subject: The Filthy Truth About Sewer Main Contractors [print this page] The kinds of jobs conducted by sewer contractors have drastically improved people's way of life. Sewer pipeline networks supply the convenience of indoor plumbing and removes the need for undesirable outhouses.
Sewer construction allows contractors to use a variety of methods to install and preserve the massive network of pipeline that extends across the U.S. Installation processes and construction materials have to be in compliance with EPA rules, along with state and local laws.
The technical name for total sewer systems is sewerage. There are three kinds of sewerage used in America including sanitary, storm, and combined. Because sewer systems carry untreated waste that includes hazardous pollutants, systems are stand alone from pipeline networks used to provide domestic drinking water.
Sanitary sewers are the main type of system used in America. Sanitary sewer systems carry waste that accumulates from residential neighborhoods and industrial facilities to treatment plants where it passes through multiple filtration processes and is transformed into eco-friendly materials.
Septic tanks are typically used in rural locations and other distant areas. Basically, septic tanks are a stand alone sanitary sewer that uses an underground storage tank positioned on the property. It is self-contained and does not hook up to public sewer mains.
Combined sewer systems are designed for transporting untreated sewage and storm water runoff. Combined systems deliver efficient remedies for collecting extra storm water and conveying it to bodies of water for discharge to reduce flood risks in the area.
A significant amount of analysis and planning is needed when developing sewer systems. Technical engineers have to accurately calculate the flow rate of wastewater to establish the correct size of pipes required for the job.
In most situations, contractors use subsurface utility engineering SUE to receive 3D maps of the job site. SUE is a highly helpful method that assists contractors identify previously installed pipes and utility systems. Knowing specific locations helps to reduce potential for breaking pipes. In turn, this reduces workplace accidents and can prevent job delays.
Once installed pipes are recognized, contractors start preparing the construction site by clearing and grading the land. Next, trenches are excavated in preparation of putting in pipe sections. Once pipes are positioned into trenches, contractors perform multiple tests to ensure structural integrity and make certain sewer pipes are leak-free. Afterwards, employees back-fill trenches and restore the property to its original condition.
Sewer main systems consist of trunk pipes, branch pipes, and multiple components that are attached to pipes. Municipal sewer systems also include interceptors that connect multiple trunk lines to branch lines in order to broaden the system.
Nearly all public sewer systems use a gravity-powered system to convey raw sewage downhill. When systems are installed in regions with low elevations, contractors have to set up lift stations to artificially increase the land.
Elevating the terrain provides a semi-quasi gravitational pull system. Lift stations help to transport waste downhill until it gets to another gravity-powered system that pushes waste to treatment facilities.
Sewage passes through multiple filtration processes at treatment facilities. In regard to public systems, the Environmental Protection Agency necessitates that pipes include oil and water separators to commence the filtration process as sewage travels through the system.
Every aspect of sewer systems necessitates precision engineering and planning to guarantee toxic contaminants are not discharged into the atmosphere. Every component of the system must be synchronized to make certain waste is safely transported to treatment facilities.
Even though sewer construction is not glamorous work there is growing need for licensed contractors. Many towns in the United States are faced with upgrading antiquated systems that require total restoration. This sector of sewer construction is expected to encounter job growth of nearly 20 percent within a few years.
Other career opportunities include technical engineers, project managers, heavy equipment operators, laborers, and office workers.
Anyone that needs sewer contractors should take time to locate a reliable company that is experienced in the specific type of installation process. Contractors are required to have appropriate business licenses, work permits, and insurance coverage. It's always advisable to find contractors that excel in construction safety and have certificates in EPA, OSHA, and HAZMAT protocols.
