H2O'C Engineering

Gladstone, MO Projects

Water Treatment and Distribution System Evaluations;
Remediation of Main Breaks

Water Treatment and Distribution System Assessments

A comprehensive study of the Gladstone water treatment plant and distribution system was undertaken to address periodic water quality complaints of cloudy and discolored water. Consumer complaints were generally voiced after main flushing or when main breaks suspended matter which had accumulated in the inverts of the distribution mains.

Gladstone had also been confronted with an excessive number of main breaks — over four times the national average (24 breaks per 100 miles per year). Gladstone was averaging 100 breaks per 100 miles per year.

Evaluations were conducted to determine the causes and effect remediation of main breaks. To assist in this effort, a distribution system hydraulic model was developed to predict the system pressures, flows and travel times.

Recommendations for Treatment Plant Operation

To reduce filter breakthrough and post-precipitation, the filter media was replaced and filter flows moderated. Finished water pH was further reduced by additional recarbonation.

Recommendations for Reducing the Rate of Main Breakage

  • Remove the downtown water tower from service.
  • Reduce high pressures in distribution system by establishing a second pressure zone.
  • Provide surge protection.

Surge Protection: Install and evaluate surge suppressors at three locations with a history of breakage where the pipes are not particularly old.

map showing main breaks

References

Mr. Don Dickerson
Superintendent of Water
Water Treatment Plant
913 NW 44th Terrace
Gladstone, MO 64116
dond@gladstone.mo.us

Main blockage

Relevance

  • Frequency of Main Breaks; System Water Losses
  • Treated and Distributed Water Quality
  • Hydraulic Model
  • Filter Media Encrustation