quality services has earned us the public’s trust over the years.

    Here are some examples of our featured industrial installation projects:

    Choose Waco Inc. for Safe and High-Quality Installation Services

    At Waco Inc., we have a diversified portfolio of industrial equipment installation, complete plant relocation, equipment alignment, and structural steel and rigging capabilities! From process piping installation and air pollution reduction systems to waste and water treatment equipment, we have the experience to ensure that your project is successful..

    Contact us today or request a quote online, and our team will work with you to fulfill your industrial needs!

  7. Water & Wastewater System Processes

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    Click to ExpandWater-&-Wastewater-System-Processes” data-lazy-src=

    Water Treatment and Wastewater Treatment processes are significantly different from each other.  This article will explain both and demonstrate some of the differences.

    Water Treatment systems are typically designed to take fresh water from a body of water, well or aquifer to a storage tank.  Filters systems in combination with flocculant clarifiers and/or coagulants are used to remove sedimentation. Biocides and chlorine treatment may be added to control bacteria and biological microbes.  Additional chemicals may be added to balance PH levels.

    Wastewater processes, on the other hand, require extensive additional treatment, which involves screening, filtration, aeration and chemical additive equipment.  There has been significant new technology involving optimization of the treatment process for both of the solid and liquid components in Wastewater systems.

    Waco has been on the forefront of correctly implementing these new engineered designs.  The combination of advanced technology and Waco’s construction expertise has provided vitally important environmental improvements to both Water and Wastewater treatment systems.  These are the challenges facing today’s growing municipalities, counties and industrial manufacturers charged with Water and Wastewater facility management.  We will explain what systems Waco currently constructs and how this is benefiting our communities, parks, waterways and wildlife management areas.

    Water Treatment:

    Fresh Water – Pump Stations:    These facilities are typically installed to increase the amount of water required for a certain municipality or county’s system.  Most require a large holding tank of fresh water, large pumps and a piping system.  Typically, Pump Stations receive water that has previously been treated. In some cases, chlorine might be added or additional chemical treatment for ph control may be required.  The main function of a Pump Station is to maintain water pressure and water capacity.

    Waco has installed many of these Pump Stations throughout Virginia and has a solid reputation for competitively bidding and completing this work ahead of schedule.  We have a dedicated team that works exclusively on these types of projects.  We understand the means and methods used to install the equipment and ensure the proper scheduling of the work.  We understand the construction process, how to properly install the equipment and schedule the work.  We can foresee potential problems and bring them to the attention of the owner before they delay the project or incur additional expense.  We have warehouse facilities capable of storing long lead time parts and equipment, further maintaining our ability to keep the project on schedule.

    Waste Water Treatment

    Types of Water & Wastewater Treatment Facilities being constructed

    • Odor Control Stations
    • Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants
    • Industrial Onsite Wastewater Treatment Facilities

    Odor Control Stations:

    Sewage treatment facilities can be located in densely populated areas.  It is critical that the facility operates with the least amount of released odors as possible.  Odor control is performed with many methods, but the most commonly used is a Bio-Scrubber system.  This system gathers vapors from the wet well using industrial fans, and adds chemicals and water to the vapors which are then sent through a bio filter system. These tanks and filters collect enough of the hydrogen sulfide gas so that any discharge out the stack has a minimal amount of odor.
    Recent projects;

    Municipal Wastewater Treatment Facility

    Main processes for cleaning Wastewater

    Physical – This involves large screens, centrifuges, clarifiers, aeration or blower air, Nano membranes or filter media types and reverse osmosis.

    Chemical – This involves treating the water with chemicals such as lime, bleach/chlorine, hypochlorite, ozone or several other types of disinfectant.

    Biological – naturally occurring microbes or organic matter that breaks down the pathogens or wastes into components that can be further treated with less chemicals required. Anaerobic Digestion process.

    Newer Technologies – UV Light

    GoalTo separate the solids from the liquids

    Liquids typically go through a multi stage filtering and aeration process. Chemicals are added along the way until the wastewater is considered fresh potable water and suitable for discharge back into the environment.

    Solids will go through a more involved filter pressing and heating process to drive more liquid out of the solid and make it into what is commonly called a “cake”. Once it gets to this stage it is a biosolid or sewage sludge.   An anaerobic digestion process uses naturally occurring bacteria to convert organic matter (sewage sludge) into methane and carbon dioxide. These components methane and CO2 are often referred to as Biogas.  The methane can be burned off using a thermal oxidizer, or it can be used in a combustion process to convert to a useful energy source for operating segments of the Wastewater Treatment facility.

    The biosolids are further chemically treated until the level of pathogens has been reduced to an allowable limit set by EPA and other agencies.  This final product (ammonia/nitrogen rich solids) can then either be used on soils for agricultural purposes or for reclamation sites or landfill cover.  The current breakdown of biosolids application in the US is – Agricultural – 42%, Landfill or reclamation soil – 43%, and Incineration – 15%

    Industrial Onsite Wastewater Treatment Facilities

    Many industrial manufacturers are required to pre-treat their chemical discharge before sending it to a municipal or county wastewater treatment plant.  Waco’s long history of experience working in industrial plants and our combined wastewater capabilities allow us to provide a combined approach that many other contractors cannot offer.

    Experience

    Waco has the ability to perform major upgrades to existing operational wastewater treatment facilities.  We have an extensive completed project list and over 40 years of experience in this segment of the construction business. Our jobs range from minor equipment change outs of $50,000 to large $10 million to $18 million projects involving installation of entire new buildings with filtering and chemical processing equipment.  We specialize in increasing the capacity of a wastewater treatment facility, or constructing components to bring an existing facility into compliance with new water regulation codes, or for reissuance of permits, such as the Virginia Pollution Discharge Elimination System (VPDES).
    All this work can be done while the facility is operating. Coordinating with plant operators and engineers is critical, especially when the final connections between the older system components are made with newly installed systems.  Other factors such as stormwater control measures and modifications to roadways are elements that must be considered before implementation of any construction process.

    Conclusion

    Water and Wastewater treatment facilities will continue to see increasing demands.  Waco incorporates these new technologies into the project, and has the ability to implement those requirements in a coordinated construction process.  We work with the top Water and Wastewater treatment engineering firms, and invite you to review our past projects or contact a reference from our extensive list of clients.

    Recent projects:

    Huguenot Road Pump Station
    Ridge Road Pump Station
    Town of Crew 
    Vent station overhaul at Creighton Road
    Incinerator Upgrades for Wastewater Treatment Facility
    Maintenance Cost and Odor Reduction at Waste Treatment Facility

    Click here for more information about Waco’s Water and Wastewater Treatment capabilities.

    Contact Us for more information or Request a Quote