Last week, I visited Massachusetts for a Pump Systems Optimization course hosted by Hydraulic Institute/Pump Systems Matter, WEG, and A.W. Chesterton Company at the Chesterton Training Center Winchester, MA.

The day course was one of the best I’ve attended. We learned just how much energy savings can be obtained when the pumping systems are working efficiently and at their Best Efficiency Point (BEP).

There are many different factors that can affect the pump’s performance. Running your plant with reliability in mind helps the pump system run more efficiently. The options to consider when building an energy efficiency reliable pump system were presented in an easy to understand way… you should consider attending the next course!

During the presentation I was amazed at the engagement of the people from Deer Island.  Knowing I had a tour of their plant the following day, I was impressed with how they presented real world questions and discussion points. It was interesting and informative! During the break, I discovered that I would be touring the facility with one of the most knowledgeable experts. Even though I didn’t get to meet him at the PSO course personally, I was excited about the tour.

Friday morning, we went to The Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Facility. This facility was built as a result of the Clean Water Act. Before this plant was built, raw sewage was dumped into the ocean destroying the shellfish beds. Action was needed.

We met with David Shea in his office and a day of pump learning began!  It was one of my favorite adventures because I got to watch someone who is passionate about his job! As we walked through the facility (along with Dave, the intern from Massachusetts Maritime Academy), David quizzed us on the process equipment. I realized how much of the PSO course was applicable to maintaining the facility.

There were so many different styles of pumps within the facility. Check out the entire system here!

The system includes HUGE intake pumps that bring in sewage from 43 cities and more than 2 million people surrounding Boston and very small positive displacement pumps administering chemicals to the process.

The tour begins with many questions. “What kind of pump is that? What horsepower motor is that?” My excitement about the tour increased as I really was learning and absorbing all the information!

I received some education about sump pumps, fire pumps, crane systems and pump removal, reading a name plate, split seals, flow metering, gauges, drives, gate valves, check valves, odor control systems, compressors, expansion joints, piping, grinder pumps, electric motors, progressive cavity pumps, pump replacement for more efficient use of space and energy, pump control rooms, digester tanks, venting, aerators, gaskets, coatings, lubrication systems, HVAC systems, fans, wind turbines, screens, 25hp to 3500 hp motors, control panels, safety switches, breakers – we covered it all!

David had deep knowledge about the entire pumping SYSTEM! He runs a reliable and well-maintained plant. The next time you take a ride on the Boston Harbor look toward Deer Island and say thank you for the amazing facility manager taking care of your water and waste!