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Note that there is always at least one operator at the treatment plant during regular hours. The operators are generally willing (and usually able) to help solve problems, so don't hesitate to ask if they're free to help out.
Starting the pilot plant
Check with the operators to see if it is permissible to run the pilot plant.
Check that all the cords, including the power strips, are plugged in.
Check with the plant operators to make sure they haven't turned off parts of the Filtration Plant for maintenance. The operators are also very helpful in figuring out what might be unplugged or turned off.
Starting the alum pump
If the alum pump has been switched on, but no alum is flowing (i.e., the corresponding box in the process controller reads "0" mg/L):
- Go to configuration in the process controller.
- In the top left corner there are methods, files, etc. buttons, and an icon that looks like an open folder. Click on the folder.
- Open the Fall 2008 folder (or a newer folder).
- Open Sept 9 2008 (or any configuration that may have been saved later).
There is a leak
(/)Determine the source of the leak.
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- If the pipe connects the flocculator to the sed tank, plug the inlets with the screw caps already created. The benefit to this over just turning off the plant is that the flocculator can continue to run, since the water can leave through the weir in the flocculator which usually just handles excess flow.
Dry off the pipe to the best of your ability with a towel. When the pipe is completely dry - this is pretty This is essential, since as the caulk will not set properly if it is wet. Wait at least a few hours or a day to ensure that the surface is dry. - Caulk , then caulk the pipe, paying special attention to the bottom of the seal. The cure time is usually 24-48 hours, so leave the pipes plugged for this duration of time.
- If water continues to leak, make sure that the leak is not coming from another location, and repeat the above steps if necessary.
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If the flocs are white in color and float,
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Check the flow rate into the pilot plant by looking at the digital monitor, located next to the wall facing Cornell University's Flocculator. If it is much lower than 23 gal/min:
- Toggle the pump on and off. If this doesn't work:
- The pump that drives the water through the plant is may not be operating properly. There may be objects caught in the screen (e.g. leaves) or there may be electrical issues. Clean the screen on the pump or toggle the pump on and off a few times. (As always, ask one of the operators if you're unsure of what to do.)
- The The alum dose is too high for the turbidity of the incoming water may be fairly low, and the alum dose may be too high. Lower the alum dose slightly:
- Open process controller.
- Go to the Configuration tab.
- Click "Edit Rules."
- In the menu on the left-and side, go to "alum dose not increment" and change the value.
If the effluent water is turbid and does not contain large flocs, but the water is not unsually white, the alum dose probably is not high enough. Increase the alum dose in Process Controller to account for the increased turbidity. (See above.) This is likely to occur if there has been a lot of rain.)