The Regional Water Resource Agency (RWRA) hired us to design a new UV disinfection process and other miscellaneous upgrades for its western Max Rhoads WWTP. RWRA had previously used sodium hypochlorite and sodium bisulfite for chlorination and dechlorination but wished to move away from the maintenance and operation demands of that method of disinfection. These improvements were in conjunction with similar upgrades at the eastern, David W. Hawes facility. The project had an expedited design schedule to meet Kentucky state revolving fund (SRF) requirements.

A new UV disinfection system was designed to treat a peak hourly flow of 38.9 million gallons per day (MGD). The facility’s average daily flow is 9.2 MGD, but multiple banks of UV lamps allow for modulation with variable flows. The UV channel is enclosed in a new structure, providing weather protection for the equipment and operators. The structure layout was considerate of site footprint and maintenance access required inside the structure.

RWRA selected to use WEDECO Duron UV equipment, a low-pressure high output system with inclined banks. The integrated lifting device with each bank allowed for easy access, however, lamps can be replaced while the modules remain in the UV channel. Ballasts are separate from the modules and installed in an adjacent, conditioned room in the UV disinfection structure, allowing for easier maintenance access.

We successfully met the tight design schedule for this project and the corresponding project at David W. Hawes WWTP that included three draft submittals and a final submittal in a period of 4 months. We were able to meet these deadlines with well-organized and thoughtful project management, a committed team, and frequent communication with RWRA.