While the Aeration Tanks and Final Settling Tanks project brought new tanks to the Hartford WPCF, the condition of the original 40+ year old tanks needs to be addressed.  This project, the first of a series of planned projects, will address immediate concerns with concrete condition, controls, piping, water systems and large compressors. 

The existing compressors from the 1970’s are no longer suited to nitrogen removal, which requires a significantly greater degree of control over the treatment process than could possibly be imagined when originally designed.  One current compressor consumes approximately 40% of the plant’s total power use. The three current compressors each have a 3,000 horsepower motor (think of 15 Ford F-150s lined up next to each other running full speed at once).  All will be replaced with much smaller and more efficient 1,250 horsepower compressors.  There will be times when two compressors will be needed, but major savings in electricity will occur every day – saving our ratepayers significantly in electrical costs. 

The current computer controls will also be upgraded to modern technology to allow operational staff to optimize the process quality while minimizing electrical usage.  This project will also rehabilitate existing concrete in the channels connecting the aeration tanks to the settling tanks.  Additionally, the BNR II project will completely update the existing plant water system. 

Each day the Hartford WPCF uses about 5 million gallons of water to assist in the various treatment processes.  To put this volume in perspective, the average person use about 100 gallons of water per day. Having more efficient and appropriately sized equipment will not only save energy, but provide for better treatment.  Using treated plant water also benefits the environment and helps reduce costs by eliminating the need to use drinking water.