Scope

The Transgrid Sewage Pump Station project in Eastern Creek, Australia, represents a long-term initiative aimed at resolving wastewater management within a critical electrical transmission yard. The core scope QMAX was presented with involved the design, approval, construction, installation and commissioning of a compact sewage pump station to transport sewerage from the yard to a designated Sydney Water connection point. This project required extensive collaboration with consultants to navigate the complexities of Sydney Water’s approval processes, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. The chosen pump station design features a 1.8-meter diameter and 5-meter depth, an integrated valve chamber and an extended coverslab. The extended coverslab serves as a crucial platform for housing the pump station’s controller and a chemical dosing system. The inclusion of the chemical dosing system is a vital component of the scope, designed to mitigate potential odour issues at the discharge point, ensuring environmental and community considerations are addressed. The system includes Sulzer Piranha grinder pumps, selected for their proven reliability in handling critical wastewater applications, guaranteeing consistent and efficient operation within the sensitive transmission yard environment.

Challenges

Installing a sewage pump station within an active electrical transmission yard presented numerous unique challenges. One of the primary hurdles is ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment during construction and ongoing maintenance. The proximity to high-voltage electrical equipment requires strict adherence to safety protocols and procedures, mitigating the risk of electrical hazards. The QMAX team implemented rigorous safety protocols, including detailed risk assessments and specialised training for all personnel, to address these electrical hazards. Obtaining Sydney Water approvals was an extended process, demanding meticulous documentation and adherence to the high standards held for all Sydney Water projects. Our team managed all aspects of the Sydney Water approval process, leveraging their expertise to navigate the complex regulatory landscape and expedite approvals. The confined space of the compact pump station necessitated careful planning and execution of installation procedures, especially within the limited footprint of the transmission yard. Using our advanced 3D modeling and prefabrication techniques we were able to optimise space utilisation and ensure efficient installation within the confined area. The selection and integration of reliable equipment, such as the Sulzer Piranha grinder pumps, are crucial for minimising downtime and ensuring consistent performance, particularly in such a critical infrastructure setting. Coordinating with Transgrid’s operational requirements and minimising disruption to the transmission yard’s functions during installation and maintenance also poses a significant challenge. Our production team developed a detailed project schedule and communication plan to ensure seamless coordination with Transgrid, minimising disruption to ongoing operations. The ground conditions and existing underground utilities within the transmission yard had to be thoroughly investigated to avoid conflicts and ensure the stability of the pump station. QMAX also addressed the potential corrosion issues related to the harsh environment and the nature of the sewage being handled, demanding robust materials and protective coatings.