UV Disinfection System
2021 Engineering Excellence State Finalist
Entering Firm: Baxter & Woodman Inc.
Client: City of Milton
The City of Milton faced a steep challenge in treating wastewater in its service area. Because it was discharging to the nearby Rock River, the city used a substantial amount of chlorine to treat the water. That chlorine use caused early failure of the pumps and continuous replacement would be extremely expensive. The city needed a new treatment option.
Baxter & Woodman recommended a UV disinfection system. The installation costs are less than the continuing maintenance costs from chlorine and provide the same level of treatment. Existing pipes and hydraulics complicated the plan and required the design team to pivot to in-pipe UV lights. An automatic bulb cleaning system was included to minimize invasive maintenance and ensure that the system is working at peak efficiency.
Other system requirements added complications. The entire system required reorientation to provide space for the UV lights in pipes and connecting existing pumps and hydraulics. On top of that, the system was not expected to run from October to April so a way to bypass the disinfection portion had to be designed.
The design team’s innovative work provided a sustainable and cheaper solution for the City of Milton.
